British remedy: How psyllium husk revitalises digestive health

British pantries are not lacking in superfoods. Although not highly appreciated today, some have been known for generations, and knowledge of their effects is nothing extraordinary for our grandmothers and mothers. Although flaxseed enjoys the most incredible popularity, there are even better seeds that will take care of our intestines.

Our bodies don't have it easy. Chronic stress, fatigue, hectic life, and meals that aren't always nutritious cause our intestines to rebel. Bloating, an unpleasant feeling of heaviness, and "rumbling" in the stomach are not pleasant. Before you stock up on store-bought remedies, reach for natural ways to deal with more or less embarrassing ailments.

One of the best ways to support the digestive system is to include psyllium husk in your diet. Plantago psyllium is a plant whose seeds are a valuable source of dietary fibre. It originates from the Mediterranean, Western Asia, and North Africa. Although it does not occur naturally here, it is cultivated for its beneficial properties. Its seeds, rich in proteins, fats, fibre, and mucilaginous substances, positively affect the digestive system and improve gut health.

In combination with Plantago ovata, it forms a dietary supplement known as vital fibre.

Psyllium husk helps regulate digestion, improves intestinal peristalsis, cleanses the intestines, and helps regulate bowel movements. The swelling psyllium seeds absorb sugars and cholesterol, helping to regulate them.

Psyllium husk will also help in the fight for a slim figure and a flat stomach. The fibre it contains gives a feeling of fullness, helping to control excessive appetite and reduce hunger. Dietary fibre binds cholesterol in the intestines, making it harder to absorb. Psyllium husk is also appreciated by people struggling with diabetes or insulin resistance - it helps slow down glucose absorption, thus preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.

Psyllium husk most often comes as a powder that should be mixed with a lukewarm liquid. It can be added to yoghurt, kefir, buttermilk, porridge, or smoothies. Two teaspoons of vital fibre are recommended twice a day. It is important to remember to drink a large amount of water while using psyllium husk to facilitate its swelling in the digestive tract.

Psyllium husk paste can also be used externally. Pour hot water over 2-3 teaspoons of psyllium husk seeds and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Once it cools down, it can be applied to the skin or hair. This paste made from psyllium husk seeds can treat skin affected by eczema, psoriasis, acne, sunburns, or insect bites. It has soothing effects, which help reduce itching, redness, and inflammation.

To prepare vital fibre, pour two teaspoons of powder into 200 millilitres of cool, boiled water and wait about 20 minutes. When it reaches a porridge-like consistency, it is ready to eat.