Isabgol – A Valuable Treasure Awaiting To Be Unearthed
Isabgol is a plant that is cultivated in the dry and cool regions of India. It is a source of soluble and insoluble fibre with 30% insoluble fibre and 70% dietary fiber. Psyllium is a concentrated form of this dietary fibre and is separated from the seed through milling. The main product of isabgol production is Psyllium husk.
Where is Isabgol Cultivated?
Isabgol cultivation is suited for semi-arid areas. This nutrient is suitable for semi-arid regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan. As it is cultivated in such arid regions, its production is limited within the country. But, in the 1980s, exports of isabgol increased significantly. A large number of farmers began growing isabgol to meet demand from the world market. Processing units started springing up in the country to supply the demand for the commodity.
Isabgol cultivation is suited for semi-arid regions. Its combination of dry, sunny and wintry climates makes it ideal for the crop. The government of India has failed to take any steps to promote isabgol cultivation in India. This is a huge opportunity in the country. It is a valuable treasure awaiting to be unearthed. The demand for isabgol in the world market is increasing, but it remains a low-paying crop.
Isabgol for Different Applications
The low harvest of isabgol this year has resulted in high prices. Because of this, many farmers increase production to meet the demand. This leads to lower prices. However, isabgol cultivation is essential to meet the growing demands in the world market. It has many uses and is a valuable crop. In addition to the food industry, isabgol is also used as a thickening agent in frozen desserts, ice cream, and in the manufacturing of calico printing and setting lotions. Although isabgol has been found to be useful for those with swallowing difficulties, it should not be consumed by those with intestinal blockages and can cause anaphylaxis.
Importance of Isabgol Cultivation to the World
Isabgol has been grown for centuries in India. It is cultivated in sandy soil with a combination of dry and wintry climates. The only area where it is grown is Rajasthan and Gujarat. Its low cost makes it a good commodity for the economy. Its high demand in the world market is a huge boon for agriculture in the developing world. The price of isabgol is currently high in some countries, and is dependent on the country’s size.
Benefits of Isabgol
Isabgol is a highly nutritious food supplement. It has a natural gelatin substance that coats the stomach lining, reducing the incidence of acidity and improving digestive health. It has been shown to be effective in regulating stomach acid levels and reducing the number of episodes of acidity. In addition to its many benefits, isabgol also has low-fat content and is beneficial for cardiac health and cholesterol levels.
The Bottom Line
Isabgol is a multipurpose crop with global demand. However, the government has not taken steps to promote its cultivation in India. This means that the farmers are left to the whims of traders. Isabgol is a valuable treasure awaiting to be discovered. If this is not done, the government could halt exports of isabgol. Then, the country could become self-sufficient in this food staple.
