A sedentary lifestyle and lack of fiber in the diet lead to constipation. The problem of constipation is quite common, so many people are in search of a laxative that is effective, harmless, mild and non-addictive.
Plantain is just such a remedy; for constipation, the seeds of the plant are used, which have a complex effect on the gastrointestinal tract, normalizing intestinal function.
Not many people know that psyllium seeds are quite effective for constipation.
Description of plants
Many people have known about the healing properties of plantain since childhood, when they applied its wide leaves to abrasions and scratches. This plant is familiar to everyone - the great plantain; it is one of the most valuable medicinal herbs. However, it is not used in the treatment of constipation.
To combat constipation, seeds of other types of plantain are used - sandy (flea) and ovoid (isphagula).
Sand plantain is a herbaceous annual with a branched stem up to 0.4 m high and thin linear leaves similar to pine needles. White inconspicuous inflorescences resemble small cones in shape, growing several at the ends of the shoots. This species grows on sandy and rocky soils in temperate climate zones of Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Sandy plantain
Ovate plantain is a compact herbaceous annual with a rosette of narrow elongated leaves and long peduncles bearing one ovoid inflorescence. The seeds of this species have an unusual color - they are pale pink with a cherry stripe.
This species is not found on the territory of the Russian Federation; it grows in the Mediterranean countries, the Canary Islands, South Asia, Transcaucasia, and some states of the USA.
Egg-shaped plantain
Plantain seeds - medicinal properties and contraindications
The composition of the biological substances of plantain fruits has its own uniqueness. It is no coincidence that medical preparations are prepared from this plant, which are prophylactic for heart, stomach and lung diseases, help strengthen the immune system, and help cure male and female ailments.
Chemical composition
All above-ground parts of this plant, including seed pods, contain flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties, that is, they have an anti-inflammatory effect and slow down the process of premature aging.
They contain phenolcarboxylic and organic acids that have antibacterial properties and antiviral activity (for example, chlorogenic acid).
The seeds are distinguished by the presence of mucous substances, quite a lot in their husks, sometimes their share is up to 16%. Mucous substances belong to the category of polysaccharides. But the mucus itself consists of starch and mananna. Mananna polysaccharide contains up to 16%, and together with starch they can occupy 44% of the volume. These substances have enveloping and anti-inflammatory properties.
The seeds contain fatty oils and iridoids. Fatty oils are no less useful. They consist of fatty acids, which have not only a wound-healing and softening, but also a regenerating effect.
There are also vitamins, minerals and organic compounds, fiber and dietary fiber. There are studies that show that the gluten contained in these seeds is similar to that found in wheat flour.
But it is gluten-free, which makes it suitable for baking for people with celiac disease. This disease is characterized by protein malabsorption, which occurs due to intolerance to gluten (cereal protein).
The presence of oleanolic acid has a beneficial effect on the heart and vascular system, counteracting the formation of spasms. In addition, it relieves inflammatory processes.
The fruits are distinguished by the rare glycoside aucubin, which is characterized by high biological activity with a predominant effect of antioxidant, antitumor, bactericidal, hypoclemic, and antiviral.
Medicinal properties of seeds
Plantain seeds have expectorant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and wound-healing properties. They have a mild diuretic effect. Traditional medicine is used to cure various diseases.
Due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect, they are used in the treatment of prostatitis. Based on them, various remedies for inflammatory skin diseases are prepared, and they are used to treat wounds and abscesses. Using poultices, relieve inflammation on the mucous membranes and skin.
The wound-healing properties of the fruit promote rapid tissue regeneration. Therefore, they will be useful in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, stomach ulcers, and other gastrointestinal pathologies. They are used to heal cracked nipples while feeding children with breast milk.
Traditional medicine uses its diuretic property to relieve edema, with increased intoxication and high blood pressure. They help reduce bad cholesterol levels and can normalize the functioning of the heart and blood vessels.
Traditional medicine recommends the fruit for the treatment of diabetes, female and male infertility.
The expectorant effect of decoctions and tea allows you to cope with dry and wet coughs that occur with colds. The drugs are also effective for smoker’s cough.
Adherents of herbal medicine suggest using the fruits to cleanse the intestines. This remedy is considered more effective than bran, since it is better accepted by the body.
