Isabgol
Psyllium husk (Plantago ovata)
A fibre, not a drug — the gentlest fix for constipation, as long as the water glass is full.
Educational reference only — not medical advice. *Doses shown are typical adult label doses. Read the pack, and confirm with a doctor or pharmacist — especially for children, pregnancy, the elderly, or any chronic condition.
What it's for
Uses
Why it earns its place
Benefits
- Not habit-forming, unlike stimulant laxatives
- Works with your gut's own rhythm — softens and bulks stool naturally
- Also steadies mild loose motions by absorbing excess water
- Modest LDL-cholesterol benefit with regular use
The honest column
Side effects
Common — usually settle
- Bloating or gas in the first days
- Feeling of fullness
Stop & see a doctor
- Taken with too little water it can swell and choke or block — always a FULL glass
- Severe abdominal pain, vomiting or no stool + no gas — possible obstruction, emergency
Before you take it
Cautions & interactions
- Never take dry or with a sip — minimum one full glass (250 ml) of water
- Skip it during severe abdominal pain or suspected blockage
- Take other medicines 1–2 hours apart — fibre can slow their absorption
- Diabetics: some flavoured brands carry added sugar — check the label
On the shelf
Brands in India & where to buy
Prices are indicative MRPs for the listed pack sizes and change often — always verify on the pharmacy listing or pack. Links open marketplace searches; Naked Compound has no sponsorship or affiliate arrangement with any brand listed. Brand names are examples of what's commonly stocked, not endorsements.
When to skip self-medication
Fever beyond 3 days, blood anywhere it shouldn't be, chest pain or breathlessness, severe abdominal pain, a child under 6, pregnancy, or symptoms bouncing back within a week — any of these means see a doctor the same day instead of reaching for this pack.
Read this before you reach for anything
This page is an educational reference, not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a prescription. Doses shown are typical adult label doses for short-term self-care. Children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, the elderly, and anyone with chronic conditions or on regular medication should check with a doctor or pharmacist first. If symptoms are severe, unusual, or match any red flag above, skip the self-medication and see a doctor. Read how we work in our methodology.