Psyllium Husk benefits

Psyllium Husk

What is psyllium husk? Psyllium is a form of fiber made from the husks of the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant. It is sometimes known as ispagula.

It is better known as a laxative. However, research shows that taking psyllium is beneficial for many parts of the human body, including the heart and pancreas.

It is primarily used as a bulk-forming laxative or mild stool softener (it is the main ingredient in Metamucil), but it is also a prebiotic that helps balance the good bacteria in the gut.

Why is FIBER so important to our diet?

There is strong evidence that getting enough fiber is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and colon cancer. Choosing high-fiber foods also makes us feel fuller, while a high-fiber diet can aid digestion and prevent constipation.

Dietary fiber increases the weight and size of the stool and softens it. A bulky stool is easier to pass, decreasing the likelihood of constipation. If you have loose or watery stools, fiber can help solidify the stool by absorbing water and adding bulk to the stool. Helps maintain intestinal health.

I usually choose psyllium husk for myself because it is easy to find in all health food stores, has a very fast response in our body, and unless used in high doses, has no side effects. The recommended dosage is half a tablespoon at night with plenty of warm water. It is an excellent source of fiber for people on a ketogenic diet, where fiber is harder to find in the foods eaten.

So what can psyllium husk do for us?

  • Topical application of psyllium paste may be helpful in relieving burning sensations and inflammation.
  • Topical application of psyllium paste is used in various disorders related to Vata and Pitta.
  • Psyllium husk has laxative properties.
  • Due to its quality of snigdha guna (softness), it is useful for relieving dryness in the gastroesophageal area.
  • Due to its quality of picchila guna (mucilaginous property), it is useful to increase the motility of the intestine.
  • As a result, bowel movements become more frequent and easier to pass, and constipation is relieved.
  • Roasted psyllium seeds are useful in controlling diarrhea and dysentery.
  • Psyllium may be helpful in controlling the growth of "bad bacteria" in the intestine.
  • Psyllium also forms a mucilaginous layer over any lesion, wound, or intestinal cut.
  • As a result, it protects the intestine from irritants by protecting the intestinal mucosa. Psyllium is also useful in cases of excessive thirst or polydipsia.
  • Psyllium is helpful in removing excess mucus from the body.
  • Psyllium is helpful in relieving a dry cough.
  • Psyllium has diuretic properties.
  • Therefore, it can be useful in problems such as dysuria (difficulty urinating) and urinary tract infections.
  • Psyllium is helpful in improving strength and also contributes to weight gain.
  • It can be used in cases of general weakness and emaciation problems.
  • Psyllium is useful in fever. It is also administered in cases of fever due to Pitta dosha to relieve burning sensation, thirst and reduce temperature.

If you would like more information on Ayurveda and how to strengthen your digestive system, feel free to BOOK a CONSULTATION with Maria Jose Valenzuela today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this blog post is intended to provide general guidance only on matters of interest for the personal use of the reader, who accepts all responsibility for its use. Consult your doctor, Ayurveda practitioner or other health professional regarding any treatment for your health problems.