Psyllium is the husk of the seed of the Plantago and is a top herb used in weight control and for general intestinal health. It contains a spongy fibre that reduces appetite, improves digestion and cleanses the system, making it an excellent choice for healthy dieting. Psyllium can provide the fibre that is missing on low-carbohydrate diets. Every 100 grams of psyllium provides 71 grams of soluble fibre; a similar amount of oat bran would contain only 5 grams of soluble fibre.
Psyllium has also been used for irritable bowel syndrome. Because it will produce easy bowel movements with a loose stool, Psyllium is used by patients with anal fissures (cracks in the skin near the anus) and haemorrhoids and is often recommended following anal or rectal surgery, during pregnancy and as a secondary treatment in certain types of diarrhea.
Drink plenty of water when taking psyllium.
