An Introduction
Psyllium Husk is derived from the seed of the plant Plantago ovata. It is cultivated commercially in India and is locally known as Isabgol.
The Psyllium crop is sown between October-December and harvested after approximately 3-4 months. The Psyllium plant grows to a height of 30–46 cm. A large number of flowering shoots arise from the base of the plant in about 60 days after sowing. The seeds are enclosed in pods that open at maturity. The white fibrous material derived from the outer coating of mucilage around the Psyllium Seed, is known as Psyllium Husk.
Physical and Chemical Characteristics
Psyllium Husk is an off-white to white, odourless, mucilaginous, bland tasting fiber that swells rapidly in cold water to form a mucilage. Depending on the purity, Psyllium Husk contains between 70% to 90% dietary fiber. It is chemically inert and gluten-free.
Applications
Health care
The primary use of Psyllium Husk is in the healthcare industry. It works mechanically in the alimentary canal and is widely prescribed as a natural laxative to relieve constipation. It is used as an aid to relieve Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Inflammatory Bowel Disease. It is recommended as a regular dietary supplement to improve and maintain regular GI transit. It is used as a bulk-forming agent to help relieve moderate diarrhea. It has been proven to lower cholesterol and is used to control certain types of diabetes. It is also used an aid in decreasing risk of coronary heart disease.
Food & Feed Industry
In the food industry, Psyllium Husk is used in gluten-free baking and to improve the fibre content of food. It also finds use in horse feed, due to its ability to capture and move sand through a horse’s digestive system.
Industrial
The by-product that is obtained when processing Psyllium Seed is used as a 100% natural biodegradable tackifier, and water-retention agent, for landscaping, hydroseeding and erosion control applications.
Regulatory Information
| CAS No. | 8063-16-9 |
| HS Code | 12119032 |
Psyllium Husk Grades offered by Premcem
Psyllium Husk is offered in 70%, 85%, 95%, 98% & 99% purities. Husk of different purities can also be offered in powder form as per the particle size requirements of the buyer. We also offer gamma-treated or steam-treated Psyllium Husk.
