Psyllium husk is a type of fibre that is made from the Plantago ovata plant. As the name suggests, psyllium husk comes from the husk of the plant’s seed. India is the largest producer of psyllium husk in the world. In India, it is mainly cultivated in Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Gujarat accounts for nearly 35% of the total world production of psyllium husk.
The name “Psyllium” is used for the whole plant, along with the crust and the seed. Psyllium husk is also commonly known as isabgol. Traditional Iranian medicine has been making use of psyllium for ages.
Psyllium husk is known to possess multiple health benefits for both humans and animals. Because of the high fibre content, psyllium husk can help prevent constipation. It is also known to be beneficial for the heart and can help keep diabetes under control.
Psyllium husk can be consumed in a lot of ways. Although some people find the taste of pure psyllium husk unpleasant it is also baked in cookies, biscuits and other confectionaries. Psyllium husk does not have any sugar or flavour. So it is usually recommended to consume it with water or juice.
Some basics facts about Psyllium Husk
- Botanical name: Plantago Ovata husk
- Family: Plantaginaceae
- Common name: Psyllium husk / Isabgol
- Sanskrit name: Sat Isabgol.
- Parts used: Psyllium is a form of fibre made from the husk of the psyllium plant's seeds. Plant part is used as the husk.
- Native region and geographical distribution: It is native to Asia, the Mediterranean region, and North Africa and commercially grown in India. In India, the crop is mainly cultivated in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan.