Literally meaning 3 fruits – tri = three and phala = fruit – Triphala is one of the most powerful Ayurvedic herbs, regular usage of which, according to Ayurveda, gives you a long healthy life and keeps you rejuvenated.
This powerful herbal formula has been used traditionally in Ayurveda for prevention and treatment of various diseases which has now been studied and backed by numerous scientific research.
Charak, the “father of Ayurveda” noted in Charak Samhita that daily intake of Triphala Rasayana (prepared with mixing honey and clarified butter) has the ability to make a person live for a hundred years with youthful energy and without any diseases.
Yet another ancient Indian surgeon Shushruta, who pioneered operations and surgery indicated that Triphala is quite potent Ayurvedic remedy for treating ulcers and wounds.
Triphala’s “Dravya Guna” (study of herbal attributes in Ayurveda)
| Rasa (taste) | Sour, sweet, astringent, bitter and pungent |
| Virya (potency) | Neutral |
| Vipaka (post digestive effect) | Sweet |
| Prabhav (trophism) | Tridoshic, for all doshas (mind body types) |
| Gunas (qualities) | Amalaki: high and dry; bibhitaki & harataki: light and dry |
What is Triphala
Triphala collectively refers to 3 fruits – haritaki (Terminalia chebula), bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica) and amalaki (Embelica officinalis).
Harataki (Terminalia chebula)
Harataki is a revered Ayurvedic Medicine revered for its medicinal properties to cure and prevent various ailments. Considered one of the foremost Ayurvedic herbs, Harataki can be used both externally and internally.
When used externally, this fruit has been found quite effective in treating wounds, fungal infections, and mucus membrane of the mouth.
Internal dosage of Harataki include astringent, laxative and purgative and anti-inflammatory properties.
Internal usage of this traditional herbal medicine has been found quite useful in cure and prevention of diseases like asthma, piles and cough.
Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)
This potent herbal remedy is yet another important Ayurvedic herb used traditionally for prevention and cure of several diseases.
Several scientific studies have shown that Bibhitaki effects include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective (liver functions) and anticancer activities among others.
Aforementioned medicinal properties of this ayurvedic herb can be attributed to the presence of several compounds and phytochemicals such as gallic acid, ellagic acid, tannins, glucoside, and arjunolics acid among others.
Amalaki or Amla (Embelica officinalis)
Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry is one of the oldest known fruits in India has been used and prescribed in Ayurveda for thousands of years. It is also referred to as “the wonder herb” due to its potential and manifold medicinal properties. Amla has been found to be a powerhouse of rich nutrients, natural antioxidants, and vitamin C.
Several studies have been undertaken to study the therapeutic properties of Amla and as a source of natural bioactive compounds. Researches have suggested the potential health benefits of Indian gooseberry in improving health and nutrition.
Health Benefits of Triphala: The Ayurvedic Wonder Herb
A staple herbal medicine in Ayurveda, Triphala is prepared by collecting and drying these three fruits in the appropriate season. While preparing the powder, the seeds are removed and the fruits are mixed by equal weight.
When preparing the decoction (medicinal preparation by boiling and heating), seeds are not removed from either of these three fruits.
In Ayurveda, Triphala is classified as Tridoshic rasayana. Tridosha here refers to the three doshas, Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Triphala is considered appropriate for people of any doshas for balance of life forces or mind-body types and stimulates strength and immunity of very young as well as elderly people.
Due to its medicinal properties and health benefits which are now backed by numerous scientific studies and medical research[1], Triphala has become increasingly popular not just in India but all around the world for holistic health and well-being.
Benefits of Triphala as a Natural Laxative
Triphala is a well-liked option for encouraging regular bowel movements and treating constipation because of its well-known natural laxative effects. Using Triphala as a natural laxative works like this:
Improved Digestive Function: By encouraging the generation of digestive enzymes, boosting food breakdown, and aiding nutrient absorption, triphala helps healthy digestion. This enhanced digestive process aids in controlling bowel motions.
Bowel Control: Fiber in triphala gives the stool bulk and aids in gastrointestinal transit. The three fruits that make up Triphala act in concert to encourage mild and effective bowel management.
Colon Cleansing: Triphala functions as a mild colon cleanser, aiding in the removal of toxins, waste, and undigested matter from the colon. This cleansing effect aids in relieving constipation and promoting regularity.
Intestinal Motility: The rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the intestines that are required for the appropriate passage of food through the digestive tract is known as intestinal motility, and triphala aids healthy intestinal motility. Triphala improves regular bowel motions and prevents sluggish stool by increasing intestinal motility.
Gastrointestinal Health Benefits of Triphala
Triphala plays a significant role in supporting gastrointestinal health and maintaining overall digestive wellness. Here are some key benefits of Triphala in gastrointestinal health:
Digestive Aid: Triphala encourages the development of digestive enzymes, which improves nutrition absorption and digestion. This promotes effective food digestion and lessens gastrointestinal discomfort.
Relief from Constipation: Triphala works as a mild and powerful natural laxative to encourage regular bowel movements and to treat constipation. It enhances intestinal motility, softens the feces, gives it volume, and softens the stool, making it simpler to pass waste.
Cleansing and detoxification: Triphala aids detoxification by gently cleaning the digestive system. It supports a healthy digestive environment by removing waste products, toxins, and undigested food from the colon.
Gut Microbiome Balance: Triphala has prebiotic properties that nourish beneficial gut bacteria. It supports the growth of healthy gut flora, helping to maintain a balanced gut microbiome, which is crucial for optimal digestive function and overall well-being.
Acid Reflux and Heartburn Relief: Triphala may aid in the relief of acid reflux and heartburn symptoms by fostering a healthy digestive system, lowering acidity, and calming the gastrointestinal lining.
