Psyllium (Plantago ovata)
Photo: Stan Shebs · CC BY-SA 3.0
- Circulatory
- 8 conditions
- Licensed photo
Overview
Psyllium, also known as flea seed due to its small brown appearance, is produced by several Plantago species. It has long been used as a laxative, and MedlinePlus lists it as a bulk-forming laxative used to treat constipation. The seeds and husks have a bland taste and develop a jellylike consistency when moistened due to their high mucilage content. The plants are extensively cultivated, especially in India, and propagated from seed in spring. Seeds are harvested when ripe in late summer and early autumn.
Traditional uses & properties
MedlinePlus describes psyllium as a bulk-forming laxative used to treat constipation, and says a doctor may also prescribe it for diarrhea or high cholesterol. The husks and seeds contain mucilage that swells and turns gelatinous when soaked in water; MedlinePlus explains that psyllium absorbs liquid in the intestines and forms a bulky stool that is easy to pass.
Amounts reported by sources
These are the amounts the named source reports, such as the doses used in studies or the directions on a product label. They are not a dosage recommendation from HerbMate. Products differ in strength and safe use depends on the person, so ask a pharmacist or clinician before taking any herb.
MedlinePlus notes that psyllium is usually taken one to three times daily, following the directions on the package or prescription label. MedlinePlus says the powder and granules must be mixed with 8 ounces (240 ml) of liquid right before use, and at least 8 ounces (240 ml) of liquid must be drunk with each dose.
Safety & precautions
Do not exceed the stated dose. Always take with plenty of water. Avoid psyllium in cases of bowel obstruction or perforation, and ask a professional before giving it to children or using it in pregnancy. It can cause constipation when a person is dehydrated. Ensure adequate hydration when using.
Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.
Drug interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
The three Plantago species that produce psyllium grow throughout southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia, especially in India, where they are extensively cultivated. They require plenty of sun.
Sources
The interaction notes and the statements on this page that name a source were written by HerbMate from these references, which were last checked in October 2026. They are summaries, not medical advice; ask a pharmacist about your own medicines.
Traditionally used for
- Cholesterol regulation6 herbs · 2 free
- Acidity5 herbs · 2 free
- Colitis8 herbs · 2 free
- Constipation13 herbs · 2 free
- Hemorrhoids5 herbs · 2 free
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome11 herbs · 2 free
- Ulcers15 herbs · 2 free
- Diabetes11 herbs · 2 free
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Frequently asked questions
What is Psyllium (Plantago ovata) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Psyllium (Plantago ovata) as follows: MedlinePlus describes psyllium as a bulk-forming laxative used to treat constipation, and says a doctor may also prescribe it for diarrhea or high cholesterol. The husks and seeds contain mucilage that swells and turns gelatinous when soaked in water; MedlinePlus explains that psyllium absorbs liquid in the intestines and forms a bulky stool that is easy to pass.
What amounts do sources report for Psyllium (Plantago ovata)?
These are the amounts the named source reports, such as the doses used in studies or the directions on a product label. They are not a dosage recommendation from HerbMate. Products differ in strength and safe use depends on the person, so ask a pharmacist or clinician before taking any herb. MedlinePlus notes that psyllium is usually taken one to three times daily, following the directions on the package or prescription label. MedlinePlus says the powder and granules must be mixed with 8 ounces (240 ml) of liquid right before use, and at least 8 ounces (240 ml) of liquid must be drunk with each dose.
What safety cautions apply to Psyllium (Plantago ovata)?
Do not exceed the stated dose. Always take with plenty of water. Avoid psyllium in cases of bowel obstruction or perforation, and ask a professional before giving it to children or using it in pregnancy. It can cause constipation when a person is dehydrated. Ensure adequate hydration when using.
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