Uses of Triphala

Commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, triphala, an herbal blend of dried fruit from three trees that grow in India, shows promise in the treatment of some medical disorders. Triphala is available in health food stores in powder form, or as capsules or tablets. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not oversee the production of this herbal remedy, so there is no guarantee of purity, effectiveness or safety. Consult a doctor of naturopathy before taking triphala.

General Tonic

Deepak Chopra, M.D., author and holistic health practitioner, recommends the use of triphala to boost the immune system and to rid the body of accumulated toxins. Chopra reports that triphala is an ancient Ayurvedic formula, thousands of years old, but still popular today.

Laxative

Taken as a gentle laxative, two of triphala’s ingredients, haritaki and bibhitaki, both have purgative powers. Amalaki, the third ingredient, acts to cool and soothe, according to Chopra. Do not use triphala if you suffer from chronic diarrhea.

Eye Conditions

Eyewash prepared from triphala, may be beneficial in the treatment of cataracts, conjunctivitis and glaucoma, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." Clinical studies confirming these benefits are lacking.

Pancreatic Cancer

A 2008, Texas Tech study, entitled “Triphala inhibits both in vitro and in vivo xenograft growth of pancreatic tumor cells by inducing apoptosis,” concluded that the herbal remedy has anticancer potential. Scientists induced pancreatic tumors in mice, and then gave them triphala. Mice who received the herbal remedy experienced reduced tumor size. Human studies are necessary to confirm similar benefits to people.

Other Uses

"The Gale Encyclopedia" mentions other medical conditions sometimes treated with triphala. These include the topical application of a triphala skin wash for sunburn and bruises, and an oral treatment for gout and hepatitis. Pregnant women, nursing mothers and children should not take triphala unless directed to do so by their physicians.