Psyllium (Plantago ovata)
Family: Plantaginaceae
English Name: Blond Psyllium, Spogel
Plant Description
- Small annual bush
- Leaves: ~15 cm long
- Flowers: Rounded with broad margins
- Inflorescence: Spindle-shaped
- Fruits: Egg-shaped, long with rounded apex and conical, lid-like appearance
Composition
- Polysaccharides, indicaine, plantagonine, tannins
Ayurvedic Properties
- Rasa (Taste): Madhura (sweet)
- Guna (Qualities): Guru (heavy), Snigdha (unctuous), Picchila (sticky)
- Veerya (Potency): Sheeta (cool)
- Vipaka (Post-Digestive Effect): Madhura (sweet)
- Dosha Effects: Pacifies Vata and Kapha
Parts Used
- Powdered seeds and husk
Recommended Dose: 6–12 g daily
Therapeutic Benefits
Digestive Health:
- Chronic constipation, amoebic and bacillary dysentery
- Diarrhea from irritant gastrointestinal conditions
- Protects gut mucosa
Respiratory Health:
- Beneficial in colds, coughs, and bronchitis
Metabolic & Cardiovascular Health:
- Lowers cholesterol
- Lowers blood glucose
- Antihypertensive
Other Benefits:
- Rheumatism, kidney disorders, urethritis
- Reduces burning, thirst, and inflammation
- Supports Vata-Kapha balance
Scientific Studies
- Laxative effect: Read NW, 1986
- Antihemorrhoidal effect: Perez-Miranda M, 1996
- Antihypertensive effect: Williamson EM et al., 1988
- Gut mucosa protection: Vahouny GB et al., 1987
- Antidiarrheal activity: Kover F, 1983
- Cholesterol-lowering activity: Leng-Peschlow E, 1989
- Glucose-lowering activity: Welsh JD et al., 1982
Safety Information
- Generally safe in pregnancy and lactation; constituents are not absorbed
- Rare hypersensitivity reactions may occur
Reference Sloka (Raja Nighantu)
“Ashwagolam Guru Swadu Snigdha Sheetam Cha Picchilam / Snehanam Mootrajananam Sleshma Nihsaranam Param / Daaha Trushnaharam Balayam Jwaraghnam Cha Atha Shashyate / Pravaahika Atisara Mada Daaha Trushana Jwaradishu / Vaata Pitta Amaaye Kaase Dowrbalye Mootra Kruchraje”
Translation: Blond psyllium is heavy, sweet, unctuous, cool, and sticky; it lubricates the body, promotes urination, removes excess doshas, relieves burning, thirst, and fever, supports strength, and is beneficial for diarrhea, inflammation, cough, and Vata-Kapha imbalances.
Psyllium Husk (Plantago ovata)
Type: Soluble dietary fiber
Forms: Powder, husk
Key Benefits
1. Digestive Health
- Constipation & Diarrhea: Bulk-forming laxative that relieves constipation and helps solidify loose stools.
- IBS & Gut Health: Reduces bloating, abdominal pain, and inflammation; supports healthy gut microbiome.
2. Metabolic & Heart Health
- Cholesterol: Lowers LDL (“bad”) cholesterol by binding it in the gut for excretion.
- Blood Sugar: Slows sugar absorption, supporting stable blood glucose levels—especially helpful for Type 2 diabetes.
- Blood Pressure: May contribute to healthy blood pressure levels.
3. Weight Management
- Satiety & Fullness: Increases feelings of fullness, reducing overall calorie intake and supporting weight management.
Mechanism of Action
- Psyllium absorbs water, forming a gel that:
- Adds bulk to stool and regulates bowel movements
- Slows digestion in the small intestine, helping nutrient absorption
- Promotes satiety and metabolic balance
Usage Guidelines
- Dose: Typically 6–12 g daily (follow product instructions)
- Fluid Intake: Drink plenty of water to prevent choking or intestinal blockage
- Start Slowly: Begin with small doses to minimize gas and bloating
Precautions
- Consult a healthcare provider before starting, especially if you have gastrointestinal obstruction, swallowing difficulties, or are on medications for diabetes or heart conditions.
- Safe for most adults; hypersensitivity is rare.