Article prepared by:
Vasily Babkinsky
Doctor of the highest category
Many people try to solve many problems throughout the day, so they often save time on eating properly, which is where problems with the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract arise. Plantain seeds for constipation are often prescribed by doctors as an additional way to restore normal bowel function due to their effectiveness.
Not many people know that psyllium seeds are quite effective for constipation.
Seed composition
The composition of the seeds includes many useful substances that have a beneficial effect on the body. Before you read the information about how psyllium seeds work against constipation, it is worth considering the following table:
Polysaccharides | Their content in seeds is about 44%. This element is presented in the form of mucus, which envelops the mucous membrane and reduces the development of the inflammatory process |
Oils containing fatty acids | Carry out the function of regeneration, softening and restoration |
Vitamins and minerals | They contain a sufficient amount of fiber, which promotes active intestinal function and improves peristalsis. |
American researchers conducted a series of experiments that showed the content of specific gluten. It is gluten-free, which is beneficial for people who suffer from celiac disease.
Beneficial features
Psyllium husk for constipation is a universal natural remedy that helps with bowel movements. Whole seeds are also widely used. As for the juice of the plant, it copes well with the side symptoms of chronic gastritis.
Taking psyllium seeds speeds up the digestion of food in the intestines
The following properties of plantain seeds can be distinguished:
- Due to the high fiber content, feces are actively formed.
- Promotes active digestion of food and absorption of necessary substances for the body.
- This is a strong enterosorbent that promotes the removal of decay products and toxins from the body.
- Since the plant contains a large amount of mucus, it forms a membrane for the gastrointestinal tract and promotes rapid healing of wounds.
- Activates intestinal motility and helps with atonic constipation.
- Restoration of microflora in the intestines.
It is important to note that psyllium seeds not only help to remove side symptoms, but also have a qualitative effect on the cause of constipation.
Plantain seeds can be used to restore intestinal microflora
Use for constipation
The use of plantain for constipation is usually in the form of decoctions, tinctures or powder. It is important to note that the decoction should not sit for a long time after preparation. Therefore, it is best to consume it immediately. In addition, plantain for constipation in the form of a decoction should not contain boiled extract. As soon as it starts to boil, it must be immediately removed from the heat. Otherwise, the plantain will lose all its healing properties and become useless.
There are several popular recipes for preparing the decoction:
- Pour a glass of water into a tablespoon of the ingredient and place it on the stove. We wait until the water boils. Taken twice daily.
- Pour a tablespoon of seeds with half a glass of water. We insist, strain and take three times a day.
- Make powder from dried seeds. Three times a day, take ¼ teaspoon on an empty stomach before meals. It is recommended to drink plenty of water.
- Take a glass of boiling water for 10 grams of seeds, add a tablespoon of dried dill. Leave it alone for three hours. Strain and drink the full amount at night.
Plantain seeds can be taken not only in the form of a decoction, but also in pureed form
In order to achieve maximum effect, it must be taken within 10 days. In addition, it is mandatory to drink at least two liters of pure distilled water. After the seeds enter the stomach, they actively absorb water. If this condition is not met, the patient’s condition may seriously deteriorate.
Experts also recommend consuming fern seeds 40 minutes before eating. The maximum dosage of the ingredient per day should not exceed 10 grams. Taking the drug three times a day gives maximum effect. Can be added to food. It is recommended to pre-soak the seeds for 6 hours.
As mentioned earlier, psyllium husk also has a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract and eliminates constipation. This is due to the fact that it contains a large amount of fiber, which promotes the movement of formed feces. As a result, a reflex occurs in the form of contraction of the intestinal walls. If you need to get rid of mild constipation, which does not occur periodically, you can add a spoonful of husks to a glass of water, milk or juice. It is recommended to drink the medicine half an hour before meals three times a day.
For constipation, it is recommended to drink plenty of water
If severe, persistent constipation occurs, it is necessary to increase the dosage to two spoons with plenty of liquid. It is recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water throughout the day. Or drink a glass of water immediately after taking the husk.
This ingredient helps to quickly remove all harmful bacteria, cleanse the body of toxins, and also improve the microflora by increasing the number of bifidobacteria.
