Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest medical systems. The art and science of curing through herbs originated in India around 3000 years ago. Triphala is one such herbal medicine extensively used since ancient ayurvedic times. It is a polyherbal medicine which means that it contains several medicinal herbs. The ways in which Triphala benefits us are commendable.
What is Triphala Made of?
Its name in Sanskrit means ‘tri + phala’ which means three fruits. Triphala is a mixture of three medicinal fruits, namely:
- Terminalia chebula (black myrobalan)
- Terminalia bellerica (bastard myrobalan)
- Phyllanthus Emblica (emblic myrobalan or Indian gooseberry)
Interestingly, in common everyday language, they are known as Harad, Baheda, and Amla.
The polyherbal formulation is believed to create a manifold impact and thus helps in greater disease prevention and health promotion.
1. Terminalia Chebula (Black Myrobalan) or Harad
Haritaki (Harad), the fruit of the Terminalia Chebula trees, is one of the important components of Triphala. Thanks to its innumerable health benefits it is also known as the ‘King of Medicines’.
Terminalia Chebula is a tree native to India, China and Thailand. Its fruit, Haritaki, is small, oval-shaped and green in colour. Packed with a unique composition of minerals, plant compounds, and phytochemicals, it is revered for its therapeutic benefits.
2. Terminalia Bellerica (Bastard Myrobalan) or Baheda
Terminalia Bellerica is a tree native to Southeast Asia. Its fruit, commonly known as Baheda or Bibhitaki in ancient ayurvedic medicine, contains several powerful plant compounds. Furthermore, it contains high amounts of antioxidants and possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
Baheda fruit is typically drupe-like, grey-coloured and ovoid-shaped. The small-sized fruit has one stony hard seed within. The fruits of Baheda have a bitter, sour taste and are typically used in dried form.
3. Phyllanthus Emblica (Indian Gooseberry) or Amla
Indian Gooseberry, or Amla, as it is commonly known in India, is one of the oldest edible fruits. The small, medium-sized fruit has a sharp, sour taste and packs lots of fibre. Amla contains high amounts of Vitamin C. It is also rich in minerals, amino acids, and several plant compounds. Thus, it plays an important role in Ayurvedic medicine.
Triphala Health Benefits
In ayurvedic medicine, Triphala is described as a tridoshic Rasayana. This means that Triphala has the potency to correct three doshas that regulate human wellbeing – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The Triphala benefits include:
1. Combats Infections
Baheda, an important component of Triphala, is known to possess antimicrobial properties. Furthermore, Triphala thwarts the growth of infections and protects the body against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), bacterial infections like E. coli and S. aureus and fungal infections.
2. Promotes Dental Health
Triphala neutralises the levels of chemicals which raises the risk of periodontitis, a gum disease. When used as a gargling mix, Triphala helps clear infections, dental caries and plaque. Triphala mouthwash helps in removing plaque and inhibits the growth of harmful mouth bacteria.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Triphala is packed with antioxidants and plant compounds like flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins, etc. These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that curb tissue inflammation. Although inflammation is a normal immune response, chronic inflammation contributes to heart disease, certain cancers, and premature ageing.
4. Potent Antioxidant
The Triphala health benefits can be linked to its high concentration of Vitamin C and other antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds that reduce oxidative stress caused due to free radicals. As antioxidants neutralise these free radicals, they protect the body from severe health complications. A daily dose of Triphala helps restore the levels of antioxidants in the body.
5. May Help Protect Against Cancers
Triphala has the potency to kill cancerous cells. A high amount of gallic acid present in Triphala herbs helps stop the growth of cancer. The antioxidant properties of Triphala help reduce oxidative stress which is a major cause of cancer. Drug trials show that the use of Triphala was significantly effective in decreasing the proliferation of breast and prostate cancer cells.
6. Boosts Immunity
The immune system springs into action and protects the body from harmful foreign invaders. Thus, an active immune system is a key to good health. The composition of Triphala ayurvedic medicine contains the ideal mix of natural herbs that have therapeutic benefits. They work in tandem to weaken infections, eliminate body toxins, and strengthen the immune system.
