Psyllium Husk is basically fiber as it is essentially made up of complex carbohydrates. Psyllium Husk is extracted from Psyllium, a plant. It’s the coating around the seed of the Psyllium plant, so it’s completely natural. The seeds are used for other ailments in which the husks are taken and inserted inside capsules or converted into powder.
Psyllium is important for many reasons. Since it contains carbohydrates, it can help diarrhea, ease the pain of hemorrhoids and cystitis. They have anti-inflammatory properties, and can be beneficial for those with diabetes. Other benefits are, it aids in weight loss control, maintains healthy cholesterol levels, maintains healthy blood pressure levels, treats IBS and hemorrhoids, treats yeast infections and pushes out mucoid plaque.
It’s main benefit, however is in preventing constipation and promoting colon health. The natural fiber in Psyllium increases the weight of our bowels, and acts as a safe laxative. In fact, Psyllium Husk is present in many over the counter laxatives. The husk swells when it comes in contact with water. It can absorb anything that is 8-16 times its weight. Its bulky fiber qualities makes it an effective laxative. Psyllium Husk forms a gelatin-like mass in the colon, which keeps the bowels nice and soft. This mass also helps absorbs toxins located in our bowels. The bulky substance formed by Psyllium Husks stimulates peristalsis, which aids constipation.
Psyllium Husks can be taken alone, or with Bentonite Clay or Activated Charcoal as part of a colon cleansing regimen. You usually mix one tablespoon of it with water.
Guidelines when Consuming Psyllium Husk1. Make sure you consume it with liquid. Do not eat it alone as it can cause digestive problems. You can mix Psyllium Husk with practically anything: fruit/veggie juice, stew, soups, ice cream shakes, water, milk, etc.
2. Make sure you consume plenty of liquid before and afterwards. Psyllium Husk can cause dehydration since it makes the moisture content of our bowels higher. It would be good to keep an extra glass of water handy when consuming Psyllium Husk for the first time, because it can be hard to swallow.
3. Psyllium Husk is not recommended for those who are pregnant. Oxypowder would be the best choice for a colon cleanser.
4. Consume Psyllium Husk in between meals, never immediately after or before one. It can dilute enzymes and therefore interfer with digestion.