Scientific name

Plantago ovata, sin. Plantago ispaghula

Family

Plantaginaceae

Origin

Pakistan

Synonyms

psyllium

Used Parts

Drug consisting of mature seeds

Chemical constituents

• Polysaccharides (arabinoxylani);
• Iridoid glucosides;
• Protein

Ispagula in Herbalist: Property of Ispagula

The mucilages absorb water at the level of the gastrointestinal tract, swelling, so they are indicated - together with generous amounts of water - to increase intestinal peristalsis in cases of constipation, irritable bowel, hemorrhoids, constipation in pregnancy, colon diverticulosis. It is also possible to use the inspagula to reduce any diarrheal states (in which case it should be taken with little water).

Ispagula - Side effects

Following the use of Ispagula-based preparations allergic reactions may occur.

Contraindications

Avoid taking in case of intestinal occlusion and sub-occlusion or ascertained hypersensitivity to one or more components.

Pharmacological Interactions

• possible reduction of the efficacy of some drugs, if taken 30-60 minutes before or after: anticoagulants, antidiabetics, lithium, vitamins and minerals;
• insulin: an adjustment of insulin therapy is possible in relation to the reduction of carbohydrate absorption.