Psyllium seeds and husks have similar actions in the body, and are most commonly known as the active ingredient in Metamucil and other brands of laxative products. You might take psyllium for a variety of medicinal purposes, but the remedy is usually used to treat constipation and other bowel-related health problems. Before you take psyllium seeds or husks to treat any health issue, talk with your doctor to discuss the possible risks and drug interactions.
Identification
Psyllium comes from the shrub-like plant called Plantago ovata or Plantago ispaghula, which is native to India and Iran, says the University of Michigan Health System. Psyllium refers to the gel-coated seeds and husks of the plant, which are used mostly for their soluble fiber content. Psyllium husks are derived from the seeds. The husks specifically are used in most medicinal preparations.
Function
Psyllium seeds and husks contain large amounts of mucilage and fiber, and they swell into a gel-like bulky substance when they're mixed with water. Psyllium seeds and husks act as bulk-forming laxatives, meaning that the gel-like bulk induces bowel contractions and aids in bowel movements. The soluble fiber in the psyllium husks also has cholesterol-lowering actions, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. In the same manner that psyllium seeds and husks appear to produce laxative actions, they also appear to act as antidiarrheal agents, adds the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Effects
Because psyllium seeds and husks have the same functions, they also share the same medicinal uses. Psyllium seeds and husks may help in treating constipation and diarrhea, as well as other gastrointestinal conditions like ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids and irritable bowel syndrome, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Don't take psyllium seeds or husks for these conditions before first consulting your doctor.
Potential
Psyllium seeds and husks could potentially play a role in preventing colon cancer, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. In addition to digestive and bowel problems, the high fiber content in psyllium seeds and husks could also help lower your cholesterol and triglyceride levels, treat diverticular disease and diabetes, and promote weight loss by making you feel fuller, says the University of Michigan Health System. Psyllium could potentially help treat or prevent hypertension and heart disease as well. No conclusive medical research supports the use of psyllium seeds or husks for treating or preventing any health condition, however.
Warning
Both the seeds and husks of psyllium could be dangerous if you have a bowel obstruction or uncontrolled blood sugar levels, warns the University of Michigan Health System. If you're experiencing prolonged, chronic constipation, talk with your physician before taking psyllium. You must drink plenty of water while taking psyllium and take each dose with a full glass of water to prevent constipation or choking, cautions the University of Maryland Medical Center. Also, don't take psyllium seeds or husks within two hours of other medications, because psyllium can interfere with the absorption of many drugs and supplements. Additionally, psyllium can cause side effects like gas, bloating, cramps and stomach pain, and it can cause allergic reactions in some people, says the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
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