Plantago psyllium
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Using
Psyllium is produced commercially in many European countries, the former Soviet Union, Pakistan, and India.
Plant has gained agricultural importance because of its wide use in pharmaceutical, cosmetics and food grade industries worldwide. Psyllium also helps in eliminating accumulated toxic, chemicals and excessive waste products from the body. Also help reduce serum cholesterol levels. The dried seeds and the seed husks are demulcent, emollient and laxative (can help in the treatment of constipation, dysentery and other intestinal complaints). The macerated and decocted seeds yield rich mucilage that is used in relieving skin irritations. A type of gum which is obtained in the seeds is used for making fabric dressings.
In culinary we can use young leaves raw or cooked. Seed can be sprouted and eaten in salads.
Botanical charakteristic
The kind Plantago contains over 200 species. Plant is an annual herb that grows to height of 0,6 m to 0,3 m. Hermaphrodite flowers are numerous, small, and white (pollinated by wind). Plants flower about 60 days after planting.
Why to have the plant in your garden:
Plantain is easy to grow, and can be harvested anytime. It contains substances that can help in a number of health problems.
Links to scientific articles
http://www.psylliums.com/psyllium.htm
http://www.pfaf.org/User/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Plantago+psyllium
http://www.psylliumindia.com/psyllium_facts.htm
