Psyllium Husk Health Facts
Psyllium husk is the seed coat of the sand plantain plant (Plantago psyllium L.). The plant is native to the Mediterranean region and was introduced by the Spaniards to the western United States and British Columbia, and naturalized there and in the northeastern quadrant of the United States and parts of Canada to the north. The seeds and the husk are cultivated for use in nutritional supplements designed to aid the digestive system.
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Digestive Aid
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Psyllium husk's most common use is as a laxative, due to its lubricating qualities. Psyllium seed is also used to relieve chronic diarrhea by absorbing excess water in the digestive system. It is available in commercial products such as Metamucil and cereals, as well as being available in whole raw form in some stores and online, particularly health and alternative medicine sources.
Lowers Cholesterol
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The high-fiber qualities of psyllium husk contribute to lowering cholesterol levels when eaten in sufficient quantities. The American Heart Association has given its approval for commercial products containing psyllium to be labeled as having this benefit.
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Additional Benefits
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There is some evidence that psyllium husk may reduce the risk of getting colon cancer, increase gas in the intestines, reduce hemorrhoids, alleviate bladder and kidney problems, help lower blood glucose in diabetics, help to make labor easier by dilating the cervix, and help dieters lose more weight.
Antibiotic Properties
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Psyllium is also manufactured for use as an antibiotic and sold as a cough syrup in many parts of the world. In Argentina it is brewed and strained, then chilled and used as eyedrops to reduce inflammation. In India it is used to treat rheumatism and gout in a mixture of oil and vinegar. Old World remedies used psyllium seeds in a poultice to treat wounds and sores.
Safety and Warnings
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Psyllium can cause allergic reactions in some people. Asthma attacks, sneezing and runny noses with swelling (rhinitis) and nausea can occur. Although the seeds are not poisonous, eating seeds that haven't been soaked and softened can cause an upset stomach, or in some cases, diarrhea.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Markos Cosimi Cannata
