psyllium mechanism of action

Ancient people likened psyllium plant seeds to fleas (Greek psylla). The great Greek physician, pharmacologist, botanist, and author Pedanius Dioscorides recommended it in the 1st century A.D. as an emollient (soothing). It was used this way until the mid-twentieth century when it was also discovered to have mild laxative effects. At present, psyllium is part…