The seeds of psyllium are used especially for their laxative properties. They also have emollient, protective, anti-inflammatory, as well as prebiotic properties (supporting growth of a bacterial flora acidophilus at the expense of bacterial species as a putrefactive action) and they are therefore useful for strengthening the immune system and improve intestinal activity. In the case of constipation, the seeds of psyllium are more frequently used and recognized, thanks to their ability to draw liquid and swell in the gut, and they are also useful in the presence of diarrhea, since they absorb the excess liquid and increase stool consistency (they are therefore also useful in case of colitis and irritable bowel syndrome and in the presence of hemorrhoids and anal fissures).
What are psylium seeds?
Psyllium seeds are mainly used as a laxative. These seeds are, in fact, part of the so-called group of "bulk laxatives" because the mucilaginous coating that covers them expands to increase by 25 times its own weight when it comes in contact with water. Thanks to their ability to draw fluid in the gut, the psyllium seeds swell increasing and softening the faecal mass and stimulate peristalsis and expulsion. It is important to take them with plenty of fluids, and in the right quantities.
How should Psylium seeds be taken?
The product is commonly sold in herbal medicine stores or pharmacies in the form of extract or powder. The administration is usually performed in the form of infusion.
Side effects associated with Psylium seeds
If used for a long time and especially at doses higher than recommended the psyllium seeds can cause flatulence and bloating.
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Psylium seeds
It is advisable to take psyllium seeds between meals to provide for the basic processing of the seeds in order to avoid speeding up the digestive process and not allowing it to properly absorb ingested nutrients. Particular care should be taken when administering people that are allergic and patients that are already being treated with cholesterol-lowering medications and blood glucose lowering drugs, since the psyllium seeds enhance the effects of these drugs.
