Triphala: Ancient Formulation For A Modern You

Triphala is a simple formulation that has been used for thousands of years for restoration, rejuvenation, and balance. Traditionally prescribed as a mild laxative, there are a lot more beneficial effects hidden within this traditional preparation for the up-to-date you.

Triphala means ‘the three fruits. 'These three fruits are native to the Indian subcontinent. To understand it better, let us take a sneak peek into its three main ingredients - Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki.

Triphala - The three fruits:

Amalaki (Emblica officinalis): This fruit has a cooling effect on the Pitta Dosha and supports normal functioning of the liver and immune system. A good rejuvenator, it is full of vitamin C and helps lower cholesterol. 

Haritaki (Terminalia chebula): Well known for its scraping effect, this fruit removes toxins and helps in the maintenance of healthy weight. Although somewhat heating in nature, it is good for all three Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and is particularly calming for Vata. It has also shown marked anti-inflammatory effects.

Bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica): This fruit is particularly good for the balance of Kapha and supports the respiratory system. It is very useful for reducing mucus within the body and has rejuvenating and detoxifying effects on blood, muscles, and fatty tissues.

As evident from above, each ingredient of triphala has a specific effect on a specific dosha. This makes it a very potent formulation for balancing the Tri-Dosha. It is a very powerful Rasayana, i.e., an herbal formulation that rejuvenates the body, prevents aging, and promotes longevity.

It is particularly rejuvenating to the digestive tract. It has a mild laxative effect and is an ideal bowel cleanser due to its gentle yet deep scrapping action. This makes it quite safe for long-term use.

A glimpse into the benefits: Triphala is a simple yet the best formulation for balancing your gut flora. It helps the body to digest and absorb nutrients properly and produces well-formed bowel movements, thus helping to stabilize the gut microbiome.

Other benefits of Triphala are antioxidant Mild laxative and colon cleanser Improves the process of the digestion of food, absorption of nutrients and elimination of wastes Helps in weight loss and boosts immunity.

Alleviates constipation, is anti-inflammatory, hence alleviating pain and inflammation in arthritis, and is anti-allergic. Improves vision, strengthens hair roots, and treats dandruff. Rejuvenates skin and is an effective remedy to treat acne, eczema, and other similar skin issues.

Lowers cholesterol and regulates blood pressure Beneficial for diabetics Nourishes and heals the respiratory system, helpful in maintaining reproductive health. Triphala is available in powder, capsule, and tablet form.

If using triphala for balancing the Doshas, traditionally, the best way to take triphala is in powder form, and there is a reason behind it. The Ayurvedic system of medicine lays great stress on taste. In the context of Triphala, it contains all five tastes (sour, pungent, bitter, astringent, and sweet), excluding the salty taste.

When taken orally with warm water in powdered form, the individual experiences the taste that is low in his/her diet. However, it rarely tastes sweet. The day it tastes sweet, you do not require it anymore. Your system has been balanced.

Triphala is most often recommended in powder form with warm water. The powder (churna) is simply a mix of the above three fruits that have been dried and powdered. So, it is easy to make at home too.

If anyone has an aversion to its taste or difficulty swallowing it, capsules and tablets can be taken. If powder is not available, capsules can be opened and used as powder. Time of administration A change in the time of administration changes its effect within the body.

If you are taking it for better digestion, absorption, and elimination, the best time is to take it at night. It will have a gentle laxative and AMA (toxin)-cleansing effect in the morning. A simple and effective way to cure constipation.

If you are taking it for your respiratory issues, even then the best time is to take it at night, as it will prevent the mucus buildup during the night. It works best as a Rasayana when taken during the day, especially the first thing in the morning after waking up.

This time also suits anyone looking to loose weight and stabilize blood sugar levels.

Contraindications of Triphala: Not many side effects have been reported. It is non-habit-forming. It is advisable not to take triphala if you have loose watery stools or diarrhea. Triphala is also to be avoided if pregnant. However, some people may notice a drying effect, so it is recommended to drink enough water when using it regularly.

 Ayurveda also recommends avoiding the use of this formulation and intake of haritaki only if your stools are too dry and hard.

Simple recipes using Triphala:

Triphala tea or infusion recipe ingredients:
Triphala Powder: ¼ – ½ teaspoon 
Freshly Boiled water: 1 cup
Honey: 1 tsp (optional, to enhance taste)

Method: Add Triphala powder to a cup of freshly boiled water. Stir well and let it rest for 2-5 minutes. Sit relaxed and drink lukewarm tea. Honey can be added to make it more palatable if you do not like the taste.

Benefit: An Ayurvedic medicine to relieve constipation and enhance digestion. Also, be mindful of taking dietary measures for constipation, like increasing fiber and water intake.

Triphala Hair Oil Ingredients:
Coconut oil: 200gm
Triphala powder: 100gm

Method: Heat oil to full in a pan. Switch off the stove, let the oil cool for 2-3 minutes, and then add triphala powder. Mix and transfer to a glass jar. No need to strain. Make sure that the stove is switched off and the oil is not too hot. This will prevent the powder from burning.

Use & Benefit: This oil can be used to massage the scalp gently 2 times a week. Keep the oil on the scalp for 1-2 hours before washing the hair with mild shampoo. This helps to promote hair growth, makes hair strong and healthy, prevents premature greying, and is beneficial in dandruff treatment.

Although traditionally prescribed as a mild laxative, Triphala has a lot more beneficial effects. There is a saying in India that if a Vaidya (Ayurveda physician) knows how to use Triphala properly, he can cure any disease.

Being a Rasayana, it increases ojas (vigor and vitality), prevents disease, adds luster and vitality to hair, skin, and nails, and revitalizes the entire body. Tags: Herb, Triphala