Isabgol, also known as Psyllium husk, is one of the most popular home remedies used for constipation. The husk is derived from the seeds of the Isabgol plant. It is said that Isabgol was introduced to India by the Mughals. Today, however, India is one of the major producers of Isabgol in the world.
In Ayurveda, Isabgol is called ‘Snigdhbeej’ – Snigdha means ‘lubricating’, and Beej means ‘seed’. It has been named for its qualities. When consumed Isabgol lubricates the digestive tract, works as a dietary fiber and promotes easy motions. Isabgol also encourages proper urination and reduces excess pitta as well as inflammation. It helps heal wounds in the digestive tract caused due to excess bile secretion or hyperacidity.
Isabgol also stimulates intestinal contractions and peristaltic movements (involuntary wave-like motion in the intestines that pushes food material through the digestive tract) which helps in the passage of stools.
Here are some common ways to use Isabgol safely at home to help with health problems.
- Isabgol has capacity to absorb and retain 40 times its volume of water. Therefore, when soaked in water, the husk becomes bulky. Similarly, when consumed, Iasabgol gives bulk to stool, layers the intestines and protects them from acidic secretions. Isabgol is thus used to treat hyperacidity and peptic ulcers with great success.
- 1 teaspoon of Isabgol with water and sugar helps to heal ulcers and reduce burning sensations or pain due to ulcers.
- For gout – Isabgol helps to reduce inflammation and is also cooling and lubricating. Apply a paste of water and Isabgol on gout to relieve pain, reduce redness and swelling.
- For fissures and bleeding piles – take 1 teaspoon of Isabgol with buttermilk and sugar to reduce swelling, heat and dryness.
- In case of a headache due to excess pitta, especially at night, soak 1 teaspoon of Isabgol in water overnight, add a cup of milk and stone sugar in the morning and drink before breakfast. This will help to have 1 or 2 proper motions and expel the excess pitta in the system.
- In the case of burning urination or blood in urine, Isabgol is very effective. One can take 1 teaspoon of Isabgol with coconut water twice a day.
Santulan Ayurveda’s SanCool contains Isabgol along with Avipattikar which improves digestion and acts as a mild laxative. SanCool contains the benefits of Isabgol along with these improvements.
As per Ayurveda, everything in the world has good qualities. But one must be aware of using anything in excess. It is not recommended to use Isabgol only by itself for long duration, as it can lead to dysentery or diarrhea. Please consult an expert Ayurveda Vaidya or doctor before using this very helpful herb for extended periods of time.
We hope you can use this excellent herb in the right way for relief from small problems at home.