What are the 10 Benefits of Psyllium Husk: A Nature's Boon for Digestive Problems

Psyllium Plant

10 Health Secrets of Psyllium Husk (Plantago ovata) that makes it a boon for Digestive system

People all over the world mostly have suffered indigestion at some point of time in their life. When digestion is not good, it leads to many other health issues that are mostly connected to our digestive health, but people cannot make out because the problems come up in other areas of the body. It could be migraines, skin problems, arthritis or even lack of proper food absorption in the body.

Here we will talk about a natural medicine that works like magic to our digestive system. The name is 'Plantago ovata', which is also known as 'Psyllium'. It is found in Mediterranean region, central and southern parts of Asia and Northern America. This outer cover or the husk of the seeds of this medicinal plant is a good source of dietary fiber, and is used from ancient times to improve digestion and for other stomach related ailments.

It is commonly known as 'Isapgel' or 'Fybogel' in the United Kingdom, 'Isapgol' in India and Psyllium[1] in the United States. In Sanskrit it is called Ashwakarna.

Uses in day-to-day cooking

It is used as a thickener in ice-creams, soups, cakes etc. Psyllium fiber is used as a fortification ingredient in edible flour. It is used in Ketogenic, Vegan and Gluten-free diet. It is also a good source of dietary fiber. It is non-acidic and has cooling properties.

Commercial History of Psyllium Husk:

The History of Psyllium dates back to 1500 BC. It was introduced in the American Market in the 1970s, as a natural body cleansing substance. Later it gained popularity as a rich source of natural dietary fiber supplement and started being sold in the natural food shops and stores. Though earlier it was discovered by the Kellogg in 1920, but it could not stand the expectations of the customers, as it used to be for other fiber rich food supplements of the same company available in the market then.

Natural Qualities of Psyllium

Husk Psyllium Husk is derived from the outer cover of its seeds that have a capacity to absorb ten times more water than its quantity and becomes a gel like substance.

Health Secrets of Psyllium Husk

Human Digestive Tract

It controls blood pressure and keeps cholesterol in check, by restraining its absorption in the body, thus keeping a healthy heart. If one teaspoon twice a day is consumed with just warm water or milk. Please note, read about how to Consume Psyllium Husk and Caution while using Psyllium Husk in this article below.
Psyllium husk helps to reduce weight by lowering the appetite.
Helps to keep blood sugar in control, if taken a teaspoon full, 20 minutes before meals. In case of hemorrhoids or piles, where blood starts passing from stools, it can prevent it to get adverse; where surgeries become necessary. Psyllium does this by keeping stools soft due to its fibrous and water retaining nature.
It is used to control diarrhea or loose motions with a teaspoon full once/ twice a day mixed with normal water or yogurt.
It is a good prebiotic substance, as it slowly ferments and helps to boost the formation of healthy bacteria in the colon.
It is a good Prebiotic with a slow fermentation process. It helps to boost development of healthy bacteria in the colon.
A healthy gut means a good immune system. One teaspoonful twice a week with juice, water or milk is sufficient for normal detoxification of the body
Psyllium husk also helps to remove toxic heavy metals which enter the digestive system through food or water, it thus acts as a detoxifier for the gut, colon and overall digestive system. Also relieves from acidity and heart-burn.
A very good remedy for constipation for all ages, especially people above the age of 55, who face constipation due to slow working of the digestive system. Good, if taken a teaspoon in a day mixed with normal or warm water, fruit juice or warm milk, three times a week.
It is easily available in the form of powder, husk and capsules online; in any general medicine store; naturopathy or herbal medicine stores around the world, both in its original form and with flavor.

How to consume Psyllium Husk

*Suggestive Image only.

If consumed directly without or with very less water, Psyllium Husk, can choke the throat. Therefore, the best way is to stir a teaspoon full or if anyone is using it for the first time can start with half a teaspoon, and add it with a glass of water, juice, milk, yogurt etc. and allow it to stand for 10 minutes to soften-up a bit and then consume. Intake of more than 5 days at a stretch should be avoided. It is good to keep a gap of 10 days. Water consumption should be increased throughout the day, when taking Psyllium husk, as it absorbs a lot of water from the intestines to promote healthy and good bacteria in the colon.

Caution while using Psyllium Husk

In pregnancy, kidney disease, stomach ulcer or in case a patient is using any other medicine for the same problem, they should consume psyllium husk only after consulting their doctor. Children below the age of 10 should not be given Psyllium husk without medical advice. Excess or prolonged intake of Psyllium husk may have side effects.

Conclusion

To sum up, Psyllium Husk has enormous health benefits. Popularly known as a natural laxative all over the world, it is now known for having many health secrets and uses not known to many of us in the past. If consumed in appropriate quantities for different health problems, it can prevent or reduce many gastrointestinal issues. Psyllium husk is safe, natural and comes in reasonable price. It is a better option to keep digestive ailments at bay. If taken in limited amounts or as prescribed by doctors, it can be a part of everyone's life, as a routine dietary fiber supplement, consumed twice or thrice a week or can be included in regular diet, thus contributing to a healthy lifestyle.