Isabgol
Isabgol
Isabgol is a dietary fibre that helps to increase stool and promote laxation. It is one of the most commonly used home remedy for constipation. It is also used for weight loss and removing the toxins from the blood[1][2].
What are the synonyms of Isabgol?
Plantago ovata, Ispagul, Isabgul, Bartang, Isabagolu, Umto, Urthamujirum, Ghora jeeru, Ishakol, Ishapupukol, Ispagola vittulu, Ispagala, Isphagula, Eshopgol, Psyllium, Blond psyllium, Bazrequatuna, Bazrekatima, Isphaghol, Isparjah, Ispoghul, Aspsgol, Isparzah
What is the source of Isabgol?
Plant Based
Benefits of Isabgol
Modern Science View
Isabgol is beneficial in the management of constipation. Isabgol is rich in fibre content. Isabgol also has the ability to absorb and retain water. This adds bulk to the stool and makes the stool soft and easy to pass out[4][5].
Ayurvedic View
Isabgol helps to manage constipation as it is rich in fiber and adds bulk to stool due to its Guru (heavy) nature. It also stimulates intestinal contractions and peristaltic movements because of its mild Rechana (laxative) nature which helps in easy expulsion of stools.
Modern Science View
Isabgol is beneficial in managing hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are a result of chronic constipation. Isabgol is a rich source of fibres. It helps in absorbing and retaining water. This makes the stool bulky, soft and easy to pass. Thus, Isabgol manages chronic constipation that can lead to piles. It also reduces congestion and bleeding associated with hemorrhoids[4][5][7].
Ayurvedic View
Isabgol helps to manage hemorrhoids due to its Sita (cold) and Guru (heavy) properties. Isabgol also stimulates intestinal contractions and peristaltic movements because of mild Rechana (laxative) nature which helps in the passage of stools.
Modern Science View
Isabgol is beneficial in lowering cholesterol in people with high cholesterol. Isabgol has hypocholesterolemic effects. Isabgol increases the breakdown and decreases the absorption of bad cholesterol[4][5].
Ayurvedic View
Isabgol helps to reduce high cholesterol since it is rich in fiber and produces bulk due to its Guru (heavy) property. It helps remove toxins from the body and thus manage high cholesterol level.
Modern Science View
Isabgol is beneficial in managing diarrhea. Isabgol blocks the calcium ion channels and has antidiarrheal and anti-secretory properties[4][7].
Ayurvedic View
Isabgol helps to control diarrhea by absorbing the water content from the digestive tract and producing bulk, which makes the stool thick due to its Guru (heavy) property.
Tip:
Take Isabgol with curd in case of diarrhea.
Tip:
Take Isabgol with curd in case of diarrhea.
Ayurvedic View
Isabgol helps in case of Irritable bowel syndrome because it adds volume to the stool and absorbs extra water which facilitates easy passage of stool due to its Guru (heavy) nature. It also adds a layer of protective lining to the inner side of the stomach that helps in reducing hyperacidity due to its Sita (cold) nature.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol husk.
2. Mix it with curd and take this mixture right after meals.
3. Use this remedy for effective relief from diarrhea.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol husk.
2. Mix it with curd and take this mixture right after meals.
3. Use this remedy for effective relief from diarrhea.
Ayurvedic View
Isabgol helps to control obesity as it is rich in fiber and helps to clean the colon and remove toxins from the body responsible for obesity due to its Guru(heavy) nature.
Ayurvedic View
Isabgol helps in case of inflammatory bowel disease due to its property of balancing Vata and Pitta. Isabgol adds volume to the waste and absorbs extra water which facilitates easy passage of stool and controls the frequency of motion due to its Guru (heavy) nature. It also helps prevent inflammation of the intestine due to its Sita (potency).
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol Husk Powder.
2. Mix with 1 glass of lukewarm water .
3. Have it at night before going to sleep
4. To keep better digestion
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol Husk Powder.
2. Mix with 1 glass of lukewarm water .
3. Have it at night before going to sleep
4. To keep better digestion
Modern Science View
Isabgol is beneficial in managing diabetes. Isabgol reduces the sudden increase in glucose levels after meals. Isabgol also increases the absorption of other antidiabetic drugs like metformin and enhances their glucose lowering property[4-6].
Ayurvedic View
Isabgol helps to control diabetes because it slows down the process of breakdown and absorption of glucose due to its Guru (heavy) property. It also helps to improve metabolism due to its Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) reducing nature.
How effective is Isabgol?
Likely effective
Constipation, Diabetes, Diarrhoea, High cholesterol ABC, Hypertension (high blood pressure), Irritable bowel syndrome, Obesity, Piles, Ulcerative colitis
Insufficient evidence
Cancer, Cancer of colon and rectum, Crohn’s disease, Skin disorders
Precautions when using Isabgol
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
Avoid taking Isabgol if you are have throat problems or difficulty in swallowing.
Modern Science View
Consult your doctor before taking Isabgol if you have Parkinson’s disease[3].
Ayurvedic View
Take Isabgol in recommended dosage or duration as a high dose can lead to heaviness in the stomach due to its Guru (heavy) nature.
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Isabgol may lower the blood sugar levels. So it is generally advisable to monitor your blood sugar level regularly while taking Isabgol along with anti diabetic drugs[3].
