HOW IS IT PROMOTED FOR USE?
The Psyllium seed husk is used primarily as a fiber supplement to promote bowel
movements and ease constipation. Fiber is the indigestible material in plant
foods, also known as roughage. High fiber diets help the digestive tract function
properly. Psyllium absorbs water and expands as it travels through the digestive
tract, which is why it is reffered to as bulk-forming laxative. Psyllium is
also sometimes used to treat side effects of conventional cancer treatment,
such as disrrhea and constipation.
What does it involve?
Psyllium seed husk is approved by Commission E (Germany's regulatory agency
for herbs) for chronic constipation. It is also supported by the FDA which
has issued a food specific positive health claim for oats that includes psyllium
fiber.
Psyllium is available in powder, tablet, and capsule form. In any form, it
must be taken with adequate amounts of water(1 or 2 glasses per 3.5g). Commission
E recommends 4-20 g/day of the drug as needed. Psyllium is also available as
the most common ingredient contained in laxatives that are used by over 4 million
Americans a day. These laxatives are available over the counter and by prescription.
What is the histroy behind it?
Psyllium seed husk has been used as a laxative for generations. The leaves
of the plant have been used in many folk medicine traditions to treat a variety
of conditions such as blisters, bleeding, abrasions, sprains, insect bites,
stings, burns, poison ivy, throat irritation, gout, inflammation of mucous
membrances and skin, and as a wash for sore. |
