Psyllium Benefits for Digestive Health: Your Ultimate Guide to Improved Gut Wellness

Updated on February 9, 2025

John R Wilsdon 

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As a former USN Hospital Corpsman, John draws from many years of experience in surgery and general sick bay treatment.

Psyllium husk

A Brief History of Psyllium

Psyllium, derived from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. The plant itself is native to regions in Asia, particularly India, and the seeds are known for their high fiber content. Ancient civilizations, including those in the Middle East and the Mediterranean, recognized the therapeutic properties of psyllium seeds. Historically, psyllium has been utilized for its laxative effects, aiding in digestion and overall gut health.

The use of psyllium expanded as trade routes opened, and its benefits became known worldwide. In modern times, psyllium is recognized not only for its traditional uses but also for its broader applications in promoting digestive health, managing chronic conditions, and supporting overall wellness.

From Husk to Powder

The raw psyllium seeds go through a mechanical makeover in a no-nonsense cleaning process that efficiently removes all those pesky impurities and debris, ensuring they are spotless. Next, it’s off to the de-husking station, where those seeds get their husks removed by milling machines that are basically professional seed crushers. The husks don’t stand a chance. They fragment and separate, leaving our seeds de-husked and fancy-free.

Once the husks are free, they get the celebrity treatment—they’re purified using gravity separators and winnowing processes to ensure only the finest husks remain. No riffraff allowed. But the party’s not over. To keep things pristine, the husks get a thorough fumigation to kick any lingering pests or contaminants to the curb. Quality and safety are key, after all.

Then it’s on to the sterilization spa, where the husks are pampered with ethylene oxide, methyl bromide, or gamma irradiation treatments, ensuring they are squeaky clean and microorganism-free. Finally, the husks are ready for their final transformation. They are ground into a fine powder using specialized milling equipment. This powder, now the epitome of purity and cleanliness, gets carefully packaged in pristine conditions to maintain its quality and safeguard it from any contamination during storage and transport. Voilà—psyllium perfection!

Uses of Psyllium Powder

Psyllium powder is widely used today due to its versatility and numerous health benefits. Here are some common uses:

1. Digestive Health: Psyllium is most renowned for its ability to promote healthy digestion. It acts as a bulk-forming laxative, absorbing water in the intestines to create a gel-like substance. This helps to soften stools, making them easier to pass and preventing constipation.

2. Weight Management: By promoting a feeling of fullness, psyllium can aid in weight management. When taken before meals, it can help reduce appetite and decrease overall calorie intake.

3. Blood Sugar Control: Psyllium can help stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of sugar in the intestines. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

4. Cholesterol Reduction: Regular consumption of psyllium has been shown to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. The soluble fiber in psyllium binds to cholesterol in the digestive system and helps remove it from the body.

5. Heart Health: By improving cholesterol levels and aiding in weight management, psyllium contributes to overall heart health. It helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system and reduces the risk of heart disease.

6. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Psyllium can help manage symptoms of IBS by regulating bowel movements and improving overall gut health.

7. Skin Health: While not as commonly known, psyllium can also be used in skincare. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis when applied topically.

How long does it take for psyllium powder to make you feel full?

About fiber so minutes!

The Plantago ovata plant, source of psyllium powder.

One notable result from the use of psyllium is that it may, by promoting regularity, keep diverticula from getting larger.

Ayurvedic Connection

Psyllium husk has been used for centuries, dating back to ancient times. It was traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine (an ancient Indian system of medicine) to treat digestive issues like constipation and diarrhea.

In the 16th century, European folk medicine also recognized psyllium husk as a remedy for constipation. It entered Western culture more prominently when Metamucil, a popular fiber supplement containing psyllium husk, was introduced in the United States in 1934.

Why did the doctor prescribe a rounded teaspoon of medicine to the mathematician?

Because they couldn't measure accurately, but they were well-rounded!

Mixing Psyllium Powder for Use

I mix a rounded teaspoon of psyllium powder in an 8-ounce cup of water. Most containers say to use 1 to 3 times a day. You should consult a doctor before you dose.

