What is Isabgol Plantago Ovata?
Many names have been given to the common herb Plantago ovata, but what is the actual name of this plant? It is native to the Mediterranean region and has spread naturally to eastern, central, and South Asia. This herb also grows in the United States and Canada. It is commonly grown in gardens and on lawns. It is known to benefit health, as it has been shown to have a number of positive health effects.
Phytochemical Evaluation of Psyllium Husk
The phytochemical composition of psyllium husk is a unique source of antioxidants, phenolics, and scavenging agents. Phytochemical analyses of psyllium husk revealed a wide range of beneficial compounds. Although flavonoids are a main component of psyllium, other metabolites, such as lignoceric acid, can be useful nutrient supplements. The presence of a flavonoid biosynthesis pathway in psyllium provides useful insights into the metabolism of the plant.
Phytochemical evaluation of psyllium husk isabgol, an amorphous granule obtained by crushing the seed of P. ovata. The dried seeds were subjected to a high-speed rotary evaporator for 30 minutes. The extracted supernatants were collected and concentrated by centrifugation. The residue was stored at -20 degC until further analysis.
The genetic diversity of Plantago ovata was studied through biplot analysis. The three genotypes with higher mucilage content were P. lanceolata, P. major, and P. officinalis. The genetic differences between these genotypes revealed differences in mucilage content.
Using FT-IR analysis of psyllium husk is an important step in understanding the phytochemical composition of this food ingredient. The FT-IR spectrum reveals that psyllium is an important source of dietary fibre, as it increases the flow of water in the ascending colon. The polymer backbone has b-glucosidic links.
The fibre in psyllium husk has both soluble and insoluble mucilage. The mucilage, derived from grinding the outer coat of the seed, is a clear, fibrous substance that contains a lot of protein and fat. The soluble fraction of psyllium husk is composed of about 35% D-xylose and ss-D-xylose residues.
Phytochemical evaluation of psyllium husk isabgol in rats revealed that it did not modify glucose levels or the atherogenic index. However, it was highly effective in reducing LDL cholesterol and lowering the atherogenic index. The results were more positive in mild than in severely diabetic rats, although more clinical studies are needed to verify the benefits of psyllium husk.
Phytochemical Composition of Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk is a valuable dietary fibre extracted from the seeds of the Plantago ovata. It is composed of a high amount of hemicellulose, a polysaccharide with a xylan backbone and significant amounts of rhamnose, arabinose, and galacturonic acid units. Psyllium husk contains about 35% soluble and 65% insoluble polysaccharides, which are all beneficial to the human body. Psyllium seed contains mainly lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose. Consequently, it is useful for nutrient supplementation.
Several studies have been conducted on psyllium, identifying its morphological and chemical composition. FT-IR analysis revealed that the substance is rich in mucilaginous compounds. The peaks were attributed to alcohol, alkanes, and ethers. The bands at 896 cm-1 are thought to be due to bending in the polymer chains.
Benefits and Applications of Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk contains 75-78% fibre, with about 70% of this fiber being soluble, while the remaining 30% is insoluble. Despite its nutrient value, psyllium husk can also have a laxative effect. First-line treatment for constipation usually consists of a high-fiber diet, plenty of fruits and vegetables, and Psyllium husk. These supplements stimulate intestinal contraction and peristaltic movements, resulting in easy passage of stools. Ayurvedic practitioners use Isabgol with water to help relieve constipation.
Physiologically, psyllium is useful for reducing high blood pressure. High cholesterol levels are linked to high blood pressure. The buildup of plaque in the blood vessels leads to hardening and narrowing, putting additional stress on the heart. Psyllium husk pudding is often taken by folk practitioners for the treatment of white discharge and to stop the progression of yeast infections.
The Bottom Line
Although this plant has been used for many centuries, little is known about its pharmacological activities in the seed husk. The husk, which contains a rich supply of mucilage, is a key part of Plantago ovata’s pharmacological profile. Its high pharmacological activity makes it valuable for the food, beverage, and medicinal industries. However, the species is still a relatively unexplored resource for genomic research. The results of these studies are promising but further research is needed.