The seeds act as a sorbent and, like a sponge, absorb all toxins and harmful substances, which allows you to cleanse the intestines and remove toxins from the body.
Proponents of the theory of slagging of the body argue that cleansing the intestines with seeds is beneficial even for a healthy body and can be an effective prevention of cancer, including colon cancer. Of course, there will be no harm from such a procedure, but it should be remembered that such an effect has not been proven by science.
The antimicrobial effect allows you to fight pathogenic microflora of the gastrointestinal tract, leveling out the increased level of Helicobacter bacteria, and helps reduce viruses and microbes in the body.
Contraindications and possible harm
It should be remembered that seeds also have contraindications. The main one is considered to be allergies, so people with high sensitivity or intolerance to the biological substances that make up the plant must be extremely careful.
It is not recommended to take this drug for people with a predisposition to arterial hypertension. Preparations from plantain fruits are not indicated if increased stomach acidity is established, and if there is an ulcer, consultation with a doctor is required.
Seed composition
The list of substances found in the seeds of sandy and ovoid plantain seems to have been specially selected by nature to help people solve the problem of constipation. They include:
- mucus, its content reaches 40%, due to which the product has an enveloping effect;
- polyunsaturated fatty acids (up to 20%), which help the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and stimulate the regeneration of intestinal cells;
- oleanolic acid, which has an anti-inflammatory effect;
- aucubin, which stimulates peristalsis and has an antispasmodic effect;
- vitamins K, C, carotene;
- fiber that swells many times when it absorbs water.
They also contain steroidal saponins and some other substances in small quantities.
Plantain seeds can be taken not only in the form of a decoction, but also in pureed form.
It has been established that the gluten of psyllium seeds does not contain gluten, so they can be safely used by people intolerant to this substance.
Treatment of constipation with psyllium husk
The husk of plantain seeds (psyllium), which contains a large amount of fiber, is successfully used to solve the problem of difficulty with bowel movements. Purchase this raw material at the pharmacy.
When it enters the intestine, the husk has a beneficial effect on its functions, intensifying peristalsis. This effect makes it easier to remove compacted slag deposits, which improves overall health.
For mild constipation that is not chronic, stir 1 tbsp. l. psyllium in a glass of milk. You can use juice or water. Drink this portion before breakfast, lunch, dinner, observing a time interval of 25-30 minutes.
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In order to get rid of persistent constipation, the amount of plantain husk per glass of drink is doubled.
It is imperative that when carrying out therapeutic measures at home with this type of medicinal raw material, the drinking regime is observed. Drink about two liters of filtered water per day.
How do psyllium seeds work for constipation?
This plant material is highly hygroscopic. When taking it, you need to drink a sufficient amount of liquid, absorbing which, the seeds increase many times in volume and secrete a lot of mucus.
Due to the swelling of fiber, the contents of the intestine become more voluminous, and mucus serves as a lubricant, helping feces move more easily through the colon. In addition, the substances included in the composition activate intestinal motility.
Thanks to these effects, psyllium seed produces a mild laxative effect for constipation of both atonic and spastic nature.
Taking psyllium seeds speeds up the digestion of food in the intestines
This remedy also helps in the treatment of chronic colitis, soothing the irritated inner surface of the intestines. Due to its ability to normalize intestinal function, plantain seed is also used for diarrhea.
Plantain seeds for constipation - properties, principle of action, scheme of application
One of the main causes of constipation is poor diet. Highly processed products are primarily to blame. These include sweets or fast food products that thousands of people enjoy eating every day.
Among other attractions, there are also various types of powdered dishes and ready-made, hermetically sealed dishes heated in the microwave. The harmful substances they contain disrupt the functioning of the digestive system, as a result of which they not only cause constipation, but are also deposited in adipose tissue.
Fiber in the diet
The most effective weapon for treating and preventing constipation is fiber. After entering the intestines, fiber helps clear its channels of contents, positively affecting peristalsis.
Fiber helps improve intestinal motility.
You should consume about 20-40 grams of fiber per day. Excellent sources include whole grain bread, bran, cereal, flaxseed, and dried fruits such as plums, which have been one of the best natural foods for constipation for many years.
