Uric Acid Lowering Effects of Psyllium Seeds on a Hyperuricemic Patient: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Background: Psyllium seeds, produced from Plantago ovata Forsk, are an herbal treatment generally used as a laxative. They also reportedly have lowering effects on some metabolic parameters such as blood glucose, lipids and uric acid. In this paper, we report the effect of this herbal medicine in reducing serum uric acid levels, without major adverse effects, in a hyperuricemic patient. Case report: A 51-year-old patient with a history of hyperuricemia (10.5 mg/dL in a recent measurement) gave consent to undergo a 40day treatment using psyllium seeds with dosage of 83.3 mg/kg. Treatment was given in two 20day courses: During the first course, the seeds were given daily and during the second course, the same dosage was given every other day. Serum uric acid levels decreased to 8.1 mg/dL and 6.8 mg/dL on the 20th and 40th days, respectively. No major adverse effects were observed, such as skin rashes, digestive disorders, muscular pain, allergic manifestations, abnormalities in liver and kidney function tests, and abnormalities in blood parameters. Conclusion: Psyllium seeds may be effective in reducing serum uric acid levels in hyperuricemia patients,  and major adverse effects are not expected to occur. These data can be used for further research and designing clinical trials.