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Summary:
A natural remedy for
constipation, regulates bowel functions by stimulating nutritional program
of digestive system. It contents natural fibers which are part of healthy
regimen and has ability to decrease symptoms of fatigue loss of energy and
other severe health problems. It helps
to reduce risk of heart attack by decreasing serum cholesterol through
proper excretion of bile acids.
Also helps in
eliminating accumulated toxic, chemicals and excessive waste products from
the body.
Psyllium husk is derived
from the seed of the Plantago ovata plant. Besides Plantago ovata, psyllium
is also known as Ispaghula and Isapgol. Plantago ovata is an annual herb
native to Asia, the Mediterranean region, and North Africa. Psyllium grows
in sandy and silty soils. Psyllium has a long history of use throughout the
world. Psyllium has been used in traditional medicine in the US, Europe,
India, and China. Some of the uses of psyllium in traditional medicine are
as laxative, emollient, demulcent, and diuretic.
In
a comparative study of the effects of codeine phosphate, diphenoxylate (as
Lomotil) and isapghul (as Isogel), ingested between meals, on ileostomy
output in 18 patients, Isogel produced the most viscid output. Isapghul (as
Psyllium) has also been compared with methylcellulose and sodium
carboxymethyl cellulose as a hydrophilic laxative and was found to be
superior. The effects of bran, isapghul and lactulose were also observed in
31 patients with diverticular disease. Isapghul had a significant effect on
the stool weight and increased basal motility, though all three test
substances had a laxative effect. In ayurveda the mucilaginous seeds are
used as laxative, demulcent and astringent, particularly in chronic colitis.
In modern medicine, the plant is used as a mild bulk laxative. It has also
been used in urinary infections as an ancillary treatment. No untoward
effects have been reported in the use of Isapghul in thousands of patients
taking it for many years. |
