Commonly called as psyllium they are actually Psyllium seed husks; the portions of the seeds of the plant, Plantago ovata. This plant is a native of India and has been used in Ayurveda for centuries. Ayurveda and Siddha medicine prescribes this for cleansing the colon, constipation and other bowel related diseases. Psyllium husk is a rich source of water soluble fiber and are hygroscopic, which upon contact with water will swell and become mucilaginous.
Medicinal Uses of Psyllium Husk:
The biggest misconception among people about Psyllium husk is considering it as laxative. It is not a laxative, as laxatives liquify the stool and influences the contractions of the intestinal wall resulting in the rush. Psyllium on the other hand increases the bulk by absorbing water. It also lubricates the path without hindering the absorption of nutrients, hence cures constipation safely.
Recent studies also shows that it is good for circulatory health, aids in preventing colon related cancers and aids in controlling the bad cholesterol.
However the single major function of this is to cleanse the colon. For a healthy digestive track and a healthy body the amount the digested food spends in the intestine is very important. Cleansing of colon using psyllium husk usually gets rid of the bad bacteria and toxins from the intestine. The colon will be restored back to normal functioning after the cleanse.
Psyllium Husk – Weight Loss:
Ayurveda uses this mainly for colon cleanse, decrease blood toxicity and to improve circulation, it can also be used as an effective tool for healthy weight loss. It can be effectively used by consuming it 30 minutes before a meal, it swells in the stomach making you feel very full and thereby decreasing your food intake. Most of the weight loss pills in the market are unhealthy appetite suppressants, so it is better to go for psyllium husk, which is natural and healthy than some unsafe diet pills.
Word of Caution:
1) It poses a choking hazard if taken without sufficient water. It absorbs water very quickly and can swell in the throat or the food pipe, so make sure you consume it the correct way with sufficient water.
2) Drink ample amount of water whenever you consume Psyllium husk for best results and safety.
Tips for buying and using psyllium husk
There are numerous psyllium husk supplements available; however, please pay attention to the product as a lot of suppliers bring you husk that is powdered and enhanced with artificial flavors and color for better appeal. This will make the product less effective and also adds toxins in to your system. So go for organic whole husk of Psyllium.
Recommended product:
Psyllium Husks Whole
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