Medicinal properties
Plantain extract is included in many medications for constipation due to its unique properties. A laxative based on plantain quickly restores normal stool.
In addition, other beneficial properties of the husk can be highlighted:
- The large amount of coarse fiber contained in the seeds quickly cleanses the digestive system of toxins.
- Fiber has a gentle effect on the intestinal walls, forcing them to actively digest food.
- Plantain speeds up the process of absorption of nutrients from food.
- Plantain extract removes toxic substances from the body.
- Seed husk accelerates the proliferation of beneficial bacteria in the body, which are responsible for a stable digestive process.
Abundance of fluid
While you're consuming plenty of fiber, you shouldn't forget to stay properly hydrated. It is recommended to drink 3 liters of liquid during the day. For constipation, you should more often use natural yoghurts and kefir.
Water improves the movement of feces through the intestines.
Use for constipation
The use of plantain for constipation is usually in the form of decoctions, tinctures or powder. It is important to note that the decoction should not sit for a long time after preparation.
Therefore, it is best to consume it immediately. In addition, plantain for constipation in the form of a decoction should not contain boiled extract. As soon as it starts to boil, it must be immediately removed from the heat.
Otherwise, the plantain will lose all its healing properties and become useless.
Read also: how you can cure constipation with flax seeds and a decoction of them.
There are several popular recipes for preparing the decoction:
- Pour a glass of water into a tablespoon of the ingredient and place it on the stove. We wait until the water boils. Taken twice daily.
- Pour a tablespoon of seeds with half a glass of water. We insist, strain and take three times a day.
- Make powder from dried seeds. Three times a day, take ¼ teaspoon on an empty stomach before meals. It is recommended to drink plenty of water.
- Take a glass of boiling water for 10 grams of seeds, add a tablespoon of dried dill. Leave it alone for three hours. Strain and drink the full amount at night.
Plantain seeds can be taken not only in the form of a decoction, but also in pureed form
In order to achieve maximum effect, it must be taken within 10 days. In addition, it is mandatory to drink at least two liters of pure distilled water. After the seeds enter the stomach, they actively absorb water. If this condition is not met, the patient’s condition may seriously deteriorate.
Experts also recommend consuming fern seeds 40 minutes before eating. The maximum dosage of the ingredient per day should not exceed 10 grams. Taking the drug three times a day gives maximum effect. Can be added to food. It is recommended to pre-soak the seeds for 6 hours.
As mentioned earlier, psyllium husk also has a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract and eliminates constipation. This is due to the fact that it contains a large amount of fiber, which promotes the movement of formed feces.
As a result, a reflex occurs in the form of contraction of the intestinal walls. If you need to get rid of mild constipation, which does not occur periodically, you can add a spoonful of husks to a glass of water, milk or juice.
It is recommended to drink the medicine half an hour before meals three times a day.
For constipation, it is recommended to drink plenty of water
If severe, persistent constipation occurs, it is necessary to increase the dosage to two spoons with plenty of liquid. It is recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water throughout the day. Or drink a glass of water immediately after taking the husk.
This ingredient helps to quickly remove all harmful bacteria, cleanse the body of toxins, and also improve the microflora by increasing the number of bifidobacteria.
It is worth noting that the husk is also of some interest to nutritionists, since it does not harm health, and weight is lost as quickly as possible. In addition, the cost of the husk is small, which means preparing a decoction or tincture yourself will not be difficult.
Watch this video if you want to learn everything about the properties of psyllium seed shells:
Source: https://polic-5.ru/pitanie/semena-podorozhnik-lekarstvo-ot-zapora.html
How to take psyllium seeds for constipation
To obtain a mild laxative effect, the seed of sandy and ovoid plantain can be used in the form of:
- Directly from seeds;
- One infusion;
- Jtvara.
It is advisable to take the seeds in crushed form; it is best to grind them in a coffee grinder.
An indispensable condition when taking them is to drink plenty of fluids so that the product can swell. If the effect of use is insufficient, try using plantain seed in a different form using the recipes below.
For constipation, it is recommended to drink a lot of water.
Beneficial features
Not only the whole seeds, but also their husks, which contain a lot of fiber, have beneficial properties of plantain for constipation. But seeds have a higher activity in solving this problem.
