Psyllium may be the name that people recognize in terms of herbal supplements and dietary enhancers, but the this is actually a catch-all name for plants from the Plantago genus. The seeds of these plants, which are typically small herbaceous plants, are highly valuable because they can be turned into mucilage, the most common form of psyllium that is consumed. Psyllium is a natural dietary fiber, and while many people think of it as a pure laxative, it has a number of other effects on the body that makes it so valuable. Psyllium plants grow primarily in Asia, and India is the world’s largest producer and exporter of psyllium husks.

Health Benefits of Psyllium
Weight Loss Issues:
One of the best things about dietary fiber is that it creates the feeling of fullness, and that sense of satiety is very important for people looking to cut down on their weight. By preventing between-meal snacking, psyllium supplements can keep your energy levels up without adding on the pounds. Oat bran often contains psyllium, and is a popular choice as a healthy snack.

Digestive Problems:
The main function of psyllium is to improve the functionality and efficiency of the digestive system, namely by binding with water in the gut. If you are suffering from diarrhea, psyllium can help to bulk up your stool and normalize your bowel movements. If you struggle with constipation issues, psyllium can also help reduce that discomfort, as it can stimulate peristaltic motion and keep your bowels moving smoothly. It can also help reduce straining and inflammation, which can help eliminate Hemorrhoids and gastric ulcers.

Diabetes Prevention:
Psyllium also has a proven effect on blood sugar levels, which is important for everyone, whether or not your suffer from diabetes. By regulating the release of insulin into the bloodstream, and keeping blood sugar levels steady, psyllium can help prevent the onset of Diabetes, as it reduces the chances of major spikes and plunges. For people who are living with diabetes, adding psyllium to your diet can help keep you healthy.

Blood Pressure:
In various studies of dietary fibers, associations between blood pressure and fiber have been suggested, but psyllium is one of the few compounds that is consistently shown to reduce blood pressure in those who regularly consume it. Although you can’t call it a vasodilator, necessarily, psyllium can certainly ease the tension on blood vessels and arteries of the heart.

Cholesterol Reduction:
As is the case for other types of dietary fiber, psyllium can significantly affect the health of the heart by lowering cholesterol. Excess dietary fiber works to decreases the amount of cholesterol absorbed from food, preventing it from sticking in the arteries and blood vessels. This helps to reduce the chances of atherosclerosis and the consequent heart issues that can arise. It does not, however, reduce the amounts of good cholesterol (HDL), which keeps your cholesterol levels balanced and healthy. Furthermore, psyllium stimulates the production of bile, which further uses cholesterol.