Psyllium Seed: Benefits, Uses & Dosage - A Comprehensive Guide

The seed of the psyllium plant, known also as plantago psyllium or plantago isphagula, has a husk covered in mucilage. Mucilage swells and bulks when exposed to water; this is what allows psyllium to work as a bulk laxative, stimulating your intestines to move their bulk through your system. Psyllium is also an effective treatment for diarrhea because it absorbs the excess water and provides a soft, bulky stool.

Instructions

• 1

  Place 2 or 3 tsp. of psyllium seed husk, or the powdered seed husk, in an 8-oz. glass of water.

• 2

  Stir the water and psyllium seed vigorously to blend--you can also use a blender on low speed to do this.

• 3

  Sweeten the psyllium drink to taste with honey, stevia or molasses if necessary.

• 4

  Drink the water and psyllium immediately. If you delay, the psyllium will turn gelatinous and then set, becoming very unpalatable.

• 5

  Follow the psyllium with another 8-oz. glass of water. Make sure to continue drinking large amounts of water throughout the day to help move the psyllium through your system.