Psyllium Husks
Natural Healing Herbs
Psyllium husks are most commonly used as a natural stool softener. It is commonly found in colon cleansing herbal formulas.
Other Names
Psyllium is also known as ispaghula, isabgol, fleawort, and fleaseed.
Appearance
This herb is made from the seeds of the Plantago Psyllium. The plant has long narrow leaves with clusters of white flowers at the top of the tall stems of the plants. The seeds are small and sandy colored. They look like fleas. That's why its sometimes called fleawort or fleaseed.
Origins
The plant is native to parts of Asia, the Mediterranean and North Africa. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine and Indian Ayurveda for many years.
Parts Used
The husks of the seeds of the Plantago Psyllium plant are used.
Medicinal Uses
Psyllium husks can be put into capsule to be taken as a supplement or ground into a powder. The husks aren't digested, but instead pass though the digestive system absorbing water along the way. The husks mix with the stool to soften it making it easier to pass.
It's a commonly used laxative. It's also soluble fiber that can be used to lower cholestrol.
It's can be used to treat:
Side Effects and Warnings
Be sure to drink plenty of water when you take this herb. The husks absorb lots of moisture and if you don't stay well hydrated it'll lead to dehydration.
Don't take this herb with prescription medication. It can interfer with the absorbtion of the medicaiton.
This herb shouldn't be taken by pregnant women.
If you found this information useful, check out my complete listing of herbs at my Herb Index. You can find a listing of ailments and their natural treatments on my Free Home Remedies page.
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