PROPER NAME:	Psyllium
COMMON NAMES:	Branching plantain, flea seed, flea wort, spogel
PARTS USED:	Ripe seeds of plantago plant, found in India and the Mediterranean
FORMS:	Powder, granules, chewable tablets, wafers. Often added to cereals
CLAIMS:	Laxative, bulk-forming Psyllium has several uses. The most common uses are as demulcents and bulk laxatives to alleviate CONSTIPATION. Psyllium assists with colitis and anal fissures or ulcers and hemorrhoids. It cleanses the bowel and intestines and removes toxins, aids in disease prevention. When the seed is soaked in water, it will form a gel-like substance that will lubricate the intestines and stimulate normal muscular bowel function without gripping and cramping. Psyllium has been found effective in lowering total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) CHOLESTEROL by binding to cholesterol compound (bile acids) in the intestine resulting in their excretion form the body. Studies have shown that when psyllium is mixed with food it has greater cholesterol lowering effects. Psyllium has been shown to help control OBESITY because the fiber displaces calories and is low in fat. This fiber holds water in the stomach and can give a sense of fullness. Studies have shown that psyllium significantly slowed gastric emptying therefore delaying feelings of hunger. Many studies have shown that psyllium can help control blood sugars in DIABETES because it decreases the absorption process of nutrient digestion in the intestine. This decreases the rate which sugar is absorbed by the body. Diabetics should also take caution when adding psyllium to their diet because the extra fiber is carbohydrate as well and may cause an increase in blood sugars. When used in place of other carbohydrates, it is most effective.
DOSAGE:	Often used in medications such as: isogel, fiberall, ispaghule gum, metamucil, plantaglucide, perdiem fiber, plantago seed, reguval, and ispaghula. Usually dissolved in water, milk, or juice.
SIDE EFFECTS:	Because Psyllium is purely a plant product, there are not any side effects of normal dosages. Though, it is important to remember that when increasing fiber in the diet, extra fluids should also be increased to prevent constipation. The recommended amount of water is 6-8 cups everyday. Some may experience decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea, and flatulence but these are not common when taken properly. Psyllium may produce a food/drug interaction with lithium, beta-blockers, digitalis, and calcium channel-blockers.

PSYLLIUM REFERENCES:

The Alternative Advisor. Virginia: Time Life Books, 1997.

Physicians Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines. New Jersey: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.

Fetrow, C.H., Avila, J.R. Professional’s handbook of Complementary and Alternative medicines. Pennsylvania: Springhouse Corporation, 1999.

Disclaimer:
This article is intended to provide basic information only. It is not a recommendation for use or endorsement of any product listed, by the Southeastern Michigan Dietetic Association. Please consult your physician or a health professional before taking any medications or supplements.

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