A Wonderful Gift of Ayurveda: Triphala

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.