Psyllium Seeds come from an annual plant cultivated in Iran, India and Pakistan.
They have no taste or odour.
Both the seeds and the seed husks are used.
The seed has a coating that is about 30% mucilage, which makes it effective as a laxative. It is used in products such as Metamucil.
In India, the seeds are combined with fruit, either juiced or stewed, or added to oil and vinegar.
Substitutes
A bran such as oat.
Nutrition
The husks are used to treat constipation.
History Notes
Native to Iran and India.
Language Notes
“Psyllium” comes from a Greek word for “flea”, in reference to the size and shape of the seed.