Psyllium, also known as Isabgol or Isphagula, is primarily grown in India. It was popularised by Arabians and Persians in India as early as the 10th century A.D., known then as Fleawort or Flea Seed Husk. Its use as a mild bulk laxative spread to the United States and Europe in the mid-19th century, gaining significant popularity. Despite the development of many newer synthetic compounds, Psyllium has maintained an important place in therapeutics.