The flavor is bland, but not bad. I have found that mixing a small amount of a Great Value Electrolyte Vitamin Enhanced Strawberry Kiwi Drink mix stick turns the blend into a pleasing drink. You will have to experiment to find out how much (but not much) is required to meet your taste. At 6 sticks per pack, it lasts quite a while.

Of course, read the directions on your powder package.

A Cautionary Note

While psyllium powder is often a hero in the world of fiber supplements, it’s not without its potential pitfalls. Some people might experience severe allergic reactions, which can include a rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, and throat tightness. Think of it as a highly unwanted surprise party. If you encounter any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate—seek medical help immediately.

In rare cases, psyllium can cause gastrointestinal blockages, such as esophageal impaction or bezoars (those indigestible masses that sound like something out of a medieval tale). These blockages can lead to severe stomach pain, constipation, and rectal bleeding. So, if your tummy's throwing a tantrum, it’s best to consult a doctor.

Then there’s the potential issue of difficulty swallowing—psyllium can swell in your throat if not taken with enough liquid, turning your drink into an uninvited guest at your throat’s party and potentially causing choking or trouble swallowing.

Some individuals may develop hypersensitivity from inhaling the fine dust particles of psyllium powder, especially in pharmaceutical manufacturing settings. It's crucial to follow the recommended dosage and mix instructions to avoid any dramatic dust explosions.

And remember, self-care with psyllium should always come with a disclaimer: let your physician know you're using it. That way, you and your fiber can continue to live happily ever after!

 

Sources

Lefton, Jennifer, MS, RD/N (September 8, 2024). The Health Benefits of Psyllium Husk Powder. Retrieved from Psyllium Husk Powder: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage

Staughton, John BASc, BFA (July 3, 2020). 8 Surprising Benefits of Psyllium. Retrieved from 8 Surprising Benefits of Psyllium | Organic Facts

Hills, Jenny Nutritionist and Medical Writer (August 20, 2018). Scientifically Proven Benefits of Psyllium (Husk, Powder, and Capsules. Retrieved from Scientifically Proven Benefits of Psyllium (Husk, Powder, and Capsules)

Wikipedia (November 7,2024). Psyllium. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psylliu

11 Legendary Gold Hotspots in Arizona: Where to Strike It Rich

I found this article very informative - it details 11 of the richest gold mining locations in Arizona. It includes basic maps of Cattail Cove State Park, Vulture City Ghost Town, Little San Domingo Wash, Oatman, Gold Basin, Greaterville, Lynx Creek, Bradshaw Mountains, Quartzite, Superstition Mountains, and Cloride.

See https://howtofindgoldnuggets.com/11-richest-gold-mining-locations-arizona/

Yard Work Turns to Fortune: A Vermont Woman’s Unexpected Treasure

 Report on May 27, 2025 

Gold Beneath the Grass: A Mysterious Chest Found in Vermont

This New England town is not short of talk these days. Buried treasure including old coins and antiques have been found in St.Albans, Vermont. Taking care of vegetation in Taylor Park seemed so every day for Kelly Wakefield. That she was startled by her find would be an understatement.

Kelly had been reading the book "Lady Liberty's Treasure Hunt." The book gives clues to the reader about hidden treasure in the Northeast. In spring, as she worked in the park, she dug up a skull that displayed a skull and crossbones. On a stone was a code that was just like one seen in her book. This accounted for her continued digging for treasure.

Wakefield found herself near a shrub.  Low and behold, she found silver and gold coins. In addition, there were antiques and collectables. The number of coins could have filled a small chest. I recall the time, as a boy, that I found two military buttons near a park in the Arizona desert. One was bronze with 4 holes - a coat button with U.S. embossed. The other was a bronze general service button with eagle. I was so excited; so, imagine Wakefield's excitement. The treasure included a Civil War-era bullet, referencing the infamous 1864 raid of St. Albans by Confederate soldiers who snuck in through Canada.

