Isabgol is the scientific name given to a medicinal herb which is used in the treatment of constipation and other digestive diseases like diarrhea, nausea, flatulence, irritable bowel syndrome, peptic ulcer, gastritis, indigestion, and other gastrointestinal problems. It has been used since ancient times as a medicinal remedy for various health disorders and has been a popular herbal remedy for colon cleansing too. A recent study has revealed that Isabgol has amazing benefits for human health and is a powerful laxative.
It has been scientifically proven as a potent antioxidant that effectively deals with free radicals present in the human body. It neutralizes free radical molecules, thereby protecting the body from the damages caused by these molecules.
Benefits of Isabgol
Isabgol is commonly used as a digestive tonic to treat diarrhea caused due to insufficient amount of liquids in the body because it is more effective than the usual laxatives available in the market It restores the levels of liquids in the body and thus makes the body more humid. It is also known as an effective agent for the relief of indigestion. Studies have also revealed that Isabgol is a valuable agent for the treatment of acid dyspepsia and gallstone pancreatitis.
Chemical Composition of Isabgol
The chemical composition of Isabgol is very unique and complex; hence, it is not possible to manufacture similar drug in the laboratory. Only the natural process helps the Isabgol break down the chemical bonds in the stomach so that it can easily enter into the bloodstream without any obstruction. The compound is very insoluble in fat, cholesterol and other compounds present in the digestive tract but soluble in water and oil. To dissolve the compound in water, Isabgol is combined with a base like alcohol, methanol, lye and also purified or distilled water.
How Isabgol Works On, And Benefits Human Body?
The Isabgol digests cholesterol, fats, salts and other wastes products in the human body very quickly and thus enters the blood stream without any hindrance. Once absorbed in the blood stream, the Isabgol gets converted into soluble fibres which are then transported throughout the body and attach to the intestinal wall where it helps in digestion of the food. These soluble fibres break down the food that enters the stomach and the intestines to produce the necessary amount of gas. These gaseous wastes are eliminated from the body through the faecal wastes and the remaining gas is absorbed by the lungs.
Isabgol has been proved useful for curing severe dyspepsia symptoms. Two tasters of Isabgol per day have been found to be as effective as twenty tasters a day for reducing cholesterol levels. Isabgol not only helps prevent hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol), but it also prevents constipation and cramps, nausea and vomiting, excessive thirst and hot flashes. Isabgol is a safe and gentle drug. It has no reported side effects. Regular intake of Isabgol reduces cholesterol levels up to significant level.