Description: Psyllium Husk has been used in Ayurvedic medicine in India and in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years both for its laxative (with warm water) and antidiarrhoeal (with cold water) action. It also has aperient, astringent, demulcent, diuretic, emollient and expectorant properties. It restores proper bowel movements by stimulating nutritional programme of digestive system and in treatment of chronic constipation, especially when the condition results from an over-tensed or over-relaxed bowel. By maintaining a higher water content within the large bowel, the husks and seeds increase the bulk of the stool, easing its passage. It should be used on its own and not combined with stimulant laxatives such as senna. A clinical trial performed in Germany in 1994 documents the efficacy of Ispaghula husk in treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is also reputed to soothe gastric inflammation, as well as urinary tract infections (UTI). Contrary to expectation, it is a useful remedy for diarrhoea. Because the seeds tend to swell and create a feeling of fullness, they can help curb appetite. Also useful for colitis, dysentery, urethritis, cystitis, ulcers, gastritis, high LDL cholesterol level and high triglycerides. In some studies high- fiber in Psyllium has improved glucose tolerance in people with Type 2 diabetes. May also inhibit intestinal organism growth. The thickened jelly absorbs toxins and bacteria. As a demulcent it is useful in coughs and colds and other pharyngeal disorders, particularly for children.

Helps to reduce risk of heart attack by decreasing serum cholesterol through proper excretion of bile acids. Also helps in eliminating accumulated toxic, chemicals and excessive waste products from the body.

In several studies conducted, researchers found that seriously obese people who took few teaspoons of Psyllium with water before meals lost more weight than those who did not.

Recommended Dosage: 5 g to 10 g seeds. Sufficient fluids must be taken with the seeds, e.g., 150 ml water to 5 g seeds. The dose should be taken half hour to one hour after taking other medication. Consult a physician if diarrhoea lasts for more than 3-4 days.

Contraindication: This herb is not recommended if you are pregnant. Always take Psyllium products with plenty of liquids - otherwise they can possibly cause, rather than relieve, constipation. Psyllium can also dilute digestive enzymes, and is best taken between meals (especially before bed or first thing in the morning) rather than with food at mealtimes.