Other treasure chests are suggested to be in New England. Although waiting to be dug, searching for treasure is a family activity that rewards by doing road trips. Our country is a treasure, but seeing the outdoors and imbibing the history goes a long way to a satisfying treasure adventure. And beyond that, think of all the places you have visited prior to having an interest in treasure. Are some of those places candidates for exploration?

As far as St. Albans is concerned; there is a museum and a Wednesday evening summer concert series in Taylor Park starting in June. Wakefield has placed her treasure in a safety-deposit box. She is contemplating an appraisal, especially if it can supplement a retirement fund. She went on to say the treasure discovery was a "fun thing," and it inspired her to keep exploring the Northeast and its history.

Courtesy of Pixabay

Casual Walk, Historic Find: Woman Discovers Priceless Medieval Coins in Countryside

 During a leisurely walk through the scenic Kutnohorsk Region in the Czech Republic, an unsuspecting woman stumbled upon a remarkable treasure—a hidden stash of over 2,150 medieval silver coins dating back nearly 900 years. Once carefully stored in a ceramic pot, the coins had remained untouched since the turbulent early 12th century, safeguarding a piece of history from a time of political upheaval. Although the pot itself had deteriorated, the coins were a preserved relic, offering a glimpse into the lives and events of a bygone era. Experts from the Institute of Archaeology of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic and the Czech Silver Museum in Kutná Hora are now working to analyze and restore this astonishing find. Their goal is to uncover the secrets of the coins' origins, composition, and historical significance.

Archaeologist Filip Velímský hailed the discovery as one of the most exciting finds in recent years, likening it to striking a jackpot—but with a poignant twist. “Placed during the first quarter of the 12th century, at a time of internal political instability, these coins tell a story of power struggles and survival,” Velímský explained. Disputes among members of the Přemysl dynasty over the princely throne of Prague had made the region a volatile battleground, where treasures were hidden and lost amidst chaos. The wealth represented by the coin collection was extraordinary for its time, unimaginable for an ordinary person to possess. Velímský speculated that the coins could have served as soldiers' wages or "war booty" during the dynastic conflicts that defined the area. Preliminary studies reveal that the coins were minted under the reigns of King Vratislav II and princes Břetislav II and Bořivoj II, spanning several decades of Přemysl rule. Crafted primarily from silver alloyed with copper, lead, and traces of other metals, the coins are believed to have originated from the Prague mint. Researchers hope to trace the source of the silver to better understand the trade networks and economic practices of medieval Bohemia.

The museum staff now faces the meticulous task of cleaning, restoring, and cataloging each coin, employing advanced techniques like X-ray imaging and spectral analysis. The final goal is to display the collection publicly in 2025, sharing this captivating piece of Czech history with the world. While the original owner of this treasure remains a mystery, the discovery continues to illuminate the complex and storied past of the Czech Republic, inviting us to imagine the lives of those who once held these coins in their hands.

An Ancient Treasure Discovered off of Egypt's Coast Dazzles Archaeologists

 

A sunken temple, a sanctuary in Egypt, was found in 2023 revealing one huge treasure. Artifacts discovered in the temple include gold objects and jewelry. A spectacular pillar made of lapis lazuli was found in a canal off the coast. Overflowing with treasure, this underwater discovery is astonishing.

Collapsing halfway through the second century B.C., the temple was dedicated to Amun, an Egyptian god. Pharaohs traveled to this place of distinction to be given the title of "universal king."

Once a port city of Thonis-Heraclaion, this abandoned collapsed building (underwater) 4.3 miles from the current coast of Egypt, was destroyed by the combination of an earthquake and resulting tidal wave. 

Turning into a cauldron of liquified mud, this ancient city sank into the Nile Delta. Archaeologists unearthed silver ritual instruments, and alabaster containers that held perfumes and unguents.

In addition to the above-mentioned treasures, divers discovered preserved wooden structures dating to the fifth century B.C. It was amazing that the wood beams and posts survived this kind of cataclysm. 