7. Helps Control Diabetes
Insulin produced by the pancreas helps regulate blood sugar levels. But the onset of diabetes affects the production of insulin. The herbs present in Triphala stimulate the pancreas. This helps in promoting insulin secretion, which is effectively used to manage blood sugar levels. It also helps the body cells from becoming insulin resistant, which ensures better disease management.
8. Aids in Digestion
A strong digestive system is paramount for good health. Triphala provides a perfect blend of herbs that work together to keep the digestive system active and strong. Harad is responsible for the secretion of digestive fluids that facilitate the breakdown of food. It reduces bloating and abdominal cramps and aids in effacing abdominal gas.
Baheda plays a role in breaking down food. It ensures that the essential nutrients are absorbed properly. Whereas, Amla is a rich source of Vitamin C. It upkeeps liver functions and helps in eliminating toxic waste, reducing the risk of stomach ulcers. The herbs in Triphala are natural laxatives, cutting down the risk of constipation.
9. Regulates Blood Pressure
Blood pressure abnormalities happen due to the building up of plaque in the arteries. It increases the risk of heart attack and damages other organs as well. Daily consumption of Triphala ayurvedic medicine aids in removing plaque from the arteries. This helps maintain blood pressure. The anti-inflammatory properties of Triphala cut down inflammation and reduce the strain on blood vessels, ensuring the smooth flow of blood.
10. Relieves Arthritis and Gout Pain
Arthritis is the painful swelling of the joints. Increased inflammation further worsens the problem. Triphala herbs have anti-inflammatory properties, which cut down inflammation. The concoction also helps reduce uric acid by eliminating toxins and body waste. This provides great relief to arthritis and gout pain.
11. Stimulates Hair Growth
The Triphala trio – amla, harad, and baheda are proclaimed to settle all hair problems. They have antimicrobial properties to combat scalp infections. Their antioxidant properties help maintain optimum pH levels of the scalp. Vitamin C present in Triphala benefits the hair strands, adding lustre, strength and shine. Triphala helps maintain the hair’s natural colour, cutting down the risk of premature greying. Triphala ayurvedic medicine is also a known remedy for curing split ends.
12. Excellent Skin Care
Clogged skin pores and a pH imbalance are the primary reasons that spur skin problems. This results in acne outbreaks, wrinkles, fine lines and excessively dry or oily skin. Triphala’s high antioxidant content and anti-inflammatory properties help keep dermatologic issues at bay. The skin feels rejuvenated and fresh.
13. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are a part of our everyday life. But chronic stress and high anxiety levels harm the body in many ways. Research shows that regular consumption of Triphala powder helps moderate the levels of corticosterone, the body’s stress hormone. The calming effects of the herbs in Triphala also bring about behavioural changes by reducing bouts of anger and anxiety.
14. Powerful Anti-Ageing Properties
Triphala herbs exhibit strong anti-ageing properties. Regular intake of Triphala helps stimulate the collagen and elastin synthesising genes. Collagen and elastin are two proteins abundantly found in the skin and connecting tissues. The antioxidant content cuts down oxidative stress that fuels premature skin. Furthermore, the presence of protective phytochemicals suppresses melanin synthesis, reducing the chances of hyperpigmentation.
Risks and Precautions
Triphala contains a mix of three herbs – amla, harad and baheda. With different ingredients working together, the risk of drug interaction is high. The use of Triphala is not recommended in the following cases:
- Pregnant women
- Breastfeeding mothers
- People on blood-thinners
- People on blood pressure medication
- People with acute cough
- People suffering from diarrhoea
Conclusion
Triphala is described as a holy grail in ancient medicine. The mixture of three miraculous herbs – amla, harad and baheda, Triphala enjoys a high potency and efficacy. With high amounts of antioxidants and plant compounds, Triphala benefits almost every part of the body. The most pronounced Triphala health benefits are increased immunity, aids in digestion and weight loss, improved heart and eye health, and a vitaliser for skin and hair health.
Triphala ayurvedic medicine is widely used as an anti-stress tonic. But despite a plethora of Triphala health benefits, excessive consumption of the concoction can pose side effects too. Therefore, it is best to take Triphala in moderate quantities and after consultation with your medical health practitioner.
