Common name for Psyllium Plantago Herb: Psyllium is commonly known as Fleaseed, plantago, psyllion, psyllios or barguthi.
Occurrence: It is commonly seen growing in Southern Europe, as well as in Northern Africa and in Southern Asia. It is also observed in most parts of New Zealand, America and Australia.
Parts used of this plant: The seeds and the leaves of the psyllium plantago plant are used in preparing medicinal preparations. Psyllium plantago seed husks dilate and become mucilaginous when wet, and is a common home remedy as a laxative. It is cultivated primarily in West Pakistan and in some parts of India.
Research indicates that plantago intake helps reduce hunger pangs and the intake of energy. The effect of psyllium on the body is due to the lengthy frame of time involved by the digestive tract for the absorption of nutrients, by bringing down the glucose and insulin reactions linked to digestion and nutrient absorption. This prolonged delay leads to the absorption of the nutrients in the small intestines and, finally, the body cells. Plantago has been recommended as a laxative for centuries and recent research has shown its efficacy in combating constipation. The seeds of the psyllium plant possess 10-30 percent mucilage. The gelatinous mass formed after the seeds have been soaked in water, causes the feces in the large intestine to get hydrated and soft. Hence, the overall volume induces a reflex contraction of the walls of the bowel, accompanied by emptying without any pain or bleeding. Nutritionists believe that psyllium is beneficial for people who are dieting in order to lose weight. Some medical studies even show how psyllium seeds affect the intake of fat, thus making psyllium a strong prospect in diets meant for heavy and obese people. Seeds of plantago psyllium are used by herbalists to normalize bowel movements and relieve diarrhea. The herb is also used to treat enteric disorders like inflammatory bowel disease and dysentery, bladder disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerations, and urinary tract infections. Traditionally psyllium was as a treatment for cough and in some tropical countries a preparation of psyllium sees is still used to treat hemorrhoids, eruptions of the skin, and insect bites and stings. In recent times, the herb is widely used as an excellent source of dietary fiber and a safe and effective remedy for treating constipation. Research suggests that plantago psyllium is also likely to be useful in lowering blood cholesterol levels and hypertension, thus eventually helping to avoid heart disease.
Herb Administered as:
Psyllium plantago is administered in the form of powders and capsules. In some medicinal preparations it is also used in combination with digestive regulators such as bifidus. However, it is important to drink plenty of water or fluid when consuming psyllium.