Archaeologists found a Greek sanctuary dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The sanctuary also contained precious artifacts of bronze and ceramics. Greeks were allowed to trade and settle in the city while the pharaohs ruled, and these very same Greeks were allowed to have their own gods at the temple. The sanctuary also held a cache of Greek weapons

Perhaps Greek mercenaries were there defending this access to Egypt. The access was at the mouth of the Nile's westernmost branch.

The Legendary Whydah Gally: Unveiling the Secrets of History’s Most Famous Pirate Shipwreck

By jjsala - Flickr: DSC_0342, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=22023395

The Whydah Gally was a British ship originally built in 1715 as a slave ship. It was captured by the infamous pirate Captain Samuel "Black Sam" Bellamy in 1717, during the Golden Age of Piracy. Bellamy transformed the Whydah into his flagship, using it to plunder other vessels along the American coast.

Tragically, the Whydah Gally met its end on April 26, 1717, when it was caught in a violent storm off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The ship sank, taking with it Bellamy, most of his crew, and a vast treasure of gold, silver, and other valuables. Only two crew members survived the wreck.

The shipwreck was discovered in 1984 by underwater explorer Barry Clifford. It remains the only fully authenticated pirate shipwreck ever found. Among the artifacts recovered are cannons, coins, and the ship's bell, which bears the inscription "The Whydah Gally 1716." Excavations are ongoing, and the site continues to yield fascinating historical treasures.

1. The Ship's Origins: The Whydah was named after the West African port of Ouidah (modern-day Benin), where it was originally used for the transatlantic slave trade. It was a state-of-the-art ship for its time, boasting speed and firepower.

2. Captain Bellamy's Leadership: Samuel "Black Sam" Bellamy was a charismatic and democratic pirate captain. He was known for treating his crew well, and his ship operated on pirate codes, where decisions and the distribution of loot were often made collectively. Bellamy earned the nickname "Prince of Pirates" for his charm and fairness.

3. The Treasure: The Whydah Gally was laden with loot from over 50 plundered ships when it sank. The treasure included gold, silver, jewelry, and other valuables, much of which remains buried beneath the sands off Cape Cod.

4. The Discovery: When Barry Clifford discovered the wreck in 1984, it marked a significant moment in maritime archaeology. The site was identified by the ship's bell, inscribed with "The Whydah Gally 1716," which authenticated the find.

5. Ongoing Excavations: The wreck site continues to be explored, with new artifacts regularly unearthed. These include personal items from the crew, navigational tools, and weaponry, providing a glimpse into pirate life in the 18th century.

6. Educational Impact: Many of the recovered artifacts are displayed in museums and traveling exhibitions, such as the Whydah Pirate Museum in West Yarmouth, Massachusetts. These displays allow people to connect with the history of piracy and the transatlantic world.

The Whydah Gally is a treasure trove not just of gold and silver but of history and storytelling.

If you want the whole skinny, go to https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whydah_Gally

"The Legacy of Legendary Treasure Hunts: From Kit Williams' Masquerade to Forrest Fenn's Epic Chase"

 Crypto millionaire John Collins-Black, a California man, hid more than $2,000,000 in 5 boxes across the United States.

It wasn't the first treasure hunt of its kind. Back in 1979, British author Kit Williams published "Masquerade," a children's book filled with riddles that led readers to a hidden golden rabbit. This prized treasure was found three years later, though reportedly with the aid of insider information.

Fast forward to 1982, and Byron Preiss introduced "The Secret," a quest to discover 12 treasure boxes. Clues were embedded in cryptic verses with lines like, "Thucydides is/North of Xenophon/Take five steps/In the area of his direction." Despite Preiss' passing in 2005, only three of these treasure boxes have been found to date, as reported by the Boston Globe. Several other treasure hunts followed, including one for a golden owl.

