Does the herb have any side effects, what cautions should be taken when using this medication?
Ideally, Psyllium should only be used after medical consultation. Patients are advised to avoid breathing in the dust from Psyllium powder when mixing, as this can cause allergic reactions when accidentally inhaled. Some of these reactions might include; difficulty breathing, stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, skin rash, itching, upset stomach and vomiting. Often times however, these side effects have largely been limited to employees working Psyllium manufacturing factories. Additionally, despite its association with reducing serum glucose levels in diabetics, people with diabetes who have difficulty regulating their blood sugar should not use Psyllium.
Does it interact with other herbs or pharmaceutical drugs?
Psyllium interacts with four main drug categories; Lithium, Mesalamine, Orlistat and Simvastatin. Whereas Psyllium interactions with Lithium medications may fluctuate between positive and negative depending on the specific constituents of the each Lithium medication, Psyllium generally interacts positively with the other three drug categories. Together, they generally amplify the effects, sought by taking Psyllium. STILL, PSYLLIUM SHOULD BE TAKEN ONLY AFTER CONSULTING WITH A PHYSICIAN OR PHARMACIST!!!
NOT-SO-FUN FACT: Psyllium in rare cases, has been known to cause anaphylactic allergic reactions, and in few cases death. This stresses the importance of taking the herb only after professional consultation.
Hmm . . . when I think drug-drug interactions, I think CYP liver enzymes. That might explain the interations of Psyllium with the drugs you've mentioned above.
ReplyDeletebtw, you're blog background brings a 1940s feel which works well 'cause that's what I get from looking at your flower as well ;D