Psyllium, Apple Pectin, Licorice Root, Uva Ursi, and Milk Thistle: What the Research Says About the Ingredients in CHF #5C Fiber Plus Capsules

By Jenn Resendiz

CHF #5C Fiber Plus capsules bottle with the Country Health logo

If you like the idea of a fiber supplement but not the gritty drink, capsules are an easy alternative. CHF #5C Fiber Plus 250 Capsules (labeled “Fibran” on the formula sheet) combines proven fibers with time-honored herbs. Here is what research says about each key ingredient.

Full ingredient list (per 8 capsules, 5.1 g proprietary blend): psyllium (Plantago ovata) husk, flax seed, apple pectin, papain, licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root extract, slippery elm bark, trace mineral complex, alfalfa extract, bayberry bark extract, corn silk, fennel seed, kelp (Ascophyllum nodosum), milk thistle seed extract, Chinese rhubarb (Rheum palmatum) root extract, uva ursi leaf, dandelion root extract, clove bud, ginger root extract, Echinacea purpurea root extract, butcher’s broom extract, aloe leaf extract, and a 1 billion CFU probiotic blend (Bacillus coagulans, B. subtilis, B. clausii). Other ingredients: magnesium stearate, silica, gelatin (capsule). The label suggests 2 to 8 capsules in the evening with at least 8 ounces of water.

How does psyllium work in capsule form?

Psyllium works the same way in a capsule as in a powder. MedlinePlus explains that this bulk-forming fiber absorbs liquid in the intestines, swells, and forms a soft, bulky stool that is easier to pass, which is why a full glass of water with each dose matters. A 2022 meta-analysis of 16 randomized trials found that fiber supplements helped two-thirds of adults with chronic constipation, and psyllium was one of the most effective fibers studied.

Capsules make psyllium easy to take anywhere, and the flexible 2-to-8-capsule range lets you start low and build up gradually, just as Mayo Clinic recommends when adding fiber. Mayo Clinic notes that whole, fiber-rich foods are generally the first choice, and a fiber supplement can help fill the gap when diet changes alone don’t add enough fiber.

What does apple pectin do?

Pectin is a soluble fiber found in apples and other fruits. In the 2022 meta-analysis, pectin was one of only two fiber types, along with psyllium, that significantly improved both treatment response and stool frequency in adults with chronic constipation. Mayo Clinic notes that soluble fibers found in foods such as apples can also help lower cholesterol and support healthy blood sugar levels.

Why is licorice root in a digestive formula?

Licorice root has one of the longest histories of any herb. NCCIH notes that it was used in ancient Assyrian, Egyptian, Greek, Chinese, and Indian traditions, and today it is promoted for digestive and respiratory support. It is also widely used as a flavoring in foods and candy. In CHF #5C, licorice root extract is one of several traditional herbs chosen to complement the fibers.

What is uva ursi traditionally used for?

Uva ursi, also called bearberry, has leaves that contain a natural compound called arbutin. It has a long history of traditional use for urinary tract support. The European Medicines Agency’s herbal medicines committee recognizes bearberry leaf on the basis of this long-standing use and notes that it is meant for short-term use, no longer than one week at a time.

What do milk thistle and ginger contribute?

Milk thistle seed contains silymarin and has traditionally been used for the liver. NCCIH reports that small studies suggest milk thistle extracts may help support healthy blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, and that it appears well tolerated. Ginger has been studied extensively in people. NCCIH says research shows it may help with nausea and vomiting during pregnancy and may reduce the severity of menstrual cramps, and that it has been used safely in many studies. The formula also includes Chinese rhubarb and aloe, traditional botanical laxatives, and 1 billion CFU of Bacillus probiotics.

How do these ingredients work together?

CHF #5C combines bulk-forming fiber (psyllium, flax, and pectin) with traditional digestive herbs, plus small amounts of rhubarb and aloe to encourage the bowel’s natural rhythm. Taking the capsules in the evening with a full glass of water makes it easy to fit into a routine, and the adjustable dose lets you find the amount that works for you.

Who might enjoy it: adults with occasional constipation who prefer capsules to powder, travelers, and anyone who wants a convenient way to add fiber and traditional digestive herbs to their day.

Who should check with a clinician first?

Please check with your clinician first if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding. LactMed advises avoiding uva ursi while breastfeeding, and the formula also contains rhubarb, aloe, and licorice.
  • Have high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, or take corticosteroids. NCCIH notes that glycyrrhizin in licorice can cause serious heart-related effects in these situations.
  • Take digoxin, aspirin, or nitrofurantoin; MedlinePlus advises taking these at least 3 hours apart from psyllium.
  • Have difficulty swallowing or a bowel narrowing, or are allergic to ragweed-family plants (milk thistle).

Always drink at least 8 ounces of water with the capsules, and stop if diarrhea or abdominal pain occurs, as the label directs.

Frequently asked questions

Is CHF #5C the same formula as CHF #5P?

Both are Fiber Plus formulas. #5C comes in capsules and includes licorice root extract; the #5P powder also includes guar gum, burdock, and wormwood.

How many capsules should I take?

The label suggests 2 to 8 capsules in the evening with at least 8 ounces of water. Starting low and increasing gradually helps your body adjust.

Do fiber capsules work like fiber powder?

Yes. Psyllium works the same way in either form, absorbing water to form a soft, bulky stool.

Why is ginger included?

Ginger has been widely studied. Research suggests it may help with nausea, and it has been used safely in many studies.

Add CHF #5C Fiber Plus capsules to your cart or view the full product page and label.

Sources

  1. MedlinePlus. Psyllium
  2. van der Schoot A, et al. The effect of fiber supplementation on chronic constipation in adults: updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Clin Nutr. 2022
  3. Mayo Clinic. Dietary fiber: Essential for a healthy diet
  4. NCCIH. Licorice Root
  5. European Medicines Agency, Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products. Bearberry leaf: herbal medicine summary for the public. 2018
  6. de Arriba SG, et al. Risk assessment of free hydroquinone derived from Arctostaphylos uva-ursi herbal preparations. Int J Toxicol. 2013
  7. Uva Ursi. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), NICHD
  8. NCCIH. Milk Thistle
  9. NCCIH. Ginger
  10. Cirillo C, Capasso R. Constipation and botanical medicines: an overview. Phytother Res. 2015

Medical disclaimer

This article is for general education only. It is not medical advice, and neither this article nor the product it discusses is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or another qualified health professional before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescription or over-the-counter medicines, or have a medical condition.

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