psyllium

[sil-ee-uhm]

noun

1. fleawort.

2. Also called psyllium seed. the seeds of this plant, used as a laxative.

psyllium

/ ˈsɪlɪəm /

noun

1. a grain, Plantago psafra , the husks of which are used medicinally as a laxative and to reduce blood cholesterol levels

Word History and Origins

Origin of psyllium¹

1595–1605; < New Latin < Greek psýllion, psyllíon, derivative of psýlla flea

Word History and Origins

Origin of psyllium¹

C16: Latin, from Greek psulla flea, due to the resemblance of the seeds to fleas

Example Sentences

The research also found that supplements such as psyllium fiber, certain probiotics, and magnesium oxide may provide additional relief.

Read more on Science Daily

Diet: "You can increase the amount of fruit and fibre in your diet. You can look for things like psyllium husk, flaxseed and chia seeds to encourage it to move."

Read more on BBC

There are many other approaches that can be effective, such as chewing sugarless gum or taking psyllium.

Read more on Seattle Times

Functional fiber — such as inulin, maltodextrin, guar gum and psyllium — have been extracted from natural sources, processed and added back to foods or supplements because they have health benefits.

Read more on Seattle Times

A: Most people think of psyllium as a laxative.

Read more on Seattle Times