Mucilage

This is a sweet, gel like substance which has hydroscopic properties, that is, it draws water to it, so that on the addition of water it swells up to form a viscous fluid.

Mucilage has wonderful demulcent and emollient properties, forming a protective layer over the mucous membranes, and skin, effectively soothing irritation and relieving inflammation.

Plants with a high mucilage content such as flax or psyllium seeds draw water into the bowel and thereby bulk out the stool and make effective laxative remedies which soothe the gut.