Psyllium seed husks come from the herb plantain, or Plantago ovata, and they’re used as the primary ingredient in certain laxative products like Metamucil, Genfiber and Reguloid. Primarily used as a fiber supplement and natural laxative, psyllium is generally considered safe. Psyllium can cause certain safety risks, however, so you should consult with your doctor before taking psyllium products or remedies.
Uses
Psyllium is a natural soluble fiber that’s most commonly used as a gentle laxative, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. You might take psyllium to help treat constipation, diarrhea and hemorrhoids. But psyllium may have other health benefits and potential uses. You might also take psyllium to help treat diabetes, ulcerative colitis and diverticular disease, as well as to reduce blood cholesterol or triglyceride levels and promote weight loss, says the University of Michigan Health System. You should talk with your doctor before taking psyllium to treat any health problem or medical condition, however.
Dosage
To treat constipation, the typical dosage of psyllium seed husks is 1 teaspoon taken three times daily, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Alternatively, you might take up to 2 teaspoons of psyllium seeds mixed in 1 cup of warm water, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Your doctor may recommend a higher dosage for you, but these are generally considered the safe doses of psyllium.
Side Effects
The most common side effects that you might experience from taking psyllium are bloating and gas. You may also have stomach pain or cramps from taking psyllium, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. If you have problems swallowing, you could experience choking when taking psyllium. That’s why you should mix psyllium with plenty of water and drink it immediately before the mixture thickens. Also, you should drink at least six glasses of water daily while taking psyllium to prevent constipation, advises the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Health Risks
If you have certain health conditions, psyllium could make them worse. Psyllium can worsen irritable bowel syndrome, bowel obstructions and diabetes. Psyllium can potentially cause blockages in your intestines, Drug Digest warns. Psyllium seeds could contain certain compounds that might cause damage to your kidneys, especially if the seeds are manufactured improperly. Also, some people are allergic to the pollen from plantain plants and could have an allergic reaction to psyllium seeds or husks.
Drug Interactions
Psyllium could delay or inhibit your body’s absorption of some medications, so you should take psyllium at least two hours before or after taking other medicines, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Psyllium can reduce your absorption or the effectiveness of tricyclic antidepressants, the seizure medication carbamazepine or Tegretol, the heart medicine digoxin and lithium. If you take medications for treating diabetes or high cholesterol, psyllium could increase their effectiveness. Talk to a health care provider before taking psyllium if you take any of these types of medications.
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