Psyllium

History:

Psyllium is a low-growing annual that is native to the Mediterranean area, northern Africa and southern Asia and has been cultivated for thousands of years in those regions, as well as Europe and North America. India dominates the world market in the production and export of Psyllium, and the United States is the largest importer. Psyllium is an annual plant that may grow in waste places in full sun to about sixteen inches in height, and it has long occupied an important place among medicinal plants. The root system has a well developed tap root with few fibrous secondary roots. A large number of flowering shoots arise from the base of the plant, and the white flowers are numerous and small. Plants flower about sixty days after planting. Psyllium seeds are enclosed in capsules that open at maturity. Its tiny seeds give the herb its name from the Greek, psylla, which means "flea," and those tiny seeds contain a rich mucilage content that, when combined with water, swell tremendously. The species Plantago ovata and Plantago psyllium may be used interchangeably, and both yield rich quantities of mucilage. The enlarged mass is highly gelatinous, and has been used since ancient times for healthy bowel movements. For centuries, traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic physicians have used Psyllium for bowel, colon and rectal tissue support, and it was one of the first medicinal plants to be carried to the Americas from Europe, where it had been used for intestinal health since the sixteenth century. Psyllium did not become popular in the United States until early in the twentieth century, but it is now used extensively for  intestinal and colon health and helping to support normal bowel movements. The seeds and husks are used for therapeutic purposes. Its special asset is that, being a vegetable substance, it has a purely mechanical action, lubricating and cleansing the intestines simultaneously with no harmful side effects. Constituents include fiber, mucilage, glycosides, tannins, minerals, polysaccharides, proteins, essential oils, sterol and flavonoids.

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, two (2) to three (3) times each day between meals.

Contraindications:
Pregnant women should avoid all laxatives. A possible allergic reaction could result in the use of Psyllium Herbal Supplement , and since it may affect absorption of prescription medications and important vitamins, you may have to take the drug or other supplements either one hour before or two hours after the Psyllium. Diabetics or those taking Lithium or Tegretol(R) (for seizures) or other prescription medications should discuss its use with a physician before using. Taking Psyllium supplements without adequate liquids may cause it to swell, and, in extreme cases, cause choking. Do not take this product if you have difficulty swallowing. People with esophageal stricture (narrowing of the esophagus) or any other narrowing or obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract/intestinal blockage should not take Psyllium. Do not take if you have a fecal impaction (large amount of stool that you cannot pass). It is important to drink at least six glasses of water daily when taking Psyllium. Psyllium can sometimes cause bloating, gas, diarrhea, or (if you don’t drink enough fluid) constipation may result). Psyllium can also dilute digestive enzymes, and is best taken between meals (especially before bed or first thing in the morning) rather than with food at mealtimes. "NOTICE: This food should be eaten with at least a full glass of liquid. Eating this product without enough liquid may cause choking. Do not eat this product if your have difficulty in swallowing."

Capsule Information:
Our Psyllium supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules.(click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.

Special Note:
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Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Herbal Extracts Plus is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.