Isabgol is otherwise called “psyllium” husk. It is a dietary fibre mostly used to promote defecation. This natural polymer is obtained from the plant “Plantago ovata Forsk” seed. The plant originated from Western Asia as an annual herb. Along with fibre, it owns an abundance of mucilage. Its dietary fibre is used widely in processed foods, homely foods and pharmacological supplements. This gluey, oily, astringent taste husk promotes many health benefits. While reading this article you will know about the benefits of Isabgol briefly. Without further delay, we shall start to read it.
How does Isabgol benefits in common health problems?
- Soothes bowel problems
It eases and manages bowel diseases like irritable bowel syndrome, uncreative colitis due to constipation and inflammatory bowel problems. Its fibre undergoes anaerobic fermentation in the intestines which results in a large production of metabolites. The resultant, metabolites possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Isabgol slows down the colon transit and the intestinal emptying timer. This immensely helps people who suffer from faecal incontinence and diarrhea. This husk well treats people with flatulence, bloating, abdominal cramps and pain due to severe constipation and eases defecation.
- Prevents from Piles
Many of us suffer from piles due to the chronic constipation condition. Isabgol benefits people with piles by absorbing and retaining water in the colon. The herb tends to stimulate intestinal contraction and peristaltic movements because of its laxative nature. It makes the stool soft and easy to let out. This helps to reduce the bleeding associated with piles. As Isabgol softens the stools, you may not stretch the anus sphincter muscles excessively. Even you may be safe from the rupturing of healing wounds. Generally, people take it before bedtime with warm water. So, the next day defecation becomes easy without any stress.
- Helps in weight loss
Since Isabgol has an abundance of fibre content, it helps in weight loss. Consuming the husk in powder form, makes you feel filled and reduces your appetite. So, in between meals, you may not feel hungry and it cuts out your frequent snacking. Isabgol helps manage fat by decreasing LDL and controlling the overall calorie intake.
- Improves sperm production
Nutrients are essential for sperm production and health. They have an important role in treating male infertility. Isabgol’s nutritive properties help a male sperm by increasing its counts. It also extends orgasm and thickens the semen and prevents premature ejaculation. So, men can experience improved libido by using this supernatural herb. Drinking 2-3 teaspoons of Isabgol whole seeds with a glass of hot milk improve sperm counts.
- Helps for skin care
Isabgol benefits even the skin. It treats acne and pimples well and unclogs pores. When applying its paste or gel over the skin, excessive oil is absorbed and production is reduced. It cleans very deep into the skin layers and keeps you away from dust, and dirt. Mixing and applying it with almond oil, aloe vera or honey deeply cleanses your skin and keeps moisture. As an exfoliator, it removes dead cells completely and maintains the skin tone shiny and bright. Isabgol face mask is the best home ready to maintain your skin health fresh always.
- Controls Diabetes
Isabgol regulates sugar levels among diabetic people. It does not only decrease sugar spikes but also improves the absorption of anti-diabetic medicines. Since it slows down the breakdown process and glucose absorption, blood sugar starts to control. It improves cholesterol levels in diabetics and proves fibre-rich diets can reduce insulin and blood sugar levels. For people who are at risk of diabetes, consuming Isabgol reduce the possibilities. As per a study, intake of 5 gm of Isabgol twice a day controlled the blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetics.
- Treats high cholesterol
Consumption of Isabgol makes the heart function good through its hygroscopic traits. It avoids cholesterol consumption from the food and lowers the serum cholesterol amount in the blood and forms a thin layer around intestinal walls. It helps in reducing cholesterol by adding it to a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet soluble fibre including oat bran and flaxseed.
Side effects
We have seen the benefits of Isabgol, some people experience side effects of Isabgol consumption also. When you experience such adverse side effects, stop immediately and consult a doctor. The general side effects of Isabgol are:
- When consuming insufficient water leads to blockage in the throat or esophagus.
- Insufficient water intake even obstructs intestinal functions that might lead to bloating, cramps and abdominal pain
- It may cause serious allergic reactions in rare cases. If you experience any symptoms of itching, rashes, dizziness, choking throat, swollen face and tongue, or troubled breathing, consult the doctor immediately to avoid further potential problems.
- Isabgol consumption must be avoided in case one is suffering from throat problems and Parkinson’s disease.
- Patients with diabetes must take extra care during isabgol consumption as it is likely to reduce the blood glucose levels. Thus, such patients must monitor the blood glucose levels after consuming isabgol. If the levels are low avoid its consumption before it worsen the situation.
- Isabgol is also known to change blood pressure and thus patients with history of blood pressure should avoid its consumption or monitor the blood pressure changes after its consumption. In case of any issues consult doctor immediately
Conclusion
Isabgol has been used for centuries for treating bowel problems. This is one of the best fibre-rich sources to avoid many health complications like obesity, constipation, reducing high cholesterol etc. But excessive consumption of anything is bad. Isabgol excessive consumption can cause diarrhea and can cause fluctuation in sugar levels, blood pressure. Recommended dosage of it must be strictly followed. However, if you feel something unpleasant in your biological system, better skip it and consult your doctor immediately.
