Plantago ovata seed coat powder or wafers are a great source of soluble fiber that can help treat common digestive problems, such as constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, and irritable bowel syndrome. The seed coat of Plantago ovata absorbs water as it passes through the digestive tract, and forms large, soft stools. Several studies have shown that the seed coat of Plantago ovata may also reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol by providing additional fiber to your diet. Keep reading to learn how to consume the seed coat of Plantago ovata.
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Part 1 of 3: Choosing Plantago ovata Seed Skin Products
Step 1. Understand the uses of Plantago ovata seed coat
The seed coat of Plantago ovata is a great source of soluble fiber, which is often used to treat occasional constipation, as well as to help restore bowel habits. Plantago ovata seed coat works by absorbing water in the digestive tract and combining with water to form large, soft stools. This process stimulates digestion and helps speed up the passage of stool. Therefore, the seed coat of Plantago ovata is known as a large, soft stool-forming laxative.
The seed coat of Plantago ovata is also used to help treat irritable bowel syndrome and diverticular disease. Both conditions cause pain and indigestion which can be alleviated by incorporating the Plantago ovata seed coat into your daily diet
Step 2. Consult a doctor before purchasing a Plantago ovata seed coat product
Your doctor may prohibit the use of Plantago ovata seed coat products if you are taking certain medications. Plantago ovata may inhibit the absorption of certain drugs into the digestive system.
If your doctor allows you to take Plantago ovata seed coat products with your medication, your doctor may also recommend that you take Plantago ovata seed coat products at least 2 hours before or after taking your medication. The time lapse between the consumption of the Plantago ovata seed coat and the consumption of the drug will reduce the possibility of the Plantago ovata seed coat interfering with drug absorption
Step 3. Choose the Plantago ovata seed coat product that suits your needs
There are many forms of Plantago ovata seed coat products, from powders to cookies. Pure Plantago ovata seed coat powder has a texture like sawdust which is unpleasant to some people, so Plantago ovata seed coat products are also available in other flavored and soluble forms. Another advantage of this product is that it has a better taste and texture than pure Plantago ovata seed coat.
- Plantago ovata seed coat products such as Metamucil are known as Plantago ovata blonde and often contain sugar and other additives. You can buy flavored Metamucil powder mixed with water, or you can buy cookies or wafers that contain the seed coat of Plantago ovata. Follow the directions on the package when consuming either form of the Plantago ovata seed coat product.
- If you like, buy a pure Plantago ovata seed coat powder product at a nutrition or health food store. This form of the Plantago ovata seed coat product contains no added flavorings or sugars; So, it is best mixed with water or juice.
Step 4. Read the instructions on the package before purchasing any Plantago ovata seed coat product
Make sure you understand the instructions regarding the dosage and contraindications of the product before purchasing the product. If you have any questions about the product and whether there are interactions with certain medications, ask your pharmacist.
Part 2 of 3: Eating Plantago ovata Seed Shells
Step 1. Read the instructions on the product packaging before consuming Plantago ovata seed coat powder
Some products may not be compatible with certain medications or chronic conditions. In addition, the dosage of each product is different. Most Plantago ovata seed coat products can be taken 1-3 times a day.
Your doctor may suggest a higher dose to relieve severe constipation or diarrhea, or for other problems
Step 2. Slowly add the Plantago ovata seed coat to your diet
It's better to add fiber to your diet slowly to reduce discomfort, bloating, and farting. Measure the dose of Plantago ovata seed coat by 1/2 tsp for the first consumption, and increase the dose by 1/2 tsp every few days until you reach the recommended dose.
Step 3. Mix Plantago ovata seed coat powder with 240 ml of water or juice
Stir for 10 seconds until dissolved. Add more water/juice if it's too thick. Do not let the mixture sit after mixing, as a gel will start to form, making it difficult to swallow.
Step 4. Immediately drink the mixture
The seed coat of Plantago ovata becomes gelled and clumps only after a while. If consumed in such semi-solid form, it may cause a choking hazard. Make sure you use enough fluids and drink the mixture immediately to prevent a choking hazard.
If the Plantago ovata seed coat mixture turns into a gel, throw it away and make a new mixture
Step 5. Increase the dose to 2 tsp in 240 ml of water after 1-2 weeks
If you consume more than one dose of Plantago ovata seed coat, try to space it out throughout the day. For example, take 1 dose of Plantago ovata seed coat product in the morning, 1 dose during the day, and one dose at night.
