Isabgol a.k.a. Psyllium Husk benefitting the Farmers

Isabgol a.k.a. Psyllium Husk is a health-friendly product. It is naturally available and the Isabgol benefits for your health is endless. 

The name Isabgol  might sound not so friendly to the ears but people have been using Isabgol for years now. You can find it in almost every household and it is known for relieving problems related to constipation.  The Psyllium Husk is not just limited to dealing with problems related to constipation, it has a plethora of other health benefits too. 

So before we go ahead with the different ways in which Isabgol can be used, you should know what exactly Isabgol is in the first place. There is a gelatinous substance that is present in Isabgol which forms a gel when soaked in water. The laxative properties of this gel help in easing bowel movement in your intestines. The gel absorbs bacteria and other harmful toxins that are present in the intestine. This provides good lubrication inside the intestine walls which help in relieving constipation related problems. 

In view of these characteristics the Isabgol Field Day was observed at the Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Anand, Gujarat.   Isabgol field day and stakeholder’s meet was held at the Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research.

 Dr. T. Janakiram, Assistant Director General (Hort. Science), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, Dr. Jitendra Kumar, Director, Institute of Pesticide Formulation Technology (IPFT), Gurugram, Dr. Niraj Wadhwa, Board Member, Isabgol Processors Association (IPA), Sidhpur and Dr. Satyajit Roy, Director, DMAPR, Anand were present in the meet. 

Dr. Janakiram, in his address emphasized need to strengthen value chain of Isabgol in order the double the income of farmers.    He opined that, organic cultivation, good agricultural practices (GAP) certification, use of censors, technology transfer, market information and value addition of Isabgol will ensure more income to the farmers. He urged to prepare a policy document for Isabgol research and development in the country. 

Dr. Satyajit Roy, Director, DMAPR presented an overview of the Directorate and research achievements in Isabgol. He highlighted new Isabgol varieties, good agricultural practices (GAP) and Isabgol seeds standards to the stakeholders. 

Mr. Niraj Wadhwa, board member, IPA, stressed that there is a growing demand for Isabgol husk in the bakery industry apart from its medicinal and industrial uses. He emphasized that, there is need for concerted efforts to increase the Isabgol production in the country. He appreciated the DMAPR in organizing the unique meet to share ideas and challenges in Isabgol processing and trade. 

Dr. Kumar, Director, IPFT, highlighted an urgent need to set up a chain of quality accreditation and certification agencies to ensure quality. He said there is need for establishment of centralized collection centers and storage yards for farmer clusters at panchayat level to ensure quality of raw drugs. 

Earlier, Dr. P. Manivel, Principal scientist, DMAPR, showcased the new varieties (Vallabh Isabgol-1, Vallabh Isabgol -2 and Vallabh Isabgol -3) and genetic resources of Isabgol to the stakeholders.  A field visit was arranged in which Isabgol varieties and germplasm accessions of the directorate were showcased to the stakeholders.