Psyllium husks come from the many small seeds produced by the herb Plantago ovata, which is native to India. Psyllium husks are a very good source of soluble fiber, so people harvest them for use in fiber supplements and laxatives. Although psyllium husk capsules are generally safe, you should speak with your doctor before taking them to make sure it would be safe for you to do so.
Purpose
Doctors usually recommend psyllium husk capsules to treat constipation. The soluble fiber in the psyllium husks absorbs water and makes your stools bulkier and easier to pass. Sometimes people also take psyllium husk capsules to lower their cholesterol or their blood sugar levels. Psyllium husk capsules can also help treat diarrhea, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Use
You should only use psyllium husk capsules for one week unless your doctor advises you otherwise. Drink an 8-oz. glass of liquid with each dose of psyllium that you take and drink plenty of liquid during the day to lower your risk for side effects. If psyllium husk capsules upset your stomach, you can take them with food to make this side effect less likely. Starting with a low dose and building up to the recommended dose can also decrease your risk for side effects.
Side Effects and Safety
Possible side effects from psyllium husk capsules include difficulty breathing or swallowing, bloating, gas, cramps, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, rash, rectal bleeding, skin rash and itching. Psyllium can interfere with the absorption of other medications, so do not take it within two hours of taking your medication. Do not take psyllium if you have difficulty swallowing, intestinal blockage, a colostomy or rectal bleeding.
Considerations
Do not self-treat any condition with psyllium husk capsules. Speak with your doctor before taking psyllium to make sure it is safe for you and will not interact with any medications you are taking. It can take up to three days for you to see noticeable benefits from taking psyllium husk capsules.
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