Triphala Review

Triphala is an East Indian herbal blend, commonly used in Ayurvedic healing. A combination of three fruits found in India, triphala offers some potential health benefits, but the FDA does not approve of triphala as a medicine. Instead, the herbal remedy sells as a dietary supplement in the United States. Triphala is available online and in health food stores. Consult a doctor of naturopathy before using this herbal blend to treat any medical condition.

History

Triphala is prepared by combining the dried fruits of three plants, amalaki, haritaki and bibhitaki, all native to India. The recipe for making triphala is thousands of years old, according to Deepak Chopra, M.D., health guru, author, and founder of the Chopra Center for Wellbeing.

Herbs

Amalaki contains 20 times as much vitamin C as orange juice and adds immune strengthening properties to triphala, according to Chopra. Haritaki has laxative and astringent properties, and bibhitaki flushes away mucus and rejuvenates the body, reports Chopra. There is no scientific evidence confirming these benefits.

Potential Benefits

Triphala is a popular detoxification and cleansing remedy, used to treat constipation and gassiness, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." It may strengthen the liver and kidneys and reduce gout symptoms. In addition, triphala may benefit some eye conditions, including glaucoma, cataracts and conjunctivitis. Clinical studies confirming these health benefits are lacking.

Research

Clinical studies of triphala are limited. However, a 2008 study at Texas Tech University concluded that triphala has potential anticancer properties in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Mice with induced pancreatic tumors experienced reduced tumor size when treated with triphala. Studies on humans are necessary to confirm triphala’s benefits in the treatment of human pancreatic cancer.

Dosage

Available in powder form or as capsules and tablets, the Gale Encyclopedia recommends the adult dose of triphala as up to 1 tsp. of powder per day, or the equivalent of four tablets or capsules. Do not give children this herbal blend unless directed to do so by a physician. Although triphala is reportedly not addictive, Gale encourages patients to stop using the remedy for at least two weeks after 10 consecutive weeks of use.

Considerations

Pregnant women and nursing mothers should not take triphala. Do not use this herbal blend if you suffer from chronic diarrhea or dysentery. Side effects are uncommon, but the Gale Encyclopedia reports that some people may experience loose stools or intestinal gas, especially at higher dosages. Consult a doctor of naturopathy before using triphala.