Forrest Fenn’s treasure hunt, however, stood out due to its widespread appeal. The hunt offered an estimated prize of $1 million to $2 million, making it an enticing pursuit. Moreover, the accompanying poem made the challenge seem accessible and solvable for everyday individuals, according to Jenny Kile, who runs a website dedicated to tracking such treasure hunts.

Over time, the hunt attracted thousands of hopefuls seeking life-changing fortunes, scouring locations in New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana. For many, it offered a sense of community and a purpose-driven adventure, especially in places like Yellowstone. Yet for some, it became an obsession.

In a 2021 study, psychology professor Alan King wrote, "Amateur treasure hunting has evolved into a distinctive American subculture, typified by the Fenn chase community." He discovered that most participants found the intellectual or emotional rewards of the chase to be more valuable than the “likely unattainable goal, with its associated risks."

For more on the story, see Crypto millionaire's $2M fortune sparks hunt for hidden treasure

       John Collins-Black - the man who has created a treasure hunt around the United States.

Underwater Archaeologists Uncover Gold and Silver Ritual Treasures in Sunken Egyptian Temple

Tools of the Temple

Underwater archaeologists have made an incredible discovery off the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, where they unearthed a sunken temple, and a sanctuary filled with ancient treasures. The temple, dedicated to the god Amun, partially collapsed during a cataclysmic event in the mid-second century B.C. This temple was of great importance, as pharaohs visited it to receive their titles of power from Amun, the supreme god of the ancient Egyptian pantheon, according to the European Institute for Underwater Archaeology (IEASM).

Located in the ancient port city of Thonis-Heracleion, now submerged and about 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) from Egypt's modern-day coast, the temple was destroyed when a major earthquake and tidal waves caused the land to liquefy and sink into the Nile delta.

During their exploration, archaeologists uncovered a wealth of treasures, including silver ritual instruments, gold jewelry, and alabaster containers once used for perfumes and unguents. Additionally, divers found well-preserved wooden posts and beams dating back to the fifth century B.C.

Franck Goddio, president of IEASM and the French underwater archaeologist leading the excavations, expressed his amazement at the discovery, saying, "It is extremely moving to discover such delicate objects, which survived intact despite the violence and magnitude of the cataclysm."

East of the temple, archaeologists discovered a Greek sanctuary dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. This sanctuary contained numerous artifacts, including imported bronze and ceramic objects, illustrating that Greeks who traded and settled in the city during the time of the Pharaohs had their own sanctuaries.

The sanctuary also housed a cache of Greek weapons, suggesting that Greek mercenaries were present in the region to defend the access to the Kingdom at the mouth of the Nile's Canopic branch.

Unveiling Ancient Wealth: Japanese Coins Discovered in Rare Hoard

Japanese and Chinese coins can have square holes in the center.

Stacks of Japanese coin bundles were recently found in Japan. Lying on straw woven mats, these coins have square holes in the middle indicating where a string bound them together.

Archaeologists in Maebashi, a city approximately 60 miles (100 kilometers) northwest of Tokyo, have discovered an enormous cache of about 100,000 coins. This significant find occurred during excavations ahead of the construction of a factory, as reported by The Asahi Shimbun.

So far, only 334 coins have been examined. The oldest among them originates from China, dating back to 175 B.C., while the most recent is from A.D. 1265. The hoard comprises 1,060 bundles, each containing roughly 100 coins. The oldest coin bears the Chinese inscription "Banliang," which translates to "half ounce" and was commonly used in China about 2,200 years ago, according to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

Ethan Segal, an associate professor of history at Michigan State University who was not involved with the discovery, states that numerous coin hoards have been found throughout Japan. These hoards, mainly from Japan's medieval period (13th to 16th centuries), have been unearthed in various locations across the archipelago. Of note, this period (13th to 16 centuries) is a time when many hoards of coins, particularly in Great Britain, have been found all over the world.

Japan began producing its own metal currency in the late seventh century, inspired by Chinese coins with square holes. This design allowed people to string together large amounts of coins, typically 100 per string. Online images of the hoard reveal many coins featuring these square holes.

