Benefits Of “Psyllium”
Plantago ovata
Search this site
 |
Genus: Plantago L.
Species: Plantago psyllium L.
Also known as: Ispaghula,
plantago ovata, plantain, fleaseed
Parts used: Seeds
|

Psyllium swells up within the gut, creating a feeling of fullness which results in a depression of appetite. The seeds swell only in the presence of water; and helps lower harmful cholesterol.
For centuries traditional Chinese physicians have used the psyllium husks to treat diarrhea, hemorrhoids, constipation, urinary problems and most recently,high blood pressure.
STUDIES:
This is how an Italian study explained how psyllium worked to help obese subjects lose a lot of weight in a very short period of time:
- Four to six psyllium capsules daily or one tablespoon of bulk powder in 12 fluid ounces of water should help a person to lose weight.
Psyllium is among the safest, gentle laxatives which earned it a place in herbal healing centuries ago. Just add a little sweetening, coloring, and flavoring - Wha-La - you have the recipe for Metamucil.
Psyllium is often called plantain. Not to be confused with the other plantain; a palm like tree that produces a fruit similar to bananas.
Psyllium seeds are small, glossy and dark brown that they resemble a flea. It is odorless and almost tasteless, but it does have a gritty texture which some people find unpleasant.
As with all herbal nutrition supplements, psyllium supplements should only be used in amounts typically recommended for medicinal purposes and you should always consult with a health professional first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking prescription medications. Let your doctor know if you are experiencing symptoms for which the herb is being used do not improve in two weeks.
CHEMICAL & NUTRIENT CONTENT:
Aucubine, enzymes, fats, glycosides, mucilage and protein.
GROWING:
Psyllium is an annual herb that grows to a height of 12 - 18 inches. It produces white flowers in the summer that give way to a small brown seed pod. If the seed pods are not harvested before they break open, the wind will scatter the seeds; which could be a major problem, considering each pod contains up to 15,000 seeds. This plant grows aggressively and for this reason it is not usually grown as a garden herb. Don’t grow it.
SUGGESTIONS:
Other herbs containing laxative actions include aloe vera, basil, buckthorn, burdock, cascara sagrada, comfrey, dandelion, licorice, purslane, rhubarb, and senna.
|
|