A Wonderful Gift of Ayurveda: Triphala
- Triphala
- 22 Aug 2023
Overview
What is Triphala?
Triphala is an old herbal preparation based on Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional Indian medicinal practice. Amla (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), three potent fruits, are collectively referred to as triphala, which translates to “three fruits” in Sanskrit1Overview| Researched based study from Sciencedirect.com Since ancient times, Triphala has been used extensively to improve general health and treat several medical ailments. Other names like Triphala churna, Triphala choornam, or Phala trika also refer to it.
This page delves into Triphala’s mode of action, health benefits, dosage, administration, side effects, precautions, and interactions.
How does it work?
- Ayurvedic medicine uses a term known as Tridoshic rasayana, which points to the three elements or doshas that make up the body – vata, pitta, and kapha.
- All three of the body’s energies, or doshas, are said to be balanced by it2Overview| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- Triphala, which combines the three herbs Amla, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki, is thought to be more potent than taking them alone.
Ingredients
Triphala Ingredients and their significance
- Amla (Indian Gooseberry) – boosts the immune system, aids with digestion, and encourages good skin and hair as it contains antioxidants and vitamin C3Ingredients| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- Bibhitaki – is an herb with astringent characteristics that might help regulate digestion and ease respiratory problems4Ingredients| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- Haritaki – is well-known for its laxative effects, promoting regular bowel movements and cleaning the digestive system5Ingredients| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Health Benefits
Triphala Health Benefits
Triphala, when consumed, is believed to be beneficial to health in the following ways:
- Improves digestive health
- Has antioxidant properties
- Detoxifies the body
- Supports immunity
- Improves eye health
- Prevents tooth decay
Improves digestive health
- Triphala is well known for its capacity to enhance digestion and treat gastrointestinal problems like bloating, acidity, constipation, abdominal discomfort, and indigestion2Health Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- It promotes overall gut health by increasing digestive enzyme secretion and regulating bowel motions.
Has antioxidant properties
- Triphala’s high antioxidant concentration aids in neutralizing free radicals, lowering oxidative stress, and guarding against cell damage6Health Benefits| Researched based study from Researchgate.net
- This can encourage healthy aging and help prevent chronic diseases.
Detoxifies the body
- Triphala helps the body eliminate waste materials and toxins as a mild detoxifying agent.
- Its purifying qualities benefit the blood, kidneys, and liver, supporting general detoxification7Health Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Supports immunity
- Triphala’s significant immunomodulatory properties strengthen the body’s defense mechanisms, improving its capacity to combat infections and diseases8Health Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Prevents tooth decay
- When compared to currently existing commercially available products, Triphala is far more affordable and has no adverse effects on the oral tissues when it comes to preventing diseases that affect the hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity9Health Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Improves eye health
- Due to the high levels of vitamin C and antioxidant activity in Triphala, it is thought to support good vision. It may aid in the prevention of age-related eye disorders like cataracts. 2Health Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Dosage
Dosage and Administration
Triphala comes in the following forms :
- Powder
- Capsules
- Liquid extracts
Administration
- Supplements containing Triphala do not have a recommended dosage. Depending on the user’s age, state of health, and type of Triphala being used, the recommended dosage may fluctuate.
- Warm water, honey, or ghee are typically added to the powder before consumption10Dosage| Researched based study from Ijhsr.org
- The proper dosage must be determined in consultation with a trained Ayurvedic practitioner or medical professional.
Side effects
Triphala side effects
Triphala is generally regarded as safe for most people when used as directed. However, on occasion, particularly when taken in high amounts, some individuals may develop mild adverse effects, such as:
- Diarrhea 11Side effects| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- Abdominal cramp
- Bloating
- Flatulence
Precautions
Risks and precautions
- Allergy – Allergy testing is necessary before using any herbal medication. It is crucial, to begin with a lesser dose and raise it gradually to determine individual tolerance.
- Pregnant or nursing women – Women who are expecting or nursing should consult a doctor before using Triphala to ensure their safety.
- Bleeding – Gooseberry, one of its components, can prevent clotting and has an antiplatelet effect, but if consumed in large doses, it can also easily bleed or bruise. It is not recommended to people with bleeding disorders12Precautions| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- Heavy metal poisoning – Some Ayurvedic supplements may have harmful quantities of lead, mercury, or arsenic, according to the NCCI (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)13Precautions| Researched based study from Nccih.nih.gov Patients should consult their doctors before using it as FDA (Food and Drug Administration) does not regulate Triphala.
- Pre-existing medical conditions – To prevent difficulties, people with pre-existing medical issues should consult a doctor before taking Triphala.
Interactions
Interactions
Triphala may interfere with the absorption or effectiveness of some prescription drugs or herbal supplements as follows:
- Blood thinners – Warfarin, heparin, and aspirins are blood thinners and anticoagulants that could interact with the Triphala supplement and result in bleeding12Interactions| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- CYP450 substrates – Triphala suppresses CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, which may impact the amount of medicines that are processed by these enzymes intracellularly14Interactions| Researched based study from Mskcc.org
- Laxative effect – Since Triphala’s laxative effects may hamper some medications’ absorption, taking other medicines at least two hours before or after taking Triphala is imperative.
It is crucial to tell your doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner before beginning Triphala if you are using any prescription drugs or other herbal therapies.
Bottom Line
The Bottom Line
Triphala is known for its all-encompassing holistic approach to well-being, which includes encouraging digestive health, bodily detoxification, and immune system support. Even though Triphala usually is secure when appropriately utilized, it is essential to get advice from a licensed healthcare expert before adding it to your wellness regimen. Triphala might be a valuable supplement to your journey toward a happier, more balanced life with the proper administration and safety measures. Always remember that every person will react differently, and getting professional assistance from a healthcare provider is necessary for tailored guidance and the best results.
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References
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Science Direct
Network Pharmacology | Overview
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National Library of Medicine
Therapeutic Uses of Triphala in Ayurvedic Medicine | Overview
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National Library of Medicine
Clinical evaluation of Emblica Officinalis Gatertn (Amla) in healthy human subjects: Health benefits and safety results from a randomized, double-blind, crossover placebo-controlled study | Ingredients
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National Library of Medicine
The development of Terminalia chebula Retz. (Combretaceae) in clinical research | Ingredients
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National Library of Medicine
Haritaki (Chebulic myrobalan) and its varieties | Ingredients
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Research Gate
Antioxidant Effect of Triphala - Critical Review | Health Benefits
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National Library of Medicine
Hepatoprotective Effects of Different Extracts From Triphala Against CCl4-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice | Health benefits
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National Library of Medicine
Immunomodulatory Effects of Triphala and its Individual Constituents: A Review | Health benefits
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National Library of Medicine
Role of Triphala in dentistry | Health benefits
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International Journal of Health Sciences and Research
Triphala: A Wonder Drug of Ayurveda | Dosage
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National Library of Medicine
Effects of Triphala on Lipid and Glucose Profiles and Anthropometric Parameters: A Systematic Review | Side effects
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National Library of Medicine
A systematic review on the cardiovascular pharmacology of Emblica officinalis Gaertn. | Precautions
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National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
Ayurvedic Medicine: In Depth | Precautions
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Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Triphala | Interactions