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Psyllium: Psyllium Seeds
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Psyllium is sold as dried whole seeds, powders, wafers, and liquids. An average dose is one rounded teaspoon (5 to 6g) of powdered psyllium mixed with at least eight ounces of water or other liquid, taken at meal times. Effects on the bowels are usually noticeable within one to two days.
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Psyllium is a bulk-forming laxative and is high in both fiber and mucilage. Psyllium seeds contain 10-30% mucilage. The laxative properties of psyllium are due to the swelling of the husk when it comes in contact with water. This forms a gelatinous mass that keeps feces hydrated and soft, provided it is taken with sufficient water. The resulting bulk stimulates a reflex contraction of the walls of the bowel, followed by emptying.1
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Psyllium is an annual growing to a height of 16 inches, with narrow leaves and clusters of minute white-brown flowers. The three species that produce psyllium grow variously throughout southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia, especially in India, and are extensively cultivated. They are propagated from seed in spring and require plenty of sun. The seeds are harvested when ripe in late summer and early autumn.
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Psyllium is an annual plant that is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. It grows as talla s 16 inches high. It has green leaves and small whitish brown flowers. The seeds are picked when they become ripe in the fall or late summer.
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Psyllium seeds are coated with a substance called mucilage that swells or "bulks up" when exposed to water. This extra volume stimulates the movement of material through the bowel. In addition, the moist, gummy mucilage lubricates the lining of the intestine. Both United States health authorities and the German Federal Health Agency's Commission E, established in 1978 to independently review and evaluate scientific literature and case studies pertaining to herb and plant medications, approve the use of psyllium to treat constipation.
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Psyllium seeds contain a type of fiber called mucilage. When in the digestive tract, mucilage absorbs water and swells. This makes stools bulkier, and it triggers contraction of the colon walls, leading to bowel movements.
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Psyllium Seeds