Part of
Psyllium
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Typical dose
Typically 5-10 grams of psyllium husk powder dai...
About this supplement
Psyllium husk capsules contain the outer seed coat of Plantago ovata, a soluble fiber supplement. The husk is rich in hemicellulose, forming a viscous gel when mixed with water. This gel-forming property is responsible for its physiological effects, including increased stool bulk, slowed gastric emptying, and binding of bile acids. Capsules provide a convenient, pre-measured dosage form that requires water consumption to activate the fiber's gel-forming properties. The fiber is largely fermented by colonic bacteria, producing short-chain fatty acids.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- Typically 5-10 grams of psyllium husk powder daily, divided into 2-3 doses. Capsules commonly contain 500-625 mg each, requiring multiple capsules per dose.
- Suggested range
- 5-30 g daily
Potential benefits
Benefits linked to this supplement form:
Things to watch for
Possible side effects linked to this form:
Health goals
Needs and goals this form may help with:
Other forms of Psyllium
Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:
Technical details â–¼
Chemical ID (CAS)
8063-16-9
Physical properties
Off-white to light brown powder (in capsule). Highly hydrophilic, forms viscous gel in water. Odorless with mild taste. Insoluble in organic solvents.
How it’s made
Psyllium seeds are harvested from Plantago ovata plants, primarily cultivated in India. The husk is mechanically separated from the seed through milling and sieving. The purified husk is then milled to specific particle sizes, tested for purity and microbial content, and encapsulated in gelatin or vegetarian capsules.