- Keep in mind that your doctor may recommend a higher dose to relieve severe constipation or diarrhea. Do not exceed the recommended dose, except according to doctor's orders.
- For the treatment of high cholesterol, 10-12 g of Plantago ovata seed coat may be prescribed by a doctor. The dose is approximately 2-3 tablespoons of Plantago ovata seed coat, divided into smaller doses with 240-480 ml of water throughout the day.
- If you suspect that you have overdosed on Plantago ovata seed coat, contact your nearest poison control center immediately.
Step 6. Consume one serving of Plantago ovata seed coat wafer if unable to swallow Plantago ovata seed coat drink
The wafer shape may also be a better choice if you don't like the taste of the Plantago ovata seed coat drink. Eat the wafer in small bites, and chew each bite well. Drink a glass of water or juice while eating wafers. This will ensure that the seed coat of Plantago ovata immediately forms a lump when it reaches the stomach.
Step 7. Take Plantago ovata seed coat capsules if you can't take the powder or wafer form without feeling nauseous or uncomfortable
Read the directions on the product packaging to determine how many capsules to take each dose, and how many doses to take each day. Swallow the capsule with a large glass of water.
Step 8. Be patient when using Plantago ovata seed coat products for constipation
It may take up to 3 days before symptoms improve. After that, the stools should be softer, and bowel movements should be more frequent. If the Plantago ovata seed coat has been recommended by a doctor, continue using it as directed by the doctor.
See a doctor if symptoms do not improve after 3-5 days of treatment. Do not use Plantago ovata seed coat products for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor
Step 9. Make lifestyle changes to help with constipation
If you plan to consume Plantago ovata seed coat to help with constipation, be sure to include other positive lifestyle changes as well. Constipation means passing stools less than three times per week. Stool conditions are hard and difficult to pass. If you are constipated, try the following lifestyle changes:
- Drink lots of fluids. The Institute of Medicine recommends consuming a combination of water AND fluids of about 3 L for men and 2 L for women.
- Increase your intake of natural fiber. Fruits, such as pears, berries, prunes, and apples, are high in fiber. Beans, sweet potatoes, spinach, and whole grains are also great sources of natural fiber.
- Avoid processed foods that are high in sugar or fat. Such foods include white bread, donuts, sausages, fast food, french fries, etc.
- Don't delay defecation. Holding back or delaying bowel movements can make constipation worse. Stools can become harder, and if they are delayed, the body may not be ready to have a bowel movement later.
- Exercise every day. Exercise can help stimulate the digestive tract, thereby helping the body process food.
Part 3 of 3: Know When to Call the Doctor
Step 1. Call your doctor if constipation doesn't improve after a few days
If constipation persists for more than a week, contact your doctor immediately. Also call your doctor if there are any drastic changes in bowel habits, such as bloody stools or rectal bleeding. These symptoms can indicate a serious problem that requires medical treatment.
Step 2. Call your doctor if you experience minor side effects from using Plantago ovata seed coat products
Some people experience negative side effects and mild allergic reactions from using Plantago ovata seed coat products. Stop using the product and contact your doctor if you experience any of the mild side effects listed below. Some of the side effects to watch out for include:
- fart
- stomach pain
- diarrhea
- constipation
- nauseous
- have a cold
- headache
- back pain
- cough
Step 3. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe side effects
In some cases, an allergic reaction to Plantago ovata seed coat products can lead to a life-threatening situation. If you experience any of the following list of severe side effects, call the emergency number immediately, or go to the emergency room immediately. Severe symptoms from using Plantago ovata seed coat products to watch out for include:
- red face
- severe itching
- shortness of breath/shortness of breath
- wheezing (wheezing breath)
- swollen face/body
- chest and throat tightness
- lost consciousness
- chest pain
- gag
- difficulty swallowing/breathing
Tips
Try another Plantago ovata seed coat product if you don't like the product you tried the first time. Some Plantago ovata seed coat powder products are tasteless and dissolve well so they can be added to soups, ice cream, and yogurt
Warning
- Children should not consume Plantago ovata seed coat products. All fiber intake of children must come from healthy foods.
- Do not use Plantago ovata seed coat products as a substitute for dietary fiber. Foods that are natural sources of fiber include oatmeal, lentils, apples, oranges, oat bran, pears, strawberries, hard beans, flaxseeds, beans, blueberries, cucumbers, celery, and carrots.
