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Psyllium Husk Extract

Updated: 2026-09-15

Overview

Psyllium Husk Extract is obtained from the outer coating (husk) of Plantago ovata seeds, primarily cultivated in India and Pakistan. It contains up to 70% soluble fiber (arabinoxylan) and is valued for its exceptional gel-forming properties when mixed with water. The extract is processed through milling, sieving, and purification to remove seed contaminants. As a GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) ingredient, it is widely incorporated into fiber supplements, gluten-free baking, and pharmaceutical formulations. Its demand has grown significantly in functional food markets due to increasing consumer focus on digestive wellness and natural ingredients.

Physical and Chemical Properties

The extract is characterized by its high viscosity (up to 40,000 cP in 1% solutions) and ability to absorb water up to 10 times its weight. It is odorless with a mild, nutty flavor. Chemically, it consists of heteropolysaccharides with xylose, arabinose, and galacturonic acid units. Unlike synthetic fibers, psyllium’s gel-forming property is pH-stable in the gastrointestinal tract, making it effective for both laxation and cholesterol binding. Its particle size (typically 80–120 mesh) affects dissolution rates, with finer powders preferred for instant beverage applications.

Main Applications

In the food industry, psyllium is used as a thickener in ice creams and gluten-free breads, where it mimics gluten’s binding properties. Pharmaceutical applications include bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., Metamucil) and tablets as a disintegrant. Emerging uses include low-glycemic index foods due to its blood sugar modulation effects. Nutraceutical manufacturers often combine it with probiotics for synbiotic formulations. In pet foods, it aids hairball control in cats. Industrial applications include biodegradable films and hydrogels for water retention in agriculture.

Safety and Storage

Psyllium is non-toxic but requires adequate hydration (minimum 200ml water per 5g dose) to prevent esophageal or intestinal blockage. Allergic reactions are rare but possible in plantago-sensitive individuals. Storage must avoid humidity to prevent clumping and microbial growth. Bulk shipments should use moisture-proof packaging (e.g., aluminum-lined bags) with oxygen absorbers. Shelf life is typically 24 months if stored properly. Regulatory compliance includes meeting USP/NF or FCC standards for identity, purity, and absence of Salmonella/E. coli.

B2B Procurement Guide

Key specifications to evaluate include fiber content (≥85%), swelling index (≥40ml/g), and microbial counts (<1000 CFU/g). Organic certifications (USDA/EU) are available but command 20–30% price premiums. Suppliers in Gujarat, India, dominate global production, offering competitive pricing for 20MT+ orders. For clinical-grade extracts, request USP-NF or EP monograph compliance documentation. Sample testing should confirm absence of sand or husk fragments. Incoterms preference: CIF for small orders, FOB for bulk. Lead times average 4–6 weeks post-LC confirmation.

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