Substances included in their composition:
- help speed up the digestive process;
- improve the absorption of essential substances from food in the intestines;
- eliminate intestinal atony, enhance motility;
- a large amount of mucus facilitates the easy passage of food masses through the intestines and
- relieves irritation of the internal membranes of the digestive tract;
- high fiber content increases volume and loosens stool;
- have enterosorbent properties, removing toxic breakdown products from the body;
- improve the composition of intestinal microflora.
Seeds of ovoid and sandy plantain not only facilitate bowel movements, but also eliminate the causes of constipation.
Recipe for home use
It is best to buy plant materials at a pharmacy. It is not recommended to purchase seeds from herbalists at the market, since they may sell large plantain, which is not used for constipation. Only the ovoid and sandy species help in regulating intestinal function.
The sandy species is less common than the greater plantain, and the ovate species is not found at all on the territory of the Russian Federation.
Seed reception
The raw material should be taken in crushed form in the morning before breakfast and at night. The product should be taken with at least a glass of liquid and at least 1.5 liters of water should be drunk throughout the day.
The daily dose is 10 g; for persistent, severe constipation, the daily dose can be increased to 20 g.
Taking a decoction
10 g of seeds are poured into 250 ml of cold water, heated to a boil and simmered over low heat for 15 minutes. Then the broth is allowed to brew for two hours, after which it is filtered. The mucous liquid is drunk on an empty stomach, 1/3 cup three times a day.
A decoction of plantain seeds is drunk on an empty stomach.
Taking water infusion
10 g of crushed raw materials are placed in a glass or enamel container and poured with a glass of boiling water, then wrapped and left to infuse for 15-20 minutes. The cooled infusion is filtered and added with water to the original level. Take 1/3 cup three times a day before meals.
You can also use psyllium husks for constipation, although the effect of its use is lower, since out of the entire list of substances useful for constipation, the husks contain only fiber. Stir two teaspoons of husk in a glass of water or any drink and drink.
Treatment of constipation with plantain seeds should last 10-12 days, after a week or two the course can be repeated. During the course, you must drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day, otherwise the effect may be the opposite of what was expected.
Treatment of constipation with plantain: seeds, husks, preparations | ethnoscience
With frequent manifestations of difficult or insufficient bowel movements, we can talk about constipation (constipation, constipation), which often serves as one of the symptoms of a number of diseases. In the absence of serious complications, doctors prescribe a set of therapeutic measures to eliminate constipation.
They often include traditional medicine made from plant materials, including plantain - in Latin Plantago.
Why does plantain help treat constipation?
Used to relieve problems associated with delayed bowel movement, usually plantain seeds or leaves. Their benefits to the body are explained by the inclusion of various beneficial substances in the chemical composition:
- polysaccharides that provide a softening effect on the mucous membranes and relieve inflammation;
- fatty oil that promotes wound healing;
- aucubin glycoside, which stimulates the functions of the gastrointestinal tract;
- oleanolic acid, which improves blood circulation.
There are various mineral salts, pectin, fatty acids. There are vitamins C, K, carotene, steroid saponins. Medicinal properties:
- anti-inflammatory;
- softening;
- restorative;
- wound healing;
- antibiotic;
- antiseptic;
- antispasmodic.
Medicines made from psyllium seed help relieve inflammation and quickly heal skin lesions.
They lower cholesterol concentrations. Helps improve diabetes by reducing sugar levels. They are used to prevent cardiovascular pathologies.
Plantain helps in the treatment of cough, infertility, hormonal deficiency, hypertension, prostatitis. This type of medicinal raw material is valued for its sorbing qualities, which make it possible to use it in the development of constipation.
Dosage forms based on psyllium seed help soften fecal compactions and activate intestinal peristalsis. They act gently without pain during bowel movements. The foliage of this common plant has a mild laxative effect.
Recipes for internal use
It will be possible to achieve the predicted result of improving bowel movements with the help of plantain if you consult a doctor before starting healing measures. This will allow you to select the most effective methods from the collection of traditional treatments and make your own cleansing products at home.
Powder
Dried plantain seeds are thoroughly ground using a coffee grinder to a fine powder.
