There is some evidence to suggest that Psyllium supplementation can help reduce high blood pressure by
enhancing the fecal excretion of sodium absorbed in the intestinal tract. Although this evidence comes mostly from
animal studies, a trial involving sixty-eight hypercholesterolemic patients demonstrated a small reduction in blood
pressure in patients receiving 8 gm of Psyllium supplementation each day for four weeks. Their cholesterol levels
were also reduced, providing a desirable synergistic effect in reducing cardiovascular disease risk. 4,22
Dosage and Standardized Grade
1. Constipation (from non organic disease), Diarrhea, IBS and Non-insulin Dependent Diabetes and Insulin-
Dependent Diabetes: 5 gm (one teaspoon), three times per day, or 10 to 30 gm of whole seeds per day, taken in
three evenly divided doses. This should be stirred into a large glass of water or fruit juice and ingested as a
beverage (before it thickens in the glass). 1,5,6,20
2. Cholesterol-lowering: 5 gm (one teaspoon), two or three times per day. Follow instructions above. 1,2,11,25,26,27
3. Ulcerative Colitis: 5 gm (one teaspoon), twice per day; or 10 gm whole seed, twice per day. Follow instructions
above. 19
Adverse Side Effects, Toxicity and Contraindications
Psyllium supplementation has been shown to be safe when taken at recommended doses. 1 Some patients with
IBS may see a worsening of their condition upon supplementation with Psyllium as has been reported in some
cases. 1,21 Patients with bowel obstruction and diabetics with extreme blood sugar sensitivities should not use
Psyllium. 21 Allergic skin reactions from Psyllium are primarily limited to people working in factories
manufacturing Psyllium products. 1
Drug-Nutrient Interactions
Psyllium supplementation may potentiate the action of the following medications and thereby lower the required
dosages of these medications:
1. Hypoglycemic Medications (e.g., glyburide, glipizide, metformin, rosiglitazone, glimepiride, tolbutamide, acarbose,
chlorpropamide etc.) 18