It is worth noting that the husk is also of some interest to nutritionists, since it does not harm health, and weight is lost as quickly as possible. In addition, the cost of the husk is small, which means preparing a decoction or tincture yourself will not be difficult.
Watch this video if you want to learn everything about the properties of psyllium seed shells:
Contraindications for use
At first glance, harmless psyllium seeds also have contraindications that should be taken into account before choosing a drug for constipation. It is not recommended to consume seeds in the following cases:
- specific reaction to the ingredient;
- lactation period;
- pregnancy;
- the presence of an inflammatory process in the gastrointestinal tract;
- endometritis;
- development of malignant formation in the genitourinary system;
- presence of intestinal obstruction;
- allergic reaction to the component;
- children under six years of age.
This method is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
It is worth considering separately the specific reaction of the body to plantain seeds. It is important to understand that individual intolerance may appear as a result. As for side symptoms, they most often occur in the form of:
- Heartburn.
- Vitamin deficiency. Since psyllium seeds remove waste by-products from the body, important elements that contribute to the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and other internal organ systems can also be eliminated.
- The occurrence of an allergic reaction. Most often it manifests itself in the form of rashes or suffocation. If, after consuming the decoction or powder, the patient experiences a deterioration in their physical condition, it is recommended to consult a doctor as soon as possible for advice. The specialist will probably find an alternative solution to the current situation.
Taking the seeds causes heartburn in some people.
Due to the healing properties of plantain seeds, it is used in a wide variety of industries: gynecology, dermatology, cosmetology. In any case, through the use of natural medicine, you can significantly improve your health.
Vasily Babkinsky
Hello, my name is Vasily. For 7 years now I have been helping people with intestinal problems, working in the first private clinic in Brno. I will be glad to answer your questions about the article in the comments; you can ask our doctors other questions on this page.
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In case of constipation, plantain seeds actively affect the intestines and help normalize its functioning. Intestinal function and bowel movements are restored due to the osmotic properties of the plant and medicines based on it. Plantain does not become addictive over time, but it is important to find out the dosage of the drugs before making them at home.
Instructions for use
Gastroenterologists recommend treating constipation that occurs due to weakness of the intestinal muscular system with plantain-based remedies. At home, you can prepare laxatives yourself or buy ready-made preparations with plantain extract at the pharmacy.
So, we offer the following effective products based on psyllium husks:
- You can easily buy plantain seeds at the pharmacy to treat digestive problems. The seeds can be consumed either independently or prepared medicinal decoctions based on it. So, in the morning before breakfast, adults are recommended to eat a spoonful of seeds. Be sure to drink plenty of water to speed up the process of thinning solid waste in the intestines. The duration of treatment is from 1 to 3 days. If the seeds do not help restore normal stool, you should definitely contact a gastroenterologist, who will select another, more effective remedy for constipation. For prevention, small quantities of seeds can be added to dishes.
- However, it is not always possible to use ordinary seeds, for example, in the case of treating children who do not yet know how to chew. You can prepare a decoction based on plantain. To do this, take one large spoon of seeds, pour a liter of boiling water and leave for several hours in a thermos. Strain and take immediately before breakfast or before bed. Prescribe one glass, and for children - a spoonful of the prepared decoction. Usually, with mild constipation, it is possible to restore normal stool already on the second day after taking the decoction.
- Another good and effective remedy for constipation based on plantain extract. You need to take five spoons of plantain seeds and pour two glasses of boiling water over them. Cook for several minutes in a water bath. Leave for two hours, strain and take in the morning before breakfast. Adults can have one glass, children over 6 years old – half a glass, infants – one small spoon. In most cases, on the second day it is possible to restore a stable bowel movement.
- For the best effect, it is recommended to combine dill and plantain seeds. This is an excellent remedy for chronic and severe constipation. To prepare the decoction, you need to take dill and plantain seeds one spoon at a time, pour a glass of boiling water and leave in a thermos for several hours. Take a glass on an empty stomach. If you drink it before bed, you should expect a positive result in the morning.
