Isabgol (Plantago ovata)

Isabgol (Plantago ovata Forssk.) is a small herbaceous plant native to India and the Mediterranean region. The seed husk, commonly known as psyllium husk, is widely used for its high mucilage content, primarily as a natural laxative and dietary fiber supplement. It is renowned for its gentle yet effective action in managing constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and cholesterol levels.

Isabgol Scientific Name

Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Angiosperms
Class: Eudicots
Order: Lamiales
Family: Plantaginaceae
Genus: Plantago
Species: Plantago ovata Forssk

Isabgol Common Name

English: Psyllium Husk, Blond Psyllium
Sanskrit: Ashwakarna, Shankhapushpi
Hindi: Isabgol
Gujarati: Isabgol
Marathi: Isabgol
Tamil: Isappukol
Telugu: Isapagola

Isabgol Uses

Digestive Health - Acts as a bulk-forming laxative by absorbing water and forming a gel-like mass that eases bowel movement.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Helps in managing IBS symptoms, particularly alternating constipation and diarrhea, by regulating bowel movements.

Cholesterol and Heart Health - Aids in reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) by binding bile acids and lowering their reabsorption.

Diabetes Support - Delays glucose absorption, helping in better glycemic control for Type 2 diabetes patients.

Weight Management - Increases satiety and reduces hunger cravings by forming a viscous gel, which slows digestion.

Phytochemical Constituents

Isabgol contains high amounts of soluble and insoluble fiber, mucilage, and several active phytochemicals:

Mucilage (20–30%) – Primary active agent; forms a gelatinous mass on hydration
Aucubin – Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial
Plantamajoside – Antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties
Iridoid glycosides – Contribute to mild laxative effect
Tannins, Fixed Oils, Proteins, Polysaccharides

References

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API) – Govt. of India, Part I, Vol. II, Ministry of AYUSH.

Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia (2002), Indian Drug Manufacturers’ Association (IDMA) & RRL, CSIR.

Vohora, S.B., & Khan, M.S.Y. (1978). "Analgesic and anti-inflammatory studies on Plantago ovata." Planta Medica, 34, 225–228.

Marlett, J.A., & Fischer, M.H. (2003). "The active fraction of psyllium husk." Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 62(1), 207–209.

Anderson, J.W. et al. (2000). "Long-term cholesterol-lowering effects of psyllium as an adjunct to diet therapy in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia." The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 71(6), 1433–1438.

The European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition – Council of Europe.

Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants, CSIR, New Delhi.

British Herbal Pharmacopoeia (1996). Psyllium Monograph, British Herbal Medicine Association.