Psyllium

The major component of Psyllium seed (Plantago psyllium) is mucilage, which consists of both soluble and insoluble fibre. Mucilage is found in both the outer husks and the inner seed. Psyllium is an indigestible fibre which absorbs water and swells several times its original size. If taken with lots of water, it acts as a bulk laxative which absorbs water and stretches the large intestine thus decreasing the length of time that stool stays in the intestine. In cases of diarrhea, psyllium’s mucilage absorbs the excess liquid and slows down the movement and delays the emptying of the contents from the gastrointestinal tract. The mucilage in psyllium also absorbs toxins from external sources (e.g. carcinogens) and internal sources (produced by intestinal bacteria and parasites).