psyllium
Definition
Noun 1. A plant (Plantago ovata) native to Mediterranean regions: A small, herbaceous plant cultivated for its seeds. 2. The seeds of this plant, used medicinally: The seeds, and the husk derived from them, swell and become gelatinous when moist. This material is primarily used as a bulk-forming, mild laxative and dietary fiber supplement.
Usage Examples
- Noun (referring to the plant or seeds):
- Psyllium is grown commercially in several countries for its valuable seeds.
- The doctor recommended adding a spoonful of psyllium to my morning juice to improve digestion.
- This cereal is fortified with psyllium for extra fiber.
Advanced Usage
- "Psyllium husk" or "psyllium seed husk": This is the most common form used for consumption. It refers to the outer coating of the seed, which is particularly high in soluble fiber.
- For the best results, mix the psyllium husk with plenty of water.
Variants and Related Words
- Ispaghula: Another name for psyllium, particularly common in South Asia.
- Plantago ovata: The botanical (Latin) name for the psyllium plant.
- Bulk-forming laxative: A category of laxatives to which psyllium belongs, as it works by absorbing water to form a soft, bulky stool.
Synonyms
- Dietary fiber supplement
- Bulk laxative (in a medicinal context)
Notes on Meaning
The word "psyllium" almost exclusively refers to the plant and its seeds in the context of health, nutrition, and herbal medicine. Its primary modern meaning is tied to its functional use as a source of soluble fiber. It is not typically used in general conversation outside of these specific contexts.
Noun
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plantain of Mediterranean regions whose seeds swell and become gelatinous when moist and are used as a mild laxative
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