Fibre

Psyllium

Also called: isabgol, ispaghula, psyllium husk

Husk of plantago seeds (isabgol), a soluble fibre.

Why people take it
Constipation, IBS, cholesterol.
What the evidence says
Good evidence for constipation and lowering LDL cholesterol.
How it is usually taken
Usually 5 to 10 g (1 to 2 teaspoons) in a full glass of water once to three times a day.
Be careful
Take with plenty of water. Take medicines 2 hours apart.
Medicines it can interact with
Take other medicines 2 hours apart; may lower sugar with diabetes medicines.

Other fibre

InulinGlucomannanMethylcelluloseWheat dextrinPartially hydrolysed guar gumBeta-glucanApple cider vinegar

Common questions

What is Psyllium?

Husk of plantago seeds (isabgol), a soluble fibre.

Why do people take Psyllium?

Constipation, IBS, cholesterol.

Does Psyllium work?

Good evidence for constipation and lowering LDL cholesterol.

How much Psyllium do people take?

Usually 5 to 10 g (1 to 2 teaspoons) in a full glass of water once to three times a day.

Is Psyllium safe?

Take with plenty of water. Take medicines 2 hours apart.

Does Psyllium interact with medicines?

Take other medicines 2 hours apart; may lower sugar with diabetes medicines.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.