Plantago ovata Forssk., Plantago psyllium L.

The therapeutic properties of Plantago ovata Forssk. and Plantago psyllium L. on a variety of gastrointestinal and metabolic problems make them popular medicinal plants. In TPM, the plant has a cold and wet nature and has soothing effects on different organs and can be used as a laxative. A soluble fiber called psyllium, which is obtained from the seeds, has shown therapeutic benefits in the treatment of hypertension, obesity, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, diarrhea, and constipation. According to clinical evidence, this plant is an effective laxative, increasing bowel frequency and consistency while reducing transit time in constipation. Additionally, psyllium has been proven to be a successful treatment for diarrhea, especially in people with IBS. The capacity of psyllium to absorb water and produce a gel-like substance in the colon, which encourages bowel motion and controls digestion, is thought to be the underlying medicinal mechanism. It is also considered that the plant’s ability to bind to bile acids and cholesterol prevents the absorption of such materials and could result in evacuation. The seeds are contraindicated in GI obstruction and intestinal narrowing.