Psyllium Husk Herbal Remedies
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.
Psyllium Husk Proper Dose
| Type | Dossage |
| Psyllium Husk Husk | 1-2 tsp of the husk 1-2 x daily in water |
Psyllium Husk Reference Information
| Latin Name | Plantago ovata |
| Other Names | Ispaghula |
| Part Used | Seeds |
| Herb Forms | Tablet, capsule, bulk seed and husk. |
| Affects | Digestive system |
| 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. |
| Botanical Info | Psyllium comes from a large variety of plantain species. The seed husks and whole seeds are both used. |
Supporting Research
Leung, A. and S. Foster. 1996. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients. New York: J. Wiley & Sons.
McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
Bradley, P.R., ed. 1992. British Herbal Compendium. Dorset: British Herbal Medicine Association.