You should take 1/4 tsp. before breakfast, lunch, dinner. Take with a cup of warm water. During this therapy, drink about two liters of purified water per day.
Powdered plantain grains help soften hardened stool and safely remove it from the intestines.
Whole plantain seeds will also help. Eat, chew thoroughly, 10 grams of dried raw material in the morning on an empty stomach. Immediately drink a glass of cool water. This session is repeated before bedtime. Treatment of non-chronic constipation lasts 1-3 days.
Dried plantain leaves can be used to obtain a laxative effect. They are ground in a mortar. The powder should be taken 30-35 minutes before breakfast, lunch, dinner, 1/4 teaspoon. Immediately drink water - 1-1.5 glasses.
Decoction
For constipation that occurs periodically, it is recommended to use plantain decoction, which is prepared in accordance with proven folk recipes.
- Pour 50 grams of dried plantain seed into an enamel saucepan with 400 ml of boiling water. Reducing the heat to a minimum, simmer the mixture for a quarter of an hour. The dishes removed from the stove are covered with a double linen napkin and left for two hours. Then squeeze the broth through double gauze. Drink before bed. The predicted laxative effect is observed on average after 8-9 hours.
- Bring 250 ml of water to a vigorous boil in an enamel bowl. Pour 1 tbsp into it. l. dried plantain seed. After boiling for two minutes, remove the container and cool. The filtered decoction is drunk in the morning after waking up.
Infusion
If you have difficulty defecating for two or three days, you can use a recipe for making an infusion. The raw material is dried plantain seeds.
Measure out 10 grams of raw materials. Pour it into a thermos and steam it with a liter of actively boiling water. After three hours, the laxative infusion is expressed through a strainer. You should drink a glass of it before bed or in the morning on an empty stomach. Activation of peristalsis is observed after two to three days of regular use.
With dill
In order to enhance the cleansing effect of the product, it is recommended to combine two types of dried seeds: plantain and dill - 1 tbsp. spoon.
The mixture is placed in a thermos. Pour in a glass of boiling water. Leave to infuse for three hours. The drink, filtered through a strainer, is drunk in full at night.
With chamomile and calendula
To provide a gentle effect on the intestines to eliminate constipation, combine plantain seed with calendula inflorescences - 1 tbsp. l. and chamomile flower baskets - 2 tbsp. spoons.
The mixture is placed in a heat-resistant container. Steam 1/2 liter of actively boiling water. After 15 minutes, squeeze out the liquid fraction through double-folded gauze. Drink 200 ml of infusion every eight hours.
Treatment of constipation with psyllium husk
The husk of plantain seeds (psyllium), which contains a large amount of fiber, is successfully used to solve the problem of difficulty with bowel movements. Purchase this raw material at the pharmacy.
When it enters the intestine, the husk has a beneficial effect on its functions, intensifying peristalsis. This effect makes it easier to remove compacted slag deposits, which improves overall health.
For mild constipation that is not chronic, stir 1 tbsp. l. psyllium in a glass of milk. You can use juice or water. Drink this portion before breakfast, lunch, dinner, observing a time interval of 25-30 minutes.
How to properly treat cough with spruce cones
In order to get rid of persistent constipation, the amount of plantain husk per glass of drink is doubled.
It is imperative that when carrying out therapeutic measures at home with this type of medicinal raw material, the drinking regime is observed. Drink about two liters of filtered water per day.
What to remember
When using plantain to relieve constipation, you need to take into account that there are specific contraindications for this type of medicinal raw material:
- excessive stomach acidity;
- increased blood clotting;
- predisposition to thrombosis;
- intestinal obstruction;
- pregnancy;
- peptic ulcer;
- endometritis;
- personal intolerance;
- tumor intestinal processes;
- lactation period.
To exclude possible harm to health, all healing measures based on plantain seed are agreed upon with a doctor.
It is important to remember that when taking powdered psyllium grains or chewing them whole, careful quality control of the raw materials is necessary. It is advisable to purchase it from a pharmacy chain, checking the information about the shelf life. Also, only high-quality grains that are not affected by traces of mold are used to make decoctions and infusions.