Properties of plantain seeds
Plantain is often used in folk medicine due to its healing properties. Every part of the plant is used, including the seeds. The properties of plantain and its regenerative capabilities are actively used in the treatment of external wounds and ulcers and internal violations of the integrity of the mucous membranes.
Plantain seeds and extracts from them are used. They reduce blood cholesterol levels and blood pressure levels. If you use decoctions of plantain seeds, you can not only prevent constipation, but also cardiovascular pathologies. They also help reduce blood glucose.
Why does plantain help treat constipation?
Used to relieve problems associated with delayed bowel movement, usually plantain seeds or leaves. Their benefits to the body are explained by the inclusion of various beneficial substances in the chemical composition:
- polysaccharides that provide a softening effect on the mucous membranes and relieve inflammation;
- fatty oil that promotes wound healing;
- aucubin glycoside, which stimulates the functions of the gastrointestinal tract;
- oleanolic acid, which improves blood circulation.
There are various mineral salts, pectin, fatty acids. There are vitamins C, K, carotene, steroid saponins. Medicinal properties:
- anti-inflammatory;
- softening;
- restorative;
- wound healing;
- antibiotic;
- antiseptic;
- antispasmodic.
Medicines made from psyllium seed help relieve inflammation and quickly heal skin lesions.
They lower cholesterol concentrations. Helps improve diabetes by reducing sugar levels. They are used to prevent cardiovascular pathologies.
Plantain helps in the treatment of cough, infertility, hormonal deficiency, hypertension, prostatitis. This type of medicinal raw material is valued for its sorbing qualities, which make it possible to use it in the development of constipation.
Dosage forms based on psyllium seed help soften fecal compactions and activate intestinal peristalsis. They act gently without pain during bowel movements. The foliage of this common plant has a mild laxative effect.
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Effect of psyllium seeds on constipation
The main effect is due to the softening of feces and their further passage through the intestines. Plantain seeds, entering the intestine, draw liquid onto themselves and increase the amount of feces, simultaneously softening them. The seeds also help improve intestinal motility.
Plantain seeds are often used in folk medicine for constipation.
All toxins that were formed due to stagnation of feces are absorbed by plantain seeds and are also eliminated from the body. The effect of the product is mild, the patient does not have false urges to defecate or pain during the bowel movement. This is an advantage over drug treatment.
Plantain for constipation - medicinal properties, recipes, reviews
A sedentary lifestyle and lack of fiber in the diet lead to constipation.
The problem of constipation is quite common, so many people are in search of a laxative that is effective, harmless, mild and non-addictive.
Plantain is just such a remedy; for constipation, the seeds of the plant are used, which have a complex effect on the gastrointestinal tract, normalizing intestinal function.
Description of plants
Many people have known about the healing properties of plantain since childhood, when they applied its wide leaves to abrasions and scratches. This plant is familiar to everyone - the great plantain; it is one of the most valuable medicinal herbs. However, it is not used in the treatment of constipation. To combat constipation, seeds of other types of plantain are used - sandy (flea) and ovoid (isphagula).
Sand plantain is a herbaceous annual with a branched stem up to 0.4 m high and thin linear leaves similar to pine needles. White inconspicuous inflorescences resemble small cones in shape, growing several at the ends of the shoots. This species grows on sandy and rocky soils in temperate climate zones of Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Ovate plantain is a compact herbaceous annual with a rosette of narrow elongated leaves and long peduncles bearing one ovoid inflorescence. The seeds of this species have an unusual color - they are pale pink with a cherry stripe.
This species is not found on the territory of the Russian Federation; it grows in the Mediterranean countries, the Canary Islands, South Asia, Transcaucasia, and some states of the USA.
Recipe for home use
You can prepare several types of constipation remedies based on plantain and its seeds. The optimal recipe is selected empirically. The dosage does not depend on the age or stage of the patient's disease. All products are easy to prepare and use. During pregnancy, taking plantain is not recommended, but the drug itself does not pass into mother's milk and does not accumulate in the body.
There is a recipe that allows you to use plantain seeds in their pure form. You need to eat 10 grams of seeds on an empty stomach, after chewing them and drinking a glass of cold water. Before going to bed, you must repeat the procedure. You can take this remedy for one to three days. The effect will appear at this time, it will be quite mild.
