When it comes to ayurvedic herbs and medicines, Triphala is a common name. You might have either heard from your grandparents, or parents or seen Ayurvedic doctors or companies highlighting the various benefits of Triphal. Ever wondered what is Triphala? Whether it is a single herb or a combination of many. Well, let’s put an end to your curiosity.
What is Triphala? Is it an Ayurvedic Herb or an Ayurvedic Mixture?
The word ‘Triphala’ is a combination of 2 Sanskrit words – tri (three) + phala (fruits). In English, it simply means three fruits. So, triphala in Ayurveda is a herbal remedy (or polyherbal medicine) and a mixture of three dried fruits. They are – Amla (Emblica Officinalis), also called Indian gooseberry, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki.
Why The Combination? Well, because the combining effect of these three compounds working together is said to be more effective than taking them separately.
Yes, Polyherbal formulations like these are widely used in Ayurveda, to prevent diseases and promote good health and wellbeing.
Let’s Know about the Individual Fruits that Make Powerful Ayurvedic Mixture, Triphala
Amla (Emblica officinalis)
Also known as Indian Gooseberry, is one of the oldest edible fruits known to India. Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, amino acids, and compounds like tannins and phenols, Amla is not only known to remove toxins from the body but is an asset when it comes to regulating the health of the pancreas and keeping your bones strong.
Also Read: 7 Health Benefits of Amla You Should Know
Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)
Bibhitaki is a large tree commonly grown in Southeast Asia. Anti-bacterial in nature, it fights against various infections. Bibhitaki is known to regulate blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity in the body. What’s more, Bibhitaki has compounds like gallic acid and ellagic acid, two phytochemicals that aid in digestion and soothe the stomach.
Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
Terminalia chebula is known as Haritaki in Sanskrit and commonly grows in China, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. It is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties and loaded with phytochemicals such as polyphenols, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. This herb is used mainly in Ayurvedic medicine to treat digestive issues like constipation.
Here are Some Benefits of Triphala, The Tridoshic Rasayana
Ayurvedic Mixture of Amla, Bibhitaki, Haritaki o.r. Triphala is a Great Detoxifier
Heard about Triphala churna in Bollywood movies as a solution for digestive issues? Well, because, Triphal aids natural internal cleansing that detoxifies the gut. This, in turn, prevents constipation, improves bowel movement, and helps in digestion.
Why Triphal? Well, because It Boosts your Immunity power
The combination of three fruits makes Triphal a powerful herbal medicine to protect the body as well as fight against almost any infection. Of course, the three ingredients full of nutrients nourish the body, which helps in boosting immunity.
What is Triphala? Your Ayurvedic Medicine to Cure Skin Problem
Triphala is anti-inflammatory in nature and is a rich source of antioxidants. The antioxidants in Triphala fight various skin infections and help in reducing acne that is caused by bacteria. Thus, giving you soft and smooth skin.
Did you know you can Lose Weight by eating Triphala?
Proper elimination of waste and digestion are two of the important factors that contribute to maintaining your weight. Triphal does this work perfectly!
Triphala is Good for your Eyes
We all know that today’s generation is using smartphones and watching tv for a long period of a day which will affect our eyes. So, Triphala maintains your eyes’ health and keeps your vision sharp. It also protects you from several eye ailments like glaucoma, and cataracts.
Triphala has side effects too-
Triphal is a laxative and can cause gas, diarrhea, cramps, stomach upset, and many other gastrointestinal effects. Haritaki in Triphal can cause abortions in pregnant women. So, pregnant ladies must not have Triphala. In fact, it is always best to seek advice from your doctor wrt Ayurvedic medicines especially when you are pregnant.
Well, that’s about What is Triphala – For Detailed Benefits of Triphala, check here.
Also, check out the health benefits of various Ayurvedic herbs in our exclusive section – Healthy Herbs.
