Zaragatona, the properties of a mild and effective laxative

Various weed plants of the genus Plantago (P. psyllium and P. afra)related to the plantain, which popular tradition has pointed out as one of the best laxative remedies that exist.

Today there is usually no lack of composition in most herbal and dietary formulations for combat constipation and overweight.

It is a modest plant, with an erect, glandular stem, covered with hair and little branching. The leaves are linear and the white and brownish flowers are grouped in rounded inflorescences.

Medicinal properties of psyllium

The psyllium blooms in April and in medicine the seeds and the peel of the fruit are harvested (what is known as “ispágula”).

It is rich in mucilages, whose biochemical composition also includes alkaloids such as plantagonin, indicamine and indicaine, glycosides, as well as minerals and unsaturated fatty acids. It stands out for its laxative, cleansing, diuretic, anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering properties.

What is the psyllium used for?

Due to its properties, psyllium is attributed the following health benefits:

for constipation

It is the richness in mucilages that explains the action of psyllium as effective and mild laxative, which does not irritate the intestinal mucosa.

The psyllium affects the body favoring the increase in intestinal mass and the hydration of food residues, making them more fluid, which allows a more immediate and painless evacuation, and manages to normalize the rhythm and frequency of bowel movements.

It is considered one of the plants best equipped to combat constipation, both occasional and chronic, difficult and painful bowel movements, but also in associated ailments such as gastritis, gastroduodenal ulcers, hemorrhoids and anal fissure.

To purify and for stomach disorders

As it is also diuretic, anti-inflammatory and cleansing, psyllium is indicated for various digestive disorders such as heartburnhe irritable bowel syndromethe ulcerative colitis and in urinary ailments such as cystitis and fluid retention.

For cholesterol and diabetes

The psyllium reduces the LDL cholesterol and blood glucose levels and facilitates the elimination of toxins through urine, which is why it is considered a valid support in diabetes, cholesterol, gout and rheumatic ailments.

However, diabetics should take it under medical control.

in topical use

In topical application is prescribed for eczema, boils, wounds and minor burns.

how to take

This plant is presented raw, in powder, capsules, tablets and in filters or in bulk to prepare infusions.

psyllium laxative infusion

The specialists recommend an excellent laxative formula, regulating the function of the intestines, also useful in cases of anal fissure, which combines 50% psyllium, plus 30% flaxseed and 10% oat bran and ispaghula.

A tablespoon of the mixture is available in a yogurt that is taken in the morning or in the afternoon. For it to work, you must drink plenty of water and marshmallow infusions.

Formula to revitalize hair

The psyllium can be used as natural glitteras it restores vitality to the hair as well as giving it a beautiful shine.

One tablespoon of psyllium seeds is needed per 250 ml of water. The mixture is boiled for 3 minutes and strained. When cooled it becomes a paste that is applied gently to the hair. This one is somewhat stiff, but bright and vigorous.

Jordi Cebrian. Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”