What Are the Uses of Psyllium Husk?

Psyllium husk is a popular natural ingrediant in laxatives, and is used for constipation. According to MedlinePlus, a joint project between the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, psyllium husks (also known as simply "psyllium" comes from the seed husks of plantago ovata, a plant that is also known as desert Indianwheat. Psyllium is also useful in treating high cholesterol and diarrhea.

Psyllium Husk and Constipation

• Psyllium husk is high in fiber, which is helpful in people who are constipate. In clinical studies, an increase in bowel movements has been seen in people taking psyllium. Psyllium is the active ingredient in many over-the-counter remedies for constipation, including Metamucil and Serutan.

Psyllium Husk and High Cholesterol

• In clinical studies, people taking psyllium husk have lowered cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein, which is the bad type of cholesterol. These effects have been seen after eight-week studies of daily psyllium intake. MedlinePlus notes that the reduction of cholesterol is relatively modest, and people who have high cholesterol should talk to their doctors about a more aggressive approach to treating it before relying on psyllium.

Psyllium Husk and Diarrhea

• Psyllium husk has been used in clinical studies of people suffering from diarrhea, especially those who are going through tube feeding. MedlinePlus notes that psyllium seems to have a "stool bulking effect" and is safe to be used for diarrhea.

Psyllium Husk and Other Uses

• Psyllium may be useful for other types of medical problems. MedlinePlus warns that more clinical studies must be conducted before psyllium's efficiency is definitely known. People have reported that psyllium is helpful with the following: anal fissures, colon cancer, colonoscopy preparation, fat excretion, gas, hemorrhoids, hyperglycemia, cervical dilation, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome and obesity.

Considerations

• Always talk to your doctor before beginning any type of psyllium use. Some people have reported allergies to psyllium, and may cause side effects like difficulty in breathing, wheezing and rashes. Psyllium may interact with other constipation remedies.