Overview
Psyllium is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for constipation. Aśva-karn. a means ‘horse’s ear’ and relates to the shape of the small pink seed resembling the equine ear. Psyllium is a very useful demulcent bulk laxative for treating constipation from dryness.
How Psyllium Helps with Constipation
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Psyllium has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing constipation:
- Potency (Virya): Cool
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Sweet
- Taste (Rasa): Sweet
- Qualities (Guna): Unctuous, heavy, slimey
Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Sweet
- Quality (Guna)
- Unctuous, heavy, slimey
- Potency (Virya)
- Cool
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Sweet
- Dosha Effect
- Dos.aHIIHFW93ï.
- Key Constituents
- Polysaccharides Mucilage Monoterpene alkaloids Indicaine, plantagonine Iridoids Aucubin Triterpenes Sterols Sugars (Williamson 2002)
- Dhatu
- Plasma, muscle
- Srotas
- Digestive, excretory, respiratory
Safety & Precautions
Contraindications: Low digestive fire. Prolonged; use reduces fertility
Safety: It may slow the absorption of other medication. It is best taken 1 or 2 hours after prescribed allopathic or other herbal medication. It is also wise to ensure cardiac glycoside, carbamazepine and lithium salts are taken at as great an interval as possible from psyllium to ensure clinical doses are received. It may be necessary to reduce diabetic medication (WHO 1999, Harkness & Bratman 2003).
Other Herbs for Constipation
See all herbs for constipation on the Constipation page.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.