It is also known as Psyllium Husk a type of rhizome-less bushy plant, which is about a yard high. Its leaves are like paddy leaves and its branches are fine. Wheat grows like ears at the end of the branch. Seeds remain in these hairs. There is a fine and white membrane on its seeds. When this membrane is removed, it becomes the husk of Isabgol. This is the center of the luab found in it.
There is another large species of Isabgol, which is called Plantago Amplexiculis in Latin. It grows mostly in the plains of Punjab, Manhwa Bar and Sindh and it produces brown colored Isabgol.
Isabgol, known scientifically as Plantago Ovata or P. Isphagula, is a widely recognized medicinal plant with numerous traditional uses. In Sanskrit, it is referred to as Dyola, Greasy Seed, or Greasy Cumin, reflecting its soothing properties. In Hindi, it is commonly known as Isabgol, while in Gujarati, it is called Uthmunjiru. The Bengali name for Isabgol is Istgul, and in Telugu, it is referred to as Hasvagul. In Persian, the plant is known as Isvagalm, and in Arabic, it is called Vajrekutuna. These diverse names across various languages highlight the plant’s widespread usage and its significance in traditional medicine systems in different cultures.
Isabgol has a fascinating history, particularly in the context of its use in Unani (Greek) medicine and the Punani belief system. Arab and Persian scholars have frequently mentioned Isabgol in their writings, emphasizing its medicinal properties. Notably, it was first described by the Shia scholar Alevi around the 10th century, and later by the renowned physician Ibnsina (Avicenna). Following these early descriptions, many Muslim writers continued to extol the virtues of Isabgol in their medical texts, indicating its significant role in traditional medicine.
The historical accounts suggest that the widespread use of Isabgol in India coincided with the arrival of Muslims, who introduced and popularized it as a treatment for various ailments. Isabgol has been particularly valued for its effectiveness in treating dysentery and intestinal ulcers. It has long been a popular home remedy for different forms of dysentery and diarrhea, especially in cases where blood and mucus are present in the stool. This enduring use underscores Isabgol’s importance in traditional medicine and its continued relevance in treating digestive disorders.
Isabgol for Asthma Cure : Insights from Mujarrawat Akbari on Treating Chronic Asthma Naturally
Mujarrawat Akbari is a well-known text in traditional medicine, particularly in Unani medicine, and it contains numerous remedies and treatments based on centuries-old knowledge. The specific recommendation to consume a handful of Isabgol (Psyllium husk) every morning for the treatment of shortness of breath and asthma suggests that it may have some benefits in managing respiratory conditions.
Isabgol is primarily known for its laxative properties due to its high fiber content, which can help in regulating bowel movements. However, it also has some demulcent properties, meaning it can soothe irritated tissues, which might explain its suggested use in respiratory conditions like asthma.
The claim that continuous use of Isabgol for 6 months to 2 years can alleviate chronic asthma (even of 22-30 years duration) may stem from its potential to reduce inflammation or soothe the respiratory tract. However, it’s important to approach such claims with caution and consider them in the context of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include modern medical interventions.
If you’re considering this approach for managing asthma or any respiratory condition, it’s highly advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or an experienced practitioner in traditional medicine to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your specific health needs.
Isabgol Seeds: A Natural Cure for Digestive Disorders, Fever, and Kidney Health
Isabgol seeds are cooling and soothing. It is considered useful to use them in diarrhea, hematemesis, dysentery and other disorders of the digestive system and also in case of fever. It also has diuretic properties. It is used in the case of bladder, urinary tract and other kidney related problems by applying it in quantity from six to one tola along with sugar. Its ground seeds are mixed with Indrayan seeds and given in case of dysentery. Its seeds are crushed and poultice is made from them. This poultice is beneficial in glandular pains and joint arthritis. Soft water prepared from their essence is soothing to the head. The decoction of its seeds is given in the case of cold and cough.
Colonel Chopra‘s Chemical Analysis of Isabgol: Understanding Its Unique Properties and Health Benefits
Colonel Chopra provided insights into the composition of Isabgol seeds. He noted that these seeds contain a type of fat-enhancing oil and albuminous substances, which contribute to their unique properties. According to Colonel Chopra, the seeds have such a high concentration of these elements that even when one part of the seed is mixed with twenty parts of water, a tasteless extract is rapidly formed. This extract remains stable and unaltered by various substances, including hot water, alcohol, iodine, borax, and perchlorate of iron. Isabgol’s capacity to absorb and retain water is a notable characteristic, though it can only absorb a limited amount of water.
In 1930, Colonel Chopra further elaborated on his findings regarding Isabgol. He confirmed that the seeds contain some amount of glucoside, though he considered this component insignificant from an agricultural perspective. He identified the presence of tensin in significant quantities but observed that it did not exhibit any notable effects on Proteus bacteria or other germs. However, Chopra emphasized the importance of the mucilage (luab) found in Isabgol seeds, suggesting that this component is likely responsible for the seeds’ therapeutic superiority. Due to its potential importance, the luab found in Isabgol seeds has been the subject of special research and attention.
Colonel Chopra conducted research on this topic for 14 years, and the findings are as follows:
Chronic Bacillary Dysentery: This condition often occurs in this disease. According to Acton and Mawls, this type of dysentery is particularly lethal in India, caused by toxins from two or three types of infectious bacteria. This condition leads to the development of intestinal ulcers, weakening the digestive system and producing toxins. The diarrhea associated with this can persist for many years, sometimes alternating with constipation.
Chronic Amoebic Dysentery: Patients with this disease experience irregular bowel movements and constipation. The severity of diarrhea varies in these cases. There are two types of patients: those who are thin and suffer from constant constipation.