The seeds contain a large amount of mucus, which causes a laxative effect and has a good effect on the entire gastrointestinal tract.
Decoctions
To prepare a decoction of plantain seeds you will need:
- 50 g seeds;
- 2 glasses of water.
Mix the ingredients and place on low heat. After the solution boils, it is necessary to cook the mixture for 15 minutes, and then, after removing from the heat, the drug is infused for two hours. Then the medicine cools down, it must be filtered and taken in the morning or evening before bed. The approximate effect is expected after 8 – 10 hours.
Infusion on water
The plant has a specific taste, so you can prepare an infusion so as not to consume the seeds in their pure form. This remedy is suitable for treating children. For 10 grams of seeds you will need 1 liter of boiling water. The mixture must be infused in a thermos, without first crushing the seeds. Once ready, it’s easy to strain the solution. After three hours of infusion, the drug can be used on an empty stomach or before bedtime, one glass for two to three days. The effect appears on the second day of regular use.
Plantain seeds can be mixed with dill to increase efficiency. This remedy will act quickly and actively, about an hour to an hour and a half after use. The dosage of the components is as follows: 1 tablespoon of plantain seeds is combined with 10 grams of dill seeds. The mixture is poured into a glass of boiling water. You need to infuse the liquid in a thermos for three hours, and then take it once.
Plantain for constipation is consumed in the form of powder, infusions and various decoctions.
Douching solutions
You can prepare douching solutions from plantain. They help with inflammatory processes, as well as gynecological pathologies. This recipe can be used not only for preparing a solution for douching, but also for a set of baths. You need to mix plantain seeds with chamomile and then pour in 400 ml of boiling water. After an hour and a half, the infusion must be filtered, cooled and used for its intended purpose.
Recipes for internal use
It will be possible to achieve the predicted result of improving bowel movements with the help of plantain if you consult a doctor before starting healing measures. This will allow you to select the most effective methods from the collection of traditional treatments and make your own cleansing products at home.
Powder
Dried plantain seeds are thoroughly ground using a coffee grinder to a fine powder.
You should take 1/4 tsp. before breakfast, lunch, dinner. Take with a cup of warm water. During this therapy, drink about two liters of purified water per day.
Powdered plantain grains help soften hardened stool and safely remove it from the intestines.
Whole plantain seeds will also help. Eat, chew thoroughly, 10 grams of dried raw material in the morning on an empty stomach. Immediately drink a glass of cool water. This session is repeated before bedtime. Treatment of non-chronic constipation lasts 1-3 days.
Dried plantain leaves can be used to obtain a laxative effect. They are ground in a mortar. The powder should be taken 30-35 minutes before breakfast, lunch, dinner, 1/4 teaspoon. Immediately drink water - 1-1.5 glasses.
Decoction
For constipation that occurs periodically, it is recommended to use plantain decoction, which is prepared in accordance with proven folk recipes.
- Pour 50 grams of dried plantain seed into an enamel saucepan with 400 ml of boiling water. Reducing the heat to a minimum, simmer the mixture for a quarter of an hour. The dishes removed from the stove are covered with a double linen napkin and left for two hours. Then squeeze the broth through double gauze. Drink before bed. The predicted laxative effect is observed on average after 8-9 hours.
- Bring 250 ml of water to a vigorous boil in an enamel bowl. Pour 1 tbsp into it. l. dried plantain seed. After boiling for two minutes, remove the container and cool. The filtered decoction is drunk in the morning after waking up.
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Infusion
If you have difficulty defecating for two or three days, you can use a recipe for making an infusion. The raw material is dried plantain seeds.
Measure out 10 grams of raw materials. Pour it into a thermos and steam it with a liter of actively boiling water. After three hours, the laxative infusion is expressed through a strainer. You should drink a glass of it before bed or in the morning on an empty stomach. Activation of peristalsis is observed after two to three days of regular use.
With dill
In order to enhance the cleansing effect of the product, it is recommended to combine two types of dried seeds: plantain and dill - 1 tbsp. spoon.
