Amazing Health Benefits of Psyllium Husk

Psyllium husks, sometimes also referred to as ispaghula or isabgol are parts of the seeds of a plant named plantago ovata, which is native to India and Pakistan, with the main cultivation area being north India. The health benefits of psyllium husks are universally acknowledged, with some examples being providing relief from symptoms of constipation, mild diarrhea etc. These have a high fiber content and thus are the foremost choice of people who are on a low carb diet, since these make up for the lack of carbohydrates, while also reducing appetite minus the over stimulation of the nervous system, which is generally the case with other specific diet plans.

Psyllium Husk

Psyllium husks are used by pharmaceutical firms across the world, majorly for use in formulating constipation remedies, an example being fybogel in the united kingdom. The united states is by a wide margin the biggest importer of psyllium husks, with over 60 percent of it going to pharmaceutical firms. Although generally available in the form of capsules, granules and liquid, these husks are also commonly consumed in powder or wafer form, with these being a part of alternative or homely treatment methods in large parts of southern Asia.

Benefits of Psyllium Husks

• Psyllium husks are known to aid in the reduction of high blood cholesterol ( hypercholesterolemia)
  
• The husks are also used as a food thickener, generally in ice creams and frozen deserts
• These aid in weight loss by enhancing the sensation of fullness in a person, thus reducing appetite
• Psyllium husks improve the general intestinal health and also cleanse the body’s internal system
• These also have glucose reducing properties, ideal for benefiting diabetics
• These are also known to provide relief from ailments such as colitis, diverticulosis and hemorrhoids

psyllium husk

Psyllium Husks – A Major Ingredient In Over The Counter Laxatives

Although psyllium husks have multiple health benefits, the biggest amongst them is their ability to provide relief from constipation and ensure regular bowel movements. As a result, these are widely used as an ingredient in many over the counter laxatives. Some examples of these laxatives are,

• Metamucil
• Fiberall
• Cilium
• Maalox daily fiber therapy
• Uni-laxative

Some Facts About Psyllium Husks

• The plants from which psyllium husks are extracted ( isabgol) is a post rainy season crop. Although it has a moderate water requirement, it does require the weather to be clear, sunny and dry before harvest
• As for soil conditions, isabgol grows best on light, well drained and sandy soil. One thing to note is that the nutrient requirements of isabgol are very low
• When consumed within limits, psyllium husks have no side effects
• The ideal way of consumption of psyllium husk is drink a glass of water, then consume the husk with water or juice and then drink one more glass of water.
• These husks should be taken only 2 hours before or after consuming anything
• Psyllium husks can be combined with other fiber diets like oats, cereals and even with fruit juices for consumption