Psyllium, also called plantain of the Indies, is a plant which contains its medicinal properties in its seed and its envelope (called husk or integument). Although blond psyllium is the best known, black psyllium has the same beneficial properties of intestinal regulator with mild laxative functions and very well tolerated by the body. These properties are now recognized by the OMS.
Psyllium is a plant known for a long time for its many medicinal properties. From ancient times, blond psyllium seeds had found their utility in medicine. This is how the Egyptians recognized laxative virtues or that the Chinese used it regularly in the treatment of diarrhea, constipation, urinary problems or even hypertension.
Origin of blond psyllium
Also called Indian plantain or Ispaghul (plantago ovata) the blond psyllium relieves many intestinal pathologies and is considered the best friend of the colon for centuries in Asia and India more particularly as well as for several years in Western countries, affected them , by irritable bowel syndrome and all transit disorders related to industrial food, sedentarization and lack of physical activity stimulating the digestion of food.
The blond psyllium (Plantago Ovata) is also known as Indian plantain or ispaghul. Its name comes from the Greek psyllia which means flea, because its seeds are extremely small and light (less than 1 gram for 500 seeds). It is in the integuments (envelopes of the seed) that all the virtues of the blond psyllium are found.
Cultivation of blond psyllium
Psyllium is usually grown in India, Pakistan, and West Asia, but has adapted to the European climate. This plant grows all year long and tolerates heat and drought as well as cold, and is content with a land of little fertility. Gathered at maturity, it is sun-dried at 30 to 40 ° C, then the seeds are extracted by threshing.
The properties of psyllium for health
Psyllium also brings other health benefits and the whole body with tremendous efficiency. The blond psyllium integument is therefore successfully used to facilitate digestion and regulate transit, against constipation, to prevent problems of diverticulosis and diverticulitis. It is used to lower cholesterol too high (hypercholesterolemia), for irritable bowel syndrome, non-insulin-dependent diabetes. But it is also used to fight against arteriosclerosis and all diseases of the cardiovascular system. No more semi-liquid stools, diarrhea, or dysentery, psyllium is also effective against hemorrhoids and rectocolitis. Organic blond psyllium fiber will increase stool volume in the colon, thereby eliminating constipation while facilitating weight loss through decreased appetite and satiety, effectively counteracting obesity and heartburn which will make it a valuable ally if you are on a slimming diet. Organic psyllium will also, through better hygiene and complete evacuation, prevent the risk of colon cancer by preventing toxic and chemical waste and endocrine disruptors (parabens, heavy metals, etc.) from being in danger. direct contact to impregnate the intestinal mucosa.
How to use psyllium?
There are psyllium-based healthy dietary supplements, mainly in the form of powder, but also in flakes, granules, which can be diluted in drinks or sprinkled on foods.
It is also possible to consume the unprocessed psyllium seeds. So let the seeds soak for a few hours in warm water.
Precautions to take
It is recommended to drink a lot after the absorption of psyllium, in order to optimize the transformation of the mucilage into a transit-promoting gel, and to prevent the risk of obstruction of the digestive tract. Psyllium is contraindicated for any type of gastrointestinal obstruction (intestinal, esophageal stenosis).
The health effects of psyllium are generally found within 48 hours, especially for the regulation of transit, respecting the prescribed doses. Take advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Usage tips
Organic blond psyllium can be eaten mixed with water between meals as an appetite suppressant or mixed in juices, smoothies, yogurts or compotes. Can also be used to thicken sauces and pastries.
1 to 3 teaspoons a day maximum to avoid disturbing the body.
Psyllium Husk Health Benefits - Benefits of psyllium husk