psyllium

noun

psyl·​li·​um ˈsi-lē-əm How to pronounce psyllium (audio)
: the seed of a fleawort (especially Plantago psyllium) that has the property of swelling and becoming gelatinous when moist and is used as a mild laxative

called also psyllium seed

Examples of psyllium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Read More: Why Your Breakfast Should Start With a Vegetable Some fiber supplements, such as psyllium husk and beta-glucans, have been shown to support health by improving cholesterol, digestion, and blood sugar levels, says Phillips. Perri Ormont Blumberg, Time, 5 June 2025 One supplement is psyllium, a type of soluble fiber that comes from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant. Lauren O'Connor, Health, 3 June 2025 Kassim, who treats patients with irritable bowel syndrome, often recommends methylcellulose as a supplement over the popular psyllium husk because people will be more likely to stick with it. Akshay Syal, NBC news, 31 May 2025 Research shows that taking fiber supplements, especially those containing psyllium fiber, can help prevent constipation.11 Stay hydrated: Hydration is crucial for bowel regularity. Robert Burakoff, Health, 1 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for psyllium

Word History

Etymology

New Latin psyllium, from Greek psyllion fleawort, from psylla

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of psyllium was in 1598

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Psyllium.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/psyllium. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

psyllium

noun
psyl·​li·​um ˈsil-ē-əm How to pronounce psyllium (audio)
1
2
: psyllium seed
also : the husks of psyllium seed
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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