Segal noted that Japan ceased minting its coins in the mid-10th century due to economic changes and a scarcity of copper ore. Consequently, Chinese coins were sometimes used instead. Segal speculates that many of the uncovered coins may belong to the Northern Song dynasty (960 to 1127). After the Northern Song was overrun by the Jurchen in the early 12th century, their coins lost value, making them more likely to be used for purchasing goods abroad.

Unlocking the Secrets of the Gold Dry Washer: A Comprehensive Guide for Prospectors

A modern dry washer much easier to use than mine.

This article unveils the workings of a dry washer, an invention so simple yet brilliant that even the average reader can appreciate its ingenuity. The dry washer, reminiscent of a medieval or renaissance machine, could even be mistaken for a device of torture!

The Hopper Box

At the top of the machine is a hopper box, covered with a 1/4-inch screen through which dirt is thrown. Each shovelful is "classified" into material free of rocks or pebbles larger than a quarter inch. Weeds and organic matter are also filtered out. I always examine the rocks that fall off after each shovel full to ensure I haven't missed a colossal gold nugget.

Despite classifying tons of material over the years, I've yet to find such a nugget, though I still dream about it! Many people use metal detectors to scan the rocks that pile up in front of the machine, adding real meaning to the phrase "gold is precious." There is a sheet metal chute at the top that guides the rocks away from the machine to prevent them from piling up at the legs. At the back of the hopper is a rod that, when pulled, opens a trap door to allow material to fall onto a riffle box.

The Riffle Box

A riffle box is essentially a rectangular tray with small rails periodically placed across it to slow down the material being jostled through. A bellows below drives up and down, tapping the box and blowing air against and through the cloth that forms the riffle box bottom. This process helps separate gold from other materials because gold is 19 times heavier than water. When gold hits a riffle, it sinks and stops. By the time the material reaches the bottom riffle, 98% of the gold flakes are trapped behind the riffles, or so claim most commercial dry washer manufacturers.

Once only the material behind the riffles is left, it's time to empty the riffle box, as this dirt contains the gold. A bar that straddles the riffle box, holding it in place when down then allows it to be removed when up.

Automatic vs. Manual Dry Washers

Most modern dry washers are equipped with electric motors to drive the bellows. They are often made of lightweight aviation aluminum with folding legs, hoppers, and riffle boxes for portability. My dry washer, however, is manually cranked. While this means I don't need a battery and motor, the downside is that it's heavier and doesn't fold up, making it cumbersome in rough terrain.

Despite these challenges, I find my dry washer useful. It cost around $200 compared to the $500-$600 price tag of motorized versions. There are pros and cons to everything. Sometimes, I carry buckets of dirt from the dig site to my parked truck to process the material. This method has saved my wife's roses from the massive dirt piles I used to create in the backyard when panning at home.

The V-Shape Design

The V-shape design of the machine enhances the flow of dirt. Some people find it odd, but I initially thought the noise and bellows motion made it look like it was about to take off! The pulley and belt drive connects to a crank lever under the bellows, pushing it up and down. Adjusting the shaft at the hopper controls the dirt feed onto the riffle box.

Gold Blasts Off

With gold selling at around $2700 an ounce (Jan 2024), more people are interested in collecting gold placer flakes. These enthusiasts prefer digging riverbeds, streams, dry washes, ancient waterways, and arroyos where gold flakes have been deposited. 

For those who enjoy outdoor exercise, camaraderie in a club, and a bit of gold fever, I recommend finding a local treasure hunting club. Google GPAA to find clubs in every U.S. state. While GPAA has the most clubs, there are unaffiliated clubs, too. As for curing gold fever—I haven't found a remedy yet!

The Keene 160 Mini Dry Washer

One intriguing rather new dry washer is the Keene 160 Mini, combining a dry washer and high banker into one compact unit weighing 29 pounds. This is a game-changer for those with respiratory issues, as it offers a dustless operation, making it ideal for prospectors with asthma. Although I can't afford it, I was impressed when I saw it in action at gold mining shows.