Psyllium Husk – Food Division

Psyllium is obtained from plantage ovate or Psyllium plant. Psyllium plant grows in those regions which have abundant sunlight, and well drained and sandy soil. This is an annual crop cultivated largely in Gujarat and in some parts of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

The botanical name of Psyllium husk is Plantago Ovata, and it is better known as Isabgol in India.

Psyllium is mucilage having a combination of xylose, aucubin, galacturonic, arabinose and  semi-drying fatty oils. Psyllium husk is derived from the bent layers of dried ripe seeds of plantago ovata frosk.

The Psyllium husks are thoroughly cleaned and removed from anti-farm fibers, mud, iron particles, dust, particles, stones and other waste products. They are then graded, taking their scientific values into account, and sorted accordingly.

Psyllium consists of 80% water soluble fiber. Its mucilage has a viscosity which is undeterred by a temperature range of 68 degrees Fahrenheit to 122 degrees Fahrenheit, pH ranging from 2 to 10 and by sodium chloride level of up to 0.15m.

The properties of Psyllium Husk

• Lowers cholesterol level in blood
• Natural laxative
• Curing agent for peptic ulcers
• Constipation
• Piles
• Acidity and ulcers
• For slimming purposes
• For diarrhea, dysentery and other bowel disorders