herbs - Psyllium (Plantago ispaghula, Plantago ovata)

What is it?

Psyllium, isphagula or plantago is a plant that is both native and cultivated in Iran and India. The seeds and seed husks are used medicinally.

Action

Psyllium seeds are high in both insoluble and soluble fibre (mucilage). They contain between 10-30% mucilage. These fibres have a bulking and gel-forming action in the bowel when water is also present, which encourages peristalsis and bowel emptying, making it a gentle but effective laxative. These fibres can also absorb and carry excess dietary fat and cholesterol out of the bowel.

Uses

Our experts recommend Psyllium/ ispaghula for the following disorders:

• Constipation
• High Cholesterol

Other information

Psyllium has been also been used in research to help people with Diabetes (only under medical supervision), Diarrhoea, Diverticulitis, Irritable bowel syndrome (however it does not work for some people), Haemorrhoids and Ulcerative colitis. Some people also use fibres such as Psyllium to help with weight management as it gives a feeling of fullness and slows down the absorption of fat and sugar.

Supplements are available as seeds, husks, powder or capsules and must be taken with plenty of water.

Cautions

• It is advisable to start taking Psyllium at small doses initially to let the bowel adjust to an increase in fibre. It is equally important to drink plenty of water. This advice applies to all fibre supplements.



• People with chronic Constipation and bowel obstructions should not use Psyllium or fibre supplements and should consult medical advice immediately.



• Some people with irritable bowel syndrome find that Psyllium worsens their symptoms and are advised to eat more fruit and vegetables instead to obtain the soluble fibre they need.
• Generally, there are no other side effects or contra-indications from using Psyllium herbal supplements as long as plenty of water is also consumed.



• When this article was written there were no well-known negative drug interactions with Psyllium.

This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk). The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.