Triphala is one herbal mixture that is always mentioned due to its powerful properties. The herbal concoction has been used in Ayurveda to treat different remedies for over 1,000 years. And now due to its potent health benefits, it has become increasingly popular around the world. It can be consumed in powdered or supplements to treat several ailments ranging from stomach issues to dental cavities. Besides, it is also believed to promote longevity and improve overall health.
What is Triphala
The word Triphala is made from two words- tri + phala- which means three fruits. It is named so because the herbal mixture is made of three dried fruits native to India namely-Indian gooseberry (Emblica Officinalis), black myrobalan (Terminalia chebula), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula).
Triphala is considered a polyherbal medicine, meaning it consists of several different medicinal herbs. In Ayurvedic medicines, polyherbal formulations are popular because it is believed that combining synergistic herbs results in increased therapeutic effects and benefits.
Indian Gooseberry (Amla)
Also known as amla, Indian gooseberry is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, amino acids and compounds like phenols, tannins, phyllembelic acid, rutin, curcuminoids and emblicol. This fruit can help to remove toxins from the body, regulate the health of the pancreas, manage cholesterol levels, and keep your bones strong.
Black myrobalan (Bibhitaki)
Black myrobalan, also known as bibhitaki or black myrobalan helps to regulate cholesterol levels and keeps muscle and bones healthy and strong. It is packed with nutrients like tannins, ellagic acid, gallic acid, lignans and flavonoids.
Chebulic myrobalan (Haritaki)
Haritaki is a nut-shaped fruit, which is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It is loaded with phytochemicals such as terpenes, polyphenols, anthocyanins and flavonoids. This herb is popularly used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat digestive issues like constipation.
Uses
According to the Ayurvedic tradition, Triphala can treat a wide range of health conditions. As with many multi-herbal medications, it is unknown which parts of Triphala are responsible for its potential benefits.
Many of Triphala’s possible health benefits can be attributed to its laxative effect, or ability to “cleanse the system.” At lower doses, Triphala works as a bowel tonic to alleviate gas and promote digestion. It can also be used at higher doses as a purgative, or strong laxative.
In addition to the gastrointestinal benefits, Triphala is believed to help:
- Alleviate inflammation
- Control diabetes
- Promote weight loss
- Reduce cholesterol
- Relieve stress
- Treat a variety of bacterial and fungal infections
Dosage and Preparation
Triphala is available in the following forms:
- Capsule
- Extract
- Juice
- Powder
- Tablet
- Tincture
Capsules and tablets are by far the easiest preparations to use. Most Triphala supplements are sold in doses of 500 milligrams (mg) to 1,000 mg. The dose refers to the total amount of extract used rather than the individual ingredients.
The problem is that the amounts of each ingredient can vary based on which supplier a manufacturer uses. This may not pose any significant risks, but it does show that Triphala products can differ.
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