Chronic Constipation: This may also include cases where constipation is due to other causes, such as intoxication.
Isabgol seeds are highly effective in treating the aforementioned conditions. Although these seeds do not contain any elements that directly neutralize bacterial toxins, they coat the inflamed parts of the wounds and intestines with their mucilage. This protective layer prevents food from irritating the wounds, allowing the inflammation to subside quickly. Additionally, Isabgol absorbs and expels toxins from the body, usually within 12 hours, providing both immediate relief and significant improvement in the patient’s condition.
While Imetin, Indrayan, or Indraj have shown success in treating chronic amoebic dysentery, Isabgol, combined with Indrajau and Indrayan extract, has proven particularly effective. If the patient is given 7 grams of the extract three to four times daily, along with two to three tablespoons of Isabgol seeds twice a day, significant improvement is seen within six weeks. Stool examinations confirm that the disease-causing bacteria are completely eradicated.
In cases of chronic amoebic dysentery where constipation is the main symptom, these seeds swell in the intestines, easing the passage of stool without causing discomfort. For severe constipation, the use of a mild laxative alongside Isabgol enhances its effectiveness.
- Hill Diarrhoea: This disease commonly affects people who visit hill stations, particularly Europeans. Patients often experience severe diarrhea in the morning, along with some gas. In the early stages, Isabgol seeds are highly beneficial, reducing the flow of mucus and firming up the stool. It is also effective in treating chronic diarrhea in children, where its mucilage cleanses the intestines and stomach, flushing out germs.
Dosage and Method of Taking Isabgol: The seeds should be cleaned first to remove dust, then washed in one or two cups of water. The typical dosage is around 7 grams, although up to 5 tolas can be taken without harm, as the seeds contain no toxic substances and are expelled from the intestines within 12 hours. In cases of severe constipation, a higher dosage is recommended for two reasons: it induces bowel movements when present in large quantities in the stomach and swells in the intestines, facilitating easier passage of stool. Four methods are suggested for using these seeds.
Colonel Chopra says that in simple cases of chronic dysentery and in cases of diarrhea and hematemesis, the first method is better. Because these seeds, when mixed with the substances present in the intestines, swell considerably and completely cover the mucous membranes. If this mucus gets collected then it gets tied into knots and comes out of the digestive system intact. It has become clear from experience that when this lure remains with the seeds, the digestive system can have very little effect on it. If only its husk or decoction is used after removing its seeds, then the digestive system will be affected.
It is more convenient to use seeds. Taking its husk is more beneficial in dysentery caused by germs called Protozoal and Bacillary. Many substances made from paraffin are given to improve the elasticity of the intestines.
Mixes with the elements without forming, keeps the passage of the digestive system soft and quickly expels the wastes accumulated inside the intestines. Paraffin is a type of mineral extract, hence it cannot be digested and passes out with diarrhea. After doing a comparative study of Paraffin with Isabgol seeds, we (Colonel Chopra) have come to the conclusion that the same work is done by Paraffin in removing constipation and making the intestines smooth, the same work is done by Isabgol seeds. But these The special advantage of the seeds is that they do not have any kind of demerit, even the best texture of Paraffin does not cause irritation in the stomach and anal tract of the people taking this substance.
Due to its continuous use, it gets deposited in the intestinal tract and does not absorb nutrients. There is no such defect in Isabgol. The same effect as Liquid Paraffin (paraffin oil) can be obtained by taking two-three spoons of Isabgol seeds before sleeping at night and it does not have any side effect.
This means that Boshadhi is very useful and harmless in treating diarrhoea, dysentery and general dysentery. It is cooling and diuretic.
Dr. KL De says that Isabgol seeds are a very useful home medicine for chronic diarrhea and chronic common dysentery in India. We have been giving it for the last 25 years in acute chronic and all other types of dysentery and it has proved beneficial. We also use it in the disease of high blood pressure (excessive blood pressure). In this disease which is also accompanied by intestinal disorders and intoxication caused by other activities, it is very useful. From our experience, we have seen that its continuous use helps in reducing the disease. Unable to move forward.
Use- Taking Isabgol, cool chilli and Kalmigora’s funki is beneficial in dysuria. Bloody Piles – Soaking its seeds in cold water and then filtering its tips and giving it a drink helps in getting rid of bloody piles.
It is beneficial in piles. Burning sensation during urination- Drinking its juice with Puri relieves burning sensation during urination. Applying its poultice on arthritis and joint pain is beneficial.
Nafseer: Grinding it in vinegar and applying a thin paste on the temples stops the deadly disease.
Breathing or Asthma – By taking Isabgol sticks twice a day continuously for a year or six months, it will be cured.
All types of respiratory diseases are cured.
Pilonmania is cured by taking out the powder of one tola(11,600 milligrams (mg) Isabgol and mixing it with sugar and giving it to drink.
Diarrhea: We have written above the methods of using Isabgol in all types of diarrhea. It is said that if Isabgol is cultivated it becomes poisonous. Therefore, it should not be ground and used for food purposes. Rather, it can be used by soaking, filtering or removing the husk.
This medicine is also very beneficial in spermatorrhea in patients of hot nature.
Spermatorrhea is a medical condition characterized by the involuntary discharge of semen without sexual activity, often occurring during urination or bowel movements. It is commonly associated with weakness or dysfunction of the reproductive system and can be caused by various factors, including stress, hormonal imbalances, or excessive sexual activity. In traditional medicine, conditions like spermatorrhea are often treated with natural remedies aimed at strengthening the reproductive system and balancing the body’s energies
It is very useful in the flow of digestive system and also in bile-related disorders. Applying its poultice is very beneficial in arthritis, rheumatism and other rheumatic diseases.
