Triphala is an ancient Ayurvedic herbal formula widely used throughout India. It is comprised of the fruit from three trees. According to the Chopra Center website, the fruits are dried and ground into a powdered form, and used for their purifying and healing properties. The formula consists of amalaki, haritaki and bibhitaki. Please note that herbs are not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is important to consult your primary health care provider before taking alternative supplements.
Amalaki
The first constituent of triphala is amalaki, Emblica officinalis, sometimes referred to as amla or Indian gooseberry. It is a deciduous tree native to Southeast Asia, specifically central and southern India, states the Purdue University website. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that it is "used in traditional medicine for various ailments including diarrhea, jaundice, headaches, inflammation, and as a tonic." It is an antioxidant and contains ascorbic acid, thiamin, riboflavin and niacin. Adverse reactions are rare. The Chopra Center claims that it can help build the immune system and cool down the body. It also contains 20 times more vitamin C than orange juice.
Haritaki
Haritaki, or myrobalan, botanically known as Terminalia chebula, is the second component in triphala. It is a tree with spreading branches and a round top. The Chopra Center claims that haritaki is a laxative with astringent qualities, and is revered in Tibet, where it is depicted in many sacred paintings with the medicine Buddha. The Ayurveda Healing Arts Institute claims that it is an adaptogen, or a substance that helps the body cope with stress, and the fruit is said to help with "hemorrhoids, ophthalmia, sore throat, dental caries, bleeding and ulcerated gums, and diseases of the spleen." The website goes on to claim that it helps relieve constipation and maintains regular bowel movements. Haritaki contains chebulagic and chebulinic acid, as well as corilagin.
Bibhitaki
Bibhitaki, or belleric myrobalan, botanically called Terminalia belerica, is the third and final ingredient in triphala. The Bliss Ayurveda website claims that this tree's unique five-angled fruit is said to have antibacterial and rejuvenating properties that may help the voice, vision and hair. It is comprised of ß-sitosterol, gallic acid, ellagic acid, ethyl gallate, galloyl glucose and chebulagic acid. According to the Chopra Center, the herb can be used to treat excess mucus in the body, and illnesses such as bronchitis and asthma.
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