Psyllium, commonly called "flea grass" because of the appearance of the seeds, is an annual herbaceous plant that can grow up to 50 cm in height. Its seeds, the part used, are shiny, dark reddish-brown in color and swell in water, becoming covered with a layer of colorless mucilage. Psyllium seeds have been used for centuries as a natural laxative. Rich in mucilage, sticky substances very similar to natural gel and also commonly detected in mallow, the water-soluble fibers that make up the seeds greatly increase their volume in contact with water. Given this characteristic, therefore, they have been used for centuries as a natural remedy to combat constipation: in addition to increasing fecal mass, in fact, they soften it, making expulsion easy. The effect is very similar to so-called "mechanical" commercial laxatives, that is, they act on the stimulus to defecation by increasing the consistency of the biological waste to be expelled. That's not all, however, because, as with the aforementioned mallow, mucilage has a definite anti-inflammatory result: it sits like a microfilm over reddened mucous membranes, preventing subsequent irritation and creating a mild barrier to bacteria, so as to reduce the possibility of infection. Given these merits, psyllium is used for all digestive and intestinal disorders, including the need for peristalsis regulation typical of the irritable bowel syndrome, to which is also added a soothing and lubricating effect for external topical use in cases of hemorrhoids.
Effects on the organism
Taking psyllium seed extract results in an increase in the volume of intestinal contents (but does not promote fermentation) due to the swelling of mucilage; this stimulates peristalsis and evacuation. At the same time, psyllium may have a soothing, anti-inflammatory and protective effect on the intestinal mucosa due to its components, which is especially useful in cases of irritable bowel. In addition, the mucilages in psyllium help to reduce intestinal absorption of fats, cholesterol-without, however, changing the levels of good cholesterol (HDL)-and sugars, with a decrease in the glycemic spike after a meal. All this helps detoxify the body and make the metabolism more active, with faster elimination of excess fat.
When to use it
Administration of the remedy is usually occasional, that is, in conjunction with intestinal disorders or
digestive disorders that do not respond to normal treatments. Or during a diet, it is particularly effective if the pounds to be lost are 3-5, and if the person taking it adopts a dietary regimen aimed at reducing body weight and engages in regular physical activity (one walk a day is enough!). Also useful for increasing satiety and controlling the glycemic index.
How to take it on
It is estimated that 2 to 10 grams should be taken daily in times of need, amounting to a little more than two administrations within the day. Take 1-2 sachets daily, preferably away from meals, with plenty of water. You can also add it to a fresh, seasonal fruit smoothie. Instead, to take advantage of its satiating effect, you need to take it 20-30 minutes before lunch and before dinner.