Patients with heart disease
Modern Science View
Isabgol may lower the blood pressure. So it is generally advisable to monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking Isabgol along with anti hypertensive drugs[4].
alcohol
Important
Modern Science View
1. Swollen nasal passages
2. Sneezing
3. Swollen eyelids
4. Anaphylaxis
5. Skin Rashes
6. Hives[3-4]
7. Chest pain
8. Vomiting
9. Difficulty in swallowing or breathing[3].
2. Sneezing
3. Swollen eyelids
4. Anaphylaxis
5. Skin Rashes
6. Hives[3-4]
7. Chest pain
8. Vomiting
9. Difficulty in swallowing or breathing[3].
Recommended Dosage of Isabgol
- Isabgol Powder - 1-2 teaspoon once or twice a day.
- Isabgol Capsule - 1-2 Capsules once or twice a day.
How to use Isabgol
1. Isabgol Husk Powder
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol husk.
b. Mix it with curd and take this mixture right after meals.
c. Use this remedy for effective relief from diarrhea.
2. Isabgol Husk Powder with water or milk
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol Husk Powder.
b. Mix with 1 glass of lukewarm water or milk .
c. Have it at night before going to sleep
d. Use this remedy for effective relief from constipation
3. Isabgol Husk(Psyllium Husk) Capsule with water
Take 1-2 two capsules with warm water before sleeping once or after lunch and dinner.
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol husk.
b. Mix it with curd and take this mixture right after meals.
c. Use this remedy for effective relief from diarrhea.
2. Isabgol Husk Powder with water or milk
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol Husk Powder.
b. Mix with 1 glass of lukewarm water or milk .
c. Have it at night before going to sleep
d. Use this remedy for effective relief from constipation
3. Isabgol Husk(Psyllium Husk) Capsule with water
Take 1-2 two capsules with warm water before sleeping once or after lunch and dinner.
Benefits of Isabgol
1. Acne and Pimples
Isabgol gives good result in case of skin problems like acne or pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha leads to an increased sebum production and clogging of pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. Another factor, an aggravation of Pitta causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Applying Isabgol paste helps to control excessive production of sebum and removes the clogging of pores. It also helps to reduce inflammation and gives soothing effects due to its Sita (cold) and Ropan properties.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol husk and soak it in water.
b. Wait for some time to get a semi-solid mixture.
c. Add Aloe vera gel and almond oil and mix well to make a paste.
d. Apply it on the face and wait for 15-30 minutes.
e. Wash it off with cold water.
f. Repeat it once or twice a week.
Isabgol gives good result in case of skin problems like acne or pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha leads to an increased sebum production and clogging of pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. Another factor, an aggravation of Pitta causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Applying Isabgol paste helps to control excessive production of sebum and removes the clogging of pores. It also helps to reduce inflammation and gives soothing effects due to its Sita (cold) and Ropan properties.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol husk and soak it in water.
b. Wait for some time to get a semi-solid mixture.
c. Add Aloe vera gel and almond oil and mix well to make a paste.
d. Apply it on the face and wait for 15-30 minutes.
e. Wash it off with cold water.
f. Repeat it once or twice a week.
Precautions when using Isabgol
Allergy
Ayurvedic View
Isabgol should be used with honey or rose water if your skin is hypersensitive.
Recommended Dosage of Isabgol
- Isabgol Powder - 1-2 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Isabgol
1. Isabgol powder with Honey or Rose water
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Isabgol powder.
b. Mix with honey or rose water.
c. Apply it on the affected area once a day.
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Isabgol powder.
b. Mix with honey or rose water.
c. Apply it on the affected area once a day.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Yes, Isabgol can be taken with lemon. Consuming this mixture enhances the benefits of both lemon and Isabgol. It not only maintains your bowel but also help to in weight loss by reducing fats in the body.
Tip:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol Powder.
2. Add lukewarm water to it.
3. Also squeeze ½ lemon to it.
4. Drink it preferably empty stomach in the morning for maximum benefits.
Tip:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol Powder.
2. Add lukewarm water to it.
3. Also squeeze ½ lemon to it.
4. Drink it preferably empty stomach in the morning for maximum benefits.
Modern Science View
Isabgol Husk is available in the market under various brands and prices, such as
Sat Isabgol, Dabur, Patanjali, Baidyanath, Organic India, etc. The price range varies from Rs 80 to Rs 150 for 100 grams pack. You can choose the product according to your liking and requirement.
Sat Isabgol, Dabur, Patanjali, Baidyanath, Organic India, etc. The price range varies from Rs 80 to Rs 150 for 100 grams pack. You can choose the product according to your liking and requirement.
Modern Science View
Isabgol helps to keep digestion healthy and correct constipation. So if you have any digestion related problems, you can consume Isabgol for healthy bowel movement.
Modern Science View
Isabgol helps to correct constipation due to its Rechana (mild laxative) nature and should be taken after a meal at night.
Modern Science View
Isabgol helps to correct constipation due to its Rechana (mild laxative) nature. But excess consumption of Isabgol can cause diarrhea or loose motion.
Modern Science View
Yes Isabgol might lead to diarrhea if taken in high dose with warm water due to its mild Rechana (laxative) nature.
Modern Science View
Yes, Isabgol has a role in wound healing. Isabgol promotes wound healing by increasing wound contraction[7].
References
- SARFRAZ RM, KHAN H, MAHEEN S, et al. PLANTAGO OVATA: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON CULTIVATION, BIOCHEMICAL, PHARMACEUTICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL ASPECTS.Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica ñ Drug Research.2017;74(3): 739-746.
- Tewari D, Anjum N, TRIPATHI Y. PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND PHARMACOLOGY OF PLANTAGO OVATA: A NATURAL SOURCE OF LAXATIVE MEDICINE. World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research.2014;3(9):361-372.
- Ulbricht CE.Natural Standard:Herb and Supplement Guide, An Evidence Based Reference.Elsevier;2010.
- WebMD.Blond-psyllium: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.