The mixture is placed in a thermos. Pour in a glass of boiling water. Leave to infuse for three hours. The drink, filtered through a strainer, is drunk in full at night.
With chamomile and calendula
To provide a gentle effect on the intestines to eliminate constipation, combine plantain seed with calendula inflorescences - 1 tbsp. l. and chamomile flower baskets - 2 tbsp. spoons.
The mixture is placed in a heat-resistant container. Steam 1/2 liter of actively boiling water. After 15 minutes, squeeze out the liquid fraction through double-folded gauze. Drink 200 ml of infusion every eight hours.
When should you not use plantain seeds?
Plantain seeds are a herbal remedy that has a number of contraindications.
It is not recommended to prescribe plantain-based components and preparations in case of the following pathologies and conditions:
- hyperacidity of gastric juice;
- stomach and duodenal ulcers;
- tendency to thrombosis and thromboembolism;
- violation of hemostasis;
- pregnancy;
- tumor processes of the intestine;
- patient age under 6 years;
- individual intolerance and allergy to plantain.
If contraindications are neglected, pathological conditions will worsen, or undesirable reactions from the body will appear. If constipation is caused by mechanical or obstructive intestinal obstruction, then taking any drugs with a laxative effect is prohibited. It is important to find out the cause of constipation before taking psyllium.
Undesirable effects
Side effects from frequent use of seeds are as follows:
- Development of allergic reactions to medications containing plantain;
- Dyspeptic disorders when taken orally.
These effects occur extremely rarely. They appear only in case of uncontrolled use. It is important to remember that the use of any drug prepared at home requires consultation with a specialist.
Many people know about the beneficial and medicinal properties of plantain leaf and are often used for treatment. Few people realize that its seeds and husks are no less useful.
It grows almost everywhere. Even in places where it seems like nothing should grow.
It is well known as the first remedy for cuts and insect bites. If there is no first aid kit, and a plantain grows nearby, many people apply leaves to the wound or the site of an insect bite.
Plantain is an excellent remedy for coughs and stomach diseases. Helps with gum inflammation and toothache.
But not many people know about the medicinal properties of seeds. They don’t even suspect that they have no less beneficial properties than leaves. And they can be difficult to find in a pharmacy. Meanwhile, this is an excellent way to cleanse the intestines of waste and toxins. And not only.
Read on the topic: Expensive medicinal properties and contraindications
Treatment with plantain seeds
Traditional medicine recommends its use for the treatment of many diseases.
Treatment of the gastrointestinal tract
If the gastrointestinal tract is disrupted, you can take the seeds with water, prepare decoctions and infusions.
Cleansing the body
Pour 3-10 grams of seeds with water or compote. Leave to swell for four to six hours. Then drink them along with the liquid in which they were soaked, half an hour before meals or an hour and a half after meals. Do not forget to drink enough clean water, at least two liters per day.
The seeds swell in the intestines and absorb water from the body. If its quantity is insufficient, it can lead to dehydration, constipation, and even suffocation.
For diarrhea
For diarrhea and intestinal upset, you need to take about 40 grams of plantain seeds during the day. They bind toxins and poisonous substances and remove them from the body.
For constipation
Oddly enough, they can help with constipation. To treat constipation, grind into powder. Take 0.5 teaspoon before meals with water. The course of treatment is until the problem disappears, i.e. normalization of intestinal function.
You can prepare a decoction. For this, pour 5 tablespoons of seeds into a glass of boiling water. Place on low heat. Simmer for about an hour, so that the boiling is barely noticeable.
Drink 50 ml of decoction before meals until the problem disappears.
Treatment of the gastric mucosa
Pour 25 grams of seeds into a glass of hot water and stir for a long time. Then strain. Drink a tablespoon of decoction before meals three times a day.
The decoction and infusion can also be taken for constipation, spasms of the smooth muscles of the stomach and intestines.
Skin diseases
For skin lesions or mucous membranes, wounds, cracks, etc., poultices are made from the infusion. Pour a tablespoon of seeds with water and leave to swell. Then crush and apply to the affected area.
They gargle with the decoction, wash the wounds, apply a compress to relieve itching, inflammation after insect bites, and heal calluses.
Infertility treatment
For female infertility, drink a decoction of seeds, one tablespoon three times a day. The course of treatment is one or two months. The decoction can be taken for diabetes to normalize blood sugar.
Upper respiratory tract diseases, asthma
To treat asthma in children, green, not yet ripened seeds are used. They are collected immediately after flowering.
Peel off the husks and grind into a paste, which is diluted with water. Give to the child five times a day.
To achieve the best effect, traditional healers recommend wrapping the child’s feet with plantain leaves soaked in vinegar and water at night. The proportions of vinegar and water are 1:1.
In adults, asthma is treated with a decoction. A decoction is prepared from 1 teaspoon of seeds, which is poured with 100 ml of hot water. Infuse and drink 3 times a day before meals.
For bronchitis
Plantain seed helps with bronchitis and cough. As an expectorant, they thin out mucus and allow sputum to clear out better, cleansing the bronchi and lungs.
To prepare the decoction, you need to brew a teaspoon of seeds with a glass of boiling water. Cover the jar with a lid and let it brew for 15-30 minutes. Strain and drink one tablespoon before meals.
Psyllium Husk - Health Benefits
Let's look at five proven beneficial properties of psyllium.
Relieves constipation and diarrhea
Constipation is a very common health problem. Chronic constipation is especially common in adults over 60, with symptoms affecting up to 50% of nursing home residents. Scientific research recommends supplemental fiber intake in the form of psyllium to improve symptoms and relieve constipation naturally (). Psyllium is recommended to be used instead of magnesium-based laxatives, which should be avoided due to potential toxicity.
When combined with water or other liquid, psyllium husks swell and produce more volume, which stimulates intestinal contractions and helps speed up the passage of stool through the digestive tract. Psyllium has also been found to be superior to docusate sodium for stool softening by increasing stool water content and to have greater overall laxative effectiveness ().
Since psyllium husk helps ease elimination, it also helps naturally treat hemorrhoids, which are often the result of constipation. Psyllium can also be used to relieve mild to moderate diarrhea. Psyllium husk will benefit people suffering from diarrhea because it absorbs a significant amount of water in the digestive tract, which helps make stool firmer and pass through the system more slowly.
How to drink psyllium for constipation – 1 tbsp. Dissolve a spoonful in a glass of clean water at room temperature and drink 30 minutes before bedtime. Course – 1 week.
Reduces cholesterol levels
Research shows that psyllium husk is a therapeutic addition to a healthy diet and lifestyle for people struggling with high cholesterol.
In one experiment, all subjects maintained their usual diet, which provided less than 300 milligrams of cholesterol per day and approximately 20% energy from protein, 40% from carbohydrates, and 40% from fat (). The study found that eight weeks of psyllium treatment reduced serum total cholesterol levels by 14.8%. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels decreased by 20.2% and the LDL-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio decreased by 14.8% compared to baseline values. The reductions in total and LDL cholesterol gradually increased over time, and this trend appeared to continue into the eighth week.
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Another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association examined the benefits of psyllium husk as an adjuvant therapy for people with low to moderately high cholesterol. The study found that compared to placebo, psyllium achieved a 4.8% reduction in total cholesterol and an 8.2% reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, clearly demonstrating the ability of psyllium husk to lower cholesterol levels naturally ().
How to drink psyllium to normalize cholesterol - dissolve 1 teaspoon in a glass of warm clean water and drink 1 hour before bedtime. Course – 4 weeks.
Helps manage blood sugar levels
Psyllium may help current diabetics as well as people trying to prevent diabetes, as consuming fibers such as psyllium husk can help maintain a healthy glycemic balance in the body.
One study evaluated the effects of psyllium husk fiber on lipid and glucose levels as an adjunct to dietary and drug therapy in patients with type II diabetes. A study found that taking psyllium every day may help patients with type II diabetes control their blood sugar levels without negative side effects ().
Another study found similar results indicating a beneficial therapeutic effect of psyllium in the metabolic control of type II diabetics. Psyllium husk certainly looks like a wise choice for the everyday task of controlling blood sugar levels and is also a natural remedy for diabetes.
