How to Take Psyllium Husks

Psyllium husk is recommended if you are following a low carb diet, the herb will increase your fiber intake.

Herbs offer all-natural health benefits. One herb called psyllium has become one of the top recommendations for those who use low-carb diets due to its high fiber content and dietary factors. Psyllium is derived from an herb called plantain; psyllium is the husk of the seed. Many people find that this herb offers relief for a number of problems including: irritable bowel syndrome, weight control, constipation and high cholesterol.

Things You'll Need

• 100 percent pure psyllium husk
• Warm water
• Spoon

Instructions

1. Purchase 100 percent pure psyllium husk at your local herb store.

2. Mix psyllium husk into warm water. A daily recommended dose would be ½ tsp. of psyllium husk per 1 cup of warm water every morning and every evening. If you are taking psyllium as a weight loss supplement drink the mixture 30 minutes before meals.

3. Stir the mixture and drink immediately. The combination quickly becomes thick and if you wait too long it will become difficult to swallow.

4. Drink plenty of water after you have finished the psyllium mixture. Psyllium has high levels of fiber, which will soak up the fluids in your body. In order to prevent dehydration drink six glasses of water throughout the rest of the day.

5. Continue using the product adjusting the amounts to better suit your needs. If your body adapts to the psyllium husk, you can increase the daily dose to 1 tsp. per 1 cup of warm water or you could take another daily dose in the middle of the day.

Tips & Warnings

• If you find the mixture too difficult to drink, consider taking psyllium capsules. There are also products that contain smaller dosages of psyllium, like Metamucil.

• You can mix psyllium in juice or soy milk. It can also be added to soups, sauces, or smoothies.

• If you are taking psyllium for a medical condition as prescribed by a doctor, follow his instructions.

• Start with a low dose if you have never taken psyllium before, then slowly increase the amount. Pay close attention to how your body reacts to the herb. If you start out using too much you could become constipated and dehydrated.

• Psyllium husks are usually very safe to take. But it is always best to consult with your doctor when taking other prescribed medications to ensure proper absorption.

References

• Alternative Doctor, LLC; Psyllium; Dr. Lloyd; May 2000
• Herbwisdom.com; Psyllium Husk Benefits
• Yerba Prima; Psyllium Husks: Benefits and Usage; Peter Finkl; 2002