Definition of "psyllium" []

• An annual Eurasian plant (Plantago afra) having opposite leaves and small flowers borne in dense spikes. (noun)
• The seeds of this plant, widely used as a mild bulk laxative and sometimes added to foods as a dietary source of soluble fiber. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Some people allergic to psyllium, which is used in many laxatives."
• "Another effective alternative is soluble fiber from supplements such as psyllium (Metamucil and its generic cousins), preferably combined with plenty of water."
• "GF choices, such as psyllium, ground flaxseeds and rice bran, help maintain regularity and confer additional health benefits."