How to drink psyllium to prevent diabetes - dissolve 1 teaspoon in a glass of warm clean water, stir and drink 1 hour before breakfast. Course – 2 weeks.
Improves heart health and blood pressure
Adding high-fiber foods such as psyllium husk to your diet has benefits in reducing the risk of heart disease. More specifically, a diet high in soluble fiber, such as psyllium, is associated with lower triglyceride levels and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. A study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition assessed the effects of psyllium on patients with type II diabetes and found that psyllium not only improved blood sugar levels, but also reduced the risk of coronary heart disease ().
Psyllium has also been shown to improve hypertension, or high blood pressure, which has a direct negative impact on heart health. Hypertension affects 30% of the population and is a preventable disease.
One of the main ways to prevent hypertension is to eat a healthy diet. In one experiment, six months of taking psyllium fiber significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in overweight hypertensive people ().
How to drink psyllium to prevent heart disease - dissolve 1 teaspoon in a glass of water and drink 30 minutes before bedtime. Course – 1 month.
Helps with weight loss
In our society, obesity is the most common health problem affecting all age groups. It leads to many serious health problems, including diabetes and chronic heart disease. Are there any benefits of psyllium (psyllium) seed husk for weight loss? Psyllium husk is on the list of medicinal plants that have been shown to significantly reduce body weight ().
Psyllium can be very helpful in maintaining and achieving a healthy weight as it creates a feeling of fullness when consumed. Since we naturally eat less when we feel full, adding extra fiber to our diet in the form of psyllium husk can help prevent overeating and naturally treat obesity.
Additionally, psyllium husk's ability to enhance the body's natural elimination process has a positive effect on weight as waste is eliminated faster and regularly from the body. A study published in Clinical and Experimental Hypertension in August 2007 found that supplementing with psyllium over a six-month period resulted in a decrease in body mass index (BMI).
If you are trying to lose weight quickly and want to control overeating during meals, you can take psyllium husk shortly before or during meals. Research suggests that supplementing with functional fibers such as psyllium should be considered as a tool for improving success in weight loss diets.
How to drink psyllium for weight loss - dissolve 1 teaspoon in a glass of water and drink 30 minutes before dinner. Course – 1 month.
Plantain seeds for women
Plantain seeds contain a fairly large amount of useful mineral salts, which have a beneficial effect on the female reproductive organs.
Help with:
Hormonal imbalance;
Inflammation of the appendages;
Gynecological bleeding;
Spikes;
Menstrual irregularities.
In folk medicine, it is recommended to use it to treat infertility in both women and men. Women have better treatment results than men.
This does not mean that men can neglect such treatment. It must be remembered that the seeds have a good cleansing and healing effect on the body as a whole. In addition, they increase libido in both sexes.
The course of infertility treatment ranges from six months to one year. Take the decoction for conception in courses of 1-2 months with a break.
It is prepared from one tablespoon of seeds brewed with a glass of boiling water. Leave for at least 30 minutes and strain. Drink 3 times a day before meals for one or two months.
The decoction will be useful for men as a prevention of impotence and prostate disease, especially after 35 years.
Side effects of taking psyllium husk
Overall, taking psyllium husk is associated with very few side effects. The most common is some mild and temporary discomfort in the intestines. [, , , ]
However, there are a few cases you should be aware of:
- Two clinical studies involving a total of 11 nurses diagnosed with occupational asthma associated with psyllium exposure showed:
- One of them studied 5 nurses who had asthma symptoms after preparing a drink for their patients from psyllium husks. All of them were found to have IgE antibodies to plantain , and symptoms of difficulty breathing. One nurse experienced reactive airway closure and required 3 hours of assisted ventilation. []
- Another study examined the response of nurses with asthmatic symptoms to the oral administration of psyllium husk. All 6 participants in this study developed respiratory symptoms requiring urgent medical attention. []
- One study of a 40-year-old woman who took a laxative containing psyllium seed for 2 years found that the woman developed itching all over her body except her face. The symptoms stopped when psyllium was removed from the list of medications taken. This woman was found to have IgE antibodies to plantain. It is important to note that her sensitivity was related to the psyllium protein and was likely due to internal exposure to the seeds rather than their husks .[]
- In one case, a patient taking oral lithium (a drug to treat bipolar disorder) experienced a decrease in lithium blood levels when taking psyllium husk , which returned to normal after stopping the psyllium. []
- Four patients developed small bowel obstruction after using psyllium as an oral contrast agent for CT or MRI. The conclusion was that caution should be used when using psyllium husk in people with suspected intestinal strictures or active intestinal inflammation. []
- Doses of 5-10 grams of psyllium husk taken 3 times daily did not result in serious side effects. However, cramping, gas, or bloating may occur when using psyllium seeds. [, , ]
- Plantain has also been able to delay the absorption of some medications. Therefore, it is not recommended to take psyllium husk with all other medications.
