Condition
Treatment Support
cholesterol lowering
Application
seed husk mixed with water
Psyllium Husk
(Plantago ovata)
Also know as Ispaghula
Botanical Information
Psyllium comes from a large variety of plantain species. The seed husks and whole seeds are both used.
Working with Psyllium Husk
Part(s) Used
Seeds
Herb Forms
Tablet, capsule, bulk seed and husk.
Psyllium seeds and husks are primarily thought of as a gentle bulk laxative, though they have been found effective for diarrhea as well. They are used for chronic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids, and to lower cholesterol levels. Though smaller, the seeds of the common northern plantains, Plantago lanceolata and P. major can be used similarly to psyllium–harvested from the abundant seed heads, ground into powder, and added to water or food.
Psyllium seeds and seed husks are found in many bowel-cleansing formulas, sometimes with flax seed, fenugreek, burdock, red clover, and other cleansing herbs.
Psyllium Husk has a taste of SWEET and a temperature of NEUTRAL.
Cautions
Take with at least eight ounces of water. Do not use this herb is you have a bowel obstruction. If you are taking any drugs, take them one hour before you take psyllium.
Conditions treated with Psyllium Husk
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
bowel toner
Application
mixed with water
Condition
Treatment Support
laxative
Application
seed or seed husk mixed with water
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
