Black Psyllium Seed

Plantago afra; Plantago psyllium

Description:
The plant is an erect annual which reaches a height of 60 centimeters. It is indigenous to western Asia and the Mediterranean region. The seeds are dark brown, glossy and narrowly oblong. The ripe seeds are the medicinal part.

Composition:
Black psyllium seed, which consists of the dried, ripe seed of Plantago psyllium and of P. indica, contains mucilages.

Actions:
Regulation of intestinal peristalsis.
In constipation it increases the volume of stool which stimulates intestinal peristalsis and results in a decrease in the time needed to pass through the bowels. In diarrhea, it binds water and thus helps normalize passage time through bowel.

Uses:
Chronic constipation. Irritable bowel.

Contraindications:
Patients with stenosis of the esophagus or the gastrointestinal tract should not use this drug.

Side Effects:
Allergic reactions may occur rarely.