- Although rare, some allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing may occur as a result of taking psyllium. [, ]
Plantain seeds in cosmetology
Firstly, as has been noted more than once in this article, plantain seeds are good at cleansing the body of toxins and waste. And this cannot but affect the appearance. After all, often the cause of skin rashes, acne, pimples, boils lies precisely in the slagging of the body. By cleansing the body, you can get rid of many problems in this way.
Secondly, they contain mucus, which gently envelops the tissues, relieves the process of inflammation, helps wounds and cuts heal faster, including spots from acne and blackheads. A lotion made from them is especially useful for oily, porous skin.
Helps with oily scalp, seborrhea, dandruff. Rinse your hair with the broth after washing.
Easy to prepare. Pour one tablespoon of seeds into one liter of hot water and leave. Then strain and the product is ready for use.
Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk is the outer covering of the seed. It has the same medicinal properties as the seed. Used as a laxative for constipation. Helps with diarrhea, irritable bowel, hemorrhoids, removes cholesterol.
In Chinese and Indian medicine, the husk is used for bladder problems.
Like seeds, it is rich in insoluble fibers, which absorb all toxins and wastes and remove them from the body.
This property can be used to cleanse the body when losing weight.
It has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system and reduces the risk of cancer.
When consumed for weight loss, the husk gives a feeling of fullness and has an amazing effect on metabolism. It contains spongy fiber, which suppresses appetite.
To lose weight, simply add a teaspoon to a glass of water, juice or compote.
For constipation, husks, which are high in fiber, help increase the volume of stool and move it along the intestines, causing a reflex contraction of the intestinal wall.
For mild constipation, add a teaspoon to a glass of warm water, milk or juice. Take 3 times daily before meals.
For strong ones - two teaspoons. Remember to drink enough water, at least 6-8 glasses a day. It’s better to immediately drink a glass of clean water after taking it.
The husk, cleansing the intestines of toxins, removes all pathogenic microflora without affecting the beneficial ones, and stimulates the growth of bifidobacteria.
Recently, it has been included in many new diets and weight loss medications. Why overpay when you can buy or prepare it yourself.
Treatment of constipation with psyllium husk
The husk of plantain seeds (psyllium), which contains a large amount of fiber, is successfully used to solve the problem of difficulty with bowel movements. Purchase this raw material at the pharmacy.
When it enters the intestine, the husk has a beneficial effect on its functions, intensifying peristalsis. This effect makes it easier to remove compacted slag deposits, which improves overall health.
For mild constipation that is not chronic, stir 1 tbsp. l. psyllium in a glass of milk. You can use juice or water. Drink this portion before breakfast, lunch, dinner, observing a time interval of 25-30 minutes.
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In order to get rid of persistent constipation, the amount of plantain husk per glass of drink is doubled.
It is imperative that when carrying out therapeutic measures at home with this type of medicinal raw material, the drinking regime is observed. Drink about two liters of filtered water per day.
Contraindications for use
Although psyllium seeds and husks, like the herb itself, are generally harmless, there are a number of restrictions when you should avoid taking them and consult a doctor.
These include:
Presence of thrombosis;
Allergy to the plant;
Increased stomach acidity.
You should not undergo treatment during pregnancy. Although they do not have significant negative effects, you should consult your doctor before using them.