What is Isabgol
Isabgol (Psyllium Husk) is the seed of the Plantago Ovata plant (genus Plantago). The plant has long, narrow leaves and its seeds are arranged similar to that of wheat. It is a herb native to Asia, the Mediterranean region and North Africa. Psyllium is a rabi crop that requires cool, sunny, dry weather to grow and 5-6 months to be ready for harvest. Isabgol contains insoluble and soluble fiber which acts as a good dietary supplement and aids in digestion.
Psyllium husk contains 70% soluble fiber and 30% insoluble fiber. It is a known remedy for eliminating toxins from the body. Isabgol is used primarily for medicinal purposes and has a myriad of health benefits. The soluble fiber in Isabgol helps reduce the risk of health problems like constipation, cholesterol, diarrhea, regulates blood sugar and more.
The main benefit of Shankhpushpi is that it is a brain tonic and improves memory and intellect. Besides that it can be used to treat epilepsy and headache. It also controls vomiting and helps treat diabetes.
Psyllium husk (Isabgol)
Psyllium husk commonly known as isabgol is a common household product. It grows on a small herbaceous plant called planovate whose seeds are arranged in the same way as that of wheat. Its leaves resemble aloe vera, they are narrow and long. Its peels are a very important component of Ayurveda.
Health benefits of psyllium husk (Isabgol)
Mentioned below are the best health benefits of Psyllium Husk (Isabgol)
Nutritional information.
Uses of psyllium husk (Isabgol)
Psyllium is mainly used for medicinal purposes. Apart from this there are some other uses as well. They are a thickening agent in the production of ice cream and other parfaits. It is also used for calico press, fixation lotions and in the food industry. Transplanting into woody plants uses technical psyllium as a hydrocolloid to improve water retention.
Side effects and allergies of psyllium husk (Isabgol)
Side effects and allergies are extremely rare with isabgol. But those suffering from swallowing difficulties and intestinal blockages should avoid having this as it could aggravate the problem. Rhinitis and anaphylaxis are the common side effects of isabgol, but they rarely occur.
Cultivation of psyllium husk (Isabgol)
Psyllium originated in India and is now also grown in parts of Western Asia, the United States, Mexico and Russia. This plant is a Rabi crop and requires a cool, dry and sunny climate to grow. Isabgol needs a sandy or loamy soil that is well drained and does not allow water to stagnate. It takes 5 to 6 months before the plants are ready for harvest. India is the largest producer of Psyllium.
