Blonde Psyllium
Plantago ovata; Plantago isphagula
Description:
The plant is an almost stemless annual with several rosettes. It is found growing in India, Afghanistan, Iran, Israel, northern Africa, Spain, Canary Islands. The ripe seeds or epidermis are the medicinal part.
Composition:
Blonde psyllium seed, which consists of the ripe seeds of Plantago ovata Forsskaol, contains bulking agents. The epidermis also contains bulking agents.
Actions:
For use in diarrhea: It increases the passage time of the bowel contents through bonding of water.
For use in constipation: It decreases the passage time of the bowel content through an increase in the volume of the stool.
It also lowers serum-cholesterol levels.
The epidermis can reduce the postprandial blood sugar increase.
Uses:
Chronic constipation. Disorders in which easy bowel movements with a loose stool are desirable (patients with anal fissures, hemorrhoids, following anal/rectal surgery, during pregnancy). A secondary medication in the treatment of diarrhea and irritable bowel. Raised cholesterol levels.
Contraindications:
Should not be used in patients with narrowing (stenosis) of the gastrointestinal tract, with obstruction or threatening obstruction of the bowel (ileus), or with poorly controllable diabetes mellitus.
Side Effects:
Allergic reactions may occur in rare cases.
Cautions:
The intestinal absorption of other medication taken simultaneously may be delayed. There may need to be a reduction in the insulin dosage in insulin-dependent diabetics. Insufficient intake of fluids when using this drug may lead to obstruction of the esophagus or intestine.
Administration:
The drug can be found as preparations to be taken orally.
Note: Sufficient fluids must be taken with the drug (150 ml water to 5 g drug), and the dose should be taken a half hour to one hour after taking other medication. Consult a physician if diarrhea lasts for more than 3 - 4 days.