Self-harvesting is carried out in environmentally safe places. Cut off the flower stalks after flowering has ended. Tie in small bunches and hang in the shade with good ventilation. White paper is spread underneath. Thresh when the seeds are completely dry.
When used correctly, plantain seeds help to safely cope with uncomplicated constipation. First, with the help of a doctor, it is advisable to establish the reasons that provoke difficult bowel movements.
This will allow you to select healing techniques suitable for each specific case. You should not exceed the optimal dosage for using self-made products, which will prevent the development of undesirable consequences.
Source: https://happiness-and-beauty.ru/lechenie-zapora-podorojnikom.html
When should you not use plantain seeds?
It is not recommended to use psyllium seeds if you are taking any medications, as their absorption may be impaired.
If any negative side effects or allergic reactions occur, then you should stop taking plantain seeds.
It is strictly forbidden to take psyllium seeds and other laxatives, or do enemas for intestinal obstruction. This dangerous condition requires urgent medical attention.
Plantain in the treatment of constipation and rules for using plant seeds
Many people try to solve many problems throughout the day, so they often save time on eating properly, which is where problems with the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract arise. Plantain seeds for constipation are often prescribed by doctors as an additional way to restore normal bowel function due to their effectiveness.
Not many people know that psyllium seeds are quite effective for constipation.
Seed composition
The composition of the seeds includes many useful substances that have a beneficial effect on the body. Before you read the information about how psyllium seeds work against constipation, it is worth considering the following table:
CompositionFunctions
Polysaccharides | Their content in seeds is about 44%. This element is presented in the form of mucus, which envelops the mucous membrane and reduces the development of the inflammatory process |
Oils containing fatty acids | Carry out the function of regeneration, softening and restoration |
Vitamins and minerals | They contain a sufficient amount of fiber, which promotes active intestinal function and improves peristalsis. |
American researchers conducted a series of experiments that showed the content of specific gluten. It is gluten-free, which is beneficial for people who suffer from celiac disease.
Beneficial features
Psyllium husk for constipation is a universal natural remedy that helps with bowel movements. Whole seeds are also widely used. As for the juice of the plant, it copes well with the side symptoms of chronic gastritis.
Taking psyllium seeds speeds up the digestion of food in the intestines
The following properties of plantain seeds can be distinguished:
- Due to the high fiber content, feces are actively formed.
- Promotes active digestion of food and absorption of necessary substances for the body.
- This is a strong enterosorbent that promotes the removal of decay products and toxins from the body.
- Since the plant contains a large amount of mucus, it forms a membrane for the gastrointestinal tract and promotes rapid healing of wounds.
- Activates intestinal motility and helps with atonic constipation.
- Restoration of microflora in the intestines.
It is important to note that psyllium seeds not only help to remove side symptoms, but also have a qualitative effect on the cause of constipation.
Plantain seeds can be used to restore intestinal microflora
Contraindications for use
At first glance, harmless psyllium seeds also have contraindications that should be taken into account before choosing a drug for constipation. It is not recommended to consume seeds in the following cases:
- specific reaction to the ingredient;
- lactation period;
- pregnancy;
- the presence of an inflammatory process in the gastrointestinal tract;
- endometritis;
- development of malignant formation in the genitourinary system;
- presence of intestinal obstruction;
- allergic reaction to the component;
- children under six years of age.
This method is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
It is worth considering separately the specific reaction of the body to plantain seeds. It is important to understand that individual intolerance may appear as a result. As for side symptoms, they most often occur in the form of:
- Heartburn.
- Vitamin deficiency. Since psyllium seeds remove waste by-products from the body, important elements that contribute to the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and other internal organ systems can also be eliminated.
- The occurrence of an allergic reaction. Most often it manifests itself in the form of rashes or suffocation. If, after consuming the decoction or powder, the patient experiences a deterioration in their physical condition, it is recommended to consult a doctor as soon as possible for advice. The specialist will probably find an alternative solution to the current situation.
Taking the seeds causes heartburn in some people.
Due to the healing properties of plantain seeds, it is used in a wide variety of industries: gynecology, dermatology, cosmetology. In any case, through the use of natural medicine, you can significantly improve your health.
Source: https://kishechnik.guru/lechenie/netraditsionnaya-meditsina/semena-podorozhnika-pri-zaporax.html