Healthy Colon Function: Triphala encourages regular bowel movements, keeps the ideal consistency of the stool, and lowers the risk of colon-related problems.
Gut Health Maintenance: Regular use of Triphala can help maintain a healthy gut environment, support nutrient absorption, and enhance overall gastrointestinal health.
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Potential Health Benefits of Triphala in Stress Management
Triphala exhibits stress-reducing potential, offering support for mental and emotional well-being. Here’s how Triphala can help in stress reduction:
Adaptogenic Properties: Triphala is categorized as an adaptogen, which means it aids the body in better coping with stress and adjusting to it. It helps the body’s stress response mechanism and aids in maintaining equilibrium when under stress, whether it be physical or emotional.
Cortisol Regulation: Triphala may aid in the regulation of cortisol levels, a hormone that is released under stressful situations. Triphala contributes to the promotion of a more balanced stress response by regulating cortisol production.
Mood Enhancement: Triphala has been linked to mood-enhancing properties. It might improve mood, lessen tension and anxiety, and encourage calmness and relaxation.
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Potential Health Benefits of Triphala in Diabetes Management
Triphala has shown promise in controlling diabetes and promoting normal blood sugar levels. Triphala has the following antidiabetic effects:
Insulin Secretion: Triphala has been discovered to encourage pancreatic beta cells to secrete insulin. An increase in insulin production can help to successfully control blood sugar levels and encourage cell uptake of glucose.
Lipid Profile Improvement: Triphala has been shown to enhance lipid profiles by reducing levels of triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and total cholesterol. Controlling cholesterol levels is crucial for diabetics since it reduces the risk of cardiovascular issues.
Pancreatic Health: Triphala promotes pancreatic health, which is essential for adequate insulin production and blood sugar control. Triphala may contribute to the pancreas’ continued healthy performance by nourishing it.
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Benefits of Triphala for Beauty & Skincare
Triphala offers several benefits for skin and beauty. Here are some of the key advantages:
Natural Cleanser: Triphala can be used as a mild, all-natural skin cleanser that removes excess oil, grime, and other impurities from the skin without drying it out.
Anti-Aging Properties: Triphala has anti-aging properties because it has antioxidant activity that combats free radicals, which cause premature aging. Triphala may help maintain a more youthful-looking complexion by assisting in the reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots with regular use.
Skin Brightening: Triphala might aid to brighten the complexion and even out skin tone. It might aid in lightening blemishes, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots, giving the skin a more even and radiant tone.
Acne Management: Triphala is useful for treating acne-prone skin because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. It can lessen inflammation, fight acne-causing bacteria, and help regulate excessive oil production, all of which contribute to a brighter complexion.
Skin Detoxification: Triphala assists in the detoxification of the skin by eliminating pollutants and toxins. This detoxifying procedure can improve skin health, lessen acne, and encourage a healthy shine.
Skin Hydration: Triphala assists in preserving the best possible level of skin hydration by holding moisture and halting moisture loss. This can help prevent flakiness and dryness while promoting a moisturized and plump appearance.
Dark Circle Reduction: Reduced appearance of dark circles and puffiness around the eyes thanks to the natural astringent effects of triphala, giving the face a more rested and young appearance.
Health of the Scalp and Hair: Triphala can help with the health of the scalp, eliminating dandruff, encouraging hair growth, and enhancing the texture of the hair. It strengthens hair follicles and nourishes the scalp, resulting in healthier, more glossy hair.
Triphala can be used topically as a face mask, used to DIY skincare products, or taken internally for overall health advantages that show up on the skin when used for skin and beauty purposes. If you have certain skin issues or sensitivities, it’s advised to conduct a patch test and speak with a dermatologist as with any skincare plan.
Also Read: An Introduction to Ayurveda
Other Potential Health Benefits of Triphala
The Potential of Triphala in Oral Care: Due to its antibacterial qualities, which can help maintain oral hygiene, prevent plaque from forming, and improve breath, triphala has historically been utilized in oral care.
Benefits of Triphala in Obesity: Triphala may help with weight control by promoting a healthy digestive system, enhancing metabolism, and assisting in the removal of toxins, all of which can aid in trying to lose weight.
Triphala Has Radioprotective Effects: Triphala has radioprotective effects and may help prevent radiation-induced damage by reducing oxidative stress, enhancing antioxidant defenses, and promoting tissue regeneration.
Benefits of Triphala for Eyes: Triphala’s potent antioxidant action may help prevent oxidative stress and age-related damage to the eyes, promote eye health, and maybe reduce the risk of conditions including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Anti-cancer Benefits of Triphala: Triphala’s anti-cancer characteristics have been studied, and they have the potential to be used as antineoplastic agents to stop the growth of cancer cells, cause apoptosis (cell death), and treat a variety of cancers.
Effects of Triphala on Inflammation: Triphala has anti-inflammatory qualities that can help reduce inflammation in the body. Numerous inflammatory illnesses, including arthritis, gastrointestinal issues, and skin ailments, can benefit from this.
Antioxidative Property: Triphala’s antioxidant and rejuvenating characteristics are only a couple of the ways they might offer anti-aging benefits. It might reduce oxidative stress, improve cellular health, and raise general vitality, all of which would slow down aging.
Precautions & Side Effects
While Triphala is promising in several areas, more research is necessary to completely understand its mechanisms and effectiveness.
It’s crucial to remember that different people may react differently to Triphala.
It is advised to start with a modest dose, abide by the stated dosage guidelines, and stop using the medication if any negative side effects manifest.
It is always advisable to speak with a healthcare provider before using Triphala or any other herbal product if you have any underlying medical ailments or concerns.
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