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Ispaghula, also known as spogel seeds, is an almost stemless small herb covered with dense and soft hairy growth. It has very narrow leaves and minute flowers in oval or cylindrical spikes. The upper half of its fruits opens like a lid and its seeds are boat shaped. The seeds of this plants, also known as fleaseeds, constitute the drug.
Isapaghula is indigenous to India, and has been used extensively in the Indian system of medicine from ancient times. It was prescribed by ancient physicians as a cure for inflammatory and functional derangemnents of the mucous membranes of the gastro-intestinal and genito-urinary system.
Healing Power and Curative Properties
The medicinal properties of the seeds are largely due to the large amount of mucilage and albuminous matter present in them. The seeds are cooling and mildly laxative. They act as a diuretic and also have a soothing effect on the skin and mucous membranes.
Isapaghula husk is the dry seed-cover of the plant, obtained by crushing the seeds and separating the husk by winnowing. The husk has similar properties as the seeds.
Constipation
Due to its soothing effect on the mucous membranes Ispaghula us used in constipation. The seeds should be soaked in water before use, which makes them disintegrate in the alimentary canal. The large amount of mucilage in the seeds binds and increases the mass of the stool, thus smoothening its passage. The action is, chiefly mechanical, rather than physiological. Two tablespoons of the seeds should be taken with milk or water in this condition. The seeds are particularly useful in chronic constipation characterized by spasms.
Dysentery
Ispaghula seeds are a popular remedy for several kinds of chronic dysentery and diarrhoea.
Abdominal Pain
Ispaghula is useful in treating frequent griping in the belly caused by stomach ulcers. The high mucilaginous content in the herb forms a covering inside the intestinal wall which protects the lining mucosa and helps in the healing of ulcers. Irritation and gripe will also decrease.
Piles
Ispaghula sees are one of the most effective remedies for piles. While the high mucilage content in this herb cures constipation, the rich tannin content cures inflammation and ulceration in the intestingal track up to the anus. This double action helps cure piles.
Gonorrhoea
Ispaghula is very useful in the treatment of gonorrhoea because of its diuretic and soothing properties.
Take 2 capsules 2 times a day. | 
