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How do I Use Psyllium Husk for a Colon Cleanse?

Diane Goettel
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Updated: Mar 03, 2024
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The two basic ways to use psyllium husk for a colon cleanse include mixing the husk with water or taking it in a capsule. There are a number of psyllium husk products on the market. One can visit a local health food store or vitamin store and review all of the options that are available. Many people prefer to use the capsules, as the husks expand very quickly when added to water and can cause the resulting beverage to become rather thick. Those who don't mind this effect and are willing to drink the mixture very quickly may be able to use the loose husks in order to complete a colon cleanse.

There are some colon cleansing systems that incorporate herbal teas and herbal supplements into the process. These can aid the process, but are not necessary for the psyllium husk to take effect. Other than husks, the most important ingredient is water. When using psyllium husk for a colon cleanse, the psyllium must have the ability to absorb water and expand in the colon. Without enough water, this process can be compromised and the person may become dehydrated.

Be sure to follow the dosage instructions when using psyllium husks. In most cases, a person who is using them for a colon cleanse will take two doses of psyllium husk per day for the length of the colon cleanse. These doses usually result in bowel movements that are more frequent than usual, larger than usual, or both.

The length of a colon cleanse can vary from a few days to a few weeks. Cleanses that take place over a longer period of time are usually part of a system that involves dietary changes and various supplements. Before using doing a colon cleanse, consult a medical professional. This will help to determine whether it is safe to do and what type of cleanse might best address one's needs.

In order to boost the effectiveness of a colon cleanse using psyllium husk, it is best to avoid processed foods, refined foods, and foods that are high in fat, sugar, and salt. Sticking to fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is a very good way to aid the colon cleansing process. Fruit juices and vegetable juices are also quite helpful.

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Diane Goettel
By Diane Goettel
"Diane Goettel has a BA from Sarah Lawrence College and an MA in English from Brooklyn College. Diane lives in Mount Vernon, New York with her husband, Noah. They are the proud parents of a Doberman Pinscher named Spoon. Specialties: book editing, book marketing, book publishing, freelance writing, magazine publishing, magazine writing, copywriting,"
Discussion Comments
By anon924128 — On Jan 02, 2014

I have tried a three to five day psyllium husk cleanse with four tablespoon doses, three times per day. Yes, these are heavy doses but my system seems to handle it well. I only use water to assist swallowing the husks. It is kind of gross, but it has no taste really.

Another long term method I use is mixing two tablespoons twice per day with protein powder as a cleanse and food supplement while dieting and working out.

Again, these are heavy doses, but my system responds positively to them.

By stoneMason — On Jan 31, 2013

@turkkay1-- Try starting out with a small dose and then slowly increasing it. All colon cleansing products will cause such side effects if you take the full dose from the beginning.

By candyquilt — On Jan 31, 2013

I tried psyllium husk for regularity but I was disappointed. It's true that it requires consuming a lot of water.

I took the psyllium husk capsules and didn't drink much water with it. I felt terribly dehydrated several hours later. The next day, I drank a lot of water with the psyllium husk but then noticed that I was urinating much more than usual. I also felt really bloated and uncomfortable.

I don't deny that psyllium husk works to cleanse the colon but I don't think the side effects are worth it.

By burcinc — On Jan 30, 2013

@anon176671-- That sounds like a delicious recipe but my understanding is that psyllium husk as a natural colon cleanser should be taken with water.

At least 8oz of water should be taken with it. I don't think there is any harm in drinking more than that. I don't know if almond milk and yogurt contain enough water.

Psyllium husk without water basically becomes useless for a colon cleanse because it works by pulling water into the intestines. This triggers movement in the bowels. If you don't drink enough water, not only will this not work, but it will definitely make you dehydrated as well. So be on the safe side, and drink a glass or two of water with or after taking the psyllium husk.

By anon176671 — On May 16, 2011

I use 2 tablespoons of Psyllium Husk Whole Flakes in a 1/2 cup of frozen yogurt, four frozen strawberries, 8oz of almond milk and a few blue berries, mixed in a blender. All instructions say to drink enough liquid. What is enough liquid (8oz, 16oz etc)?

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
"Diane Goettel has a BA from Sarah Lawrence College and an MA in English from Brooklyn College. Diane lives in Mount...
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