Triphala is a combination of the native Indian plants Terminalia chebula, Terminalia belerica and Emblica officinalis, and is used as a traditional herbal medicine to support the immune system and fight infection. Triphala has been used by Ayurvedic doctors and practitioners in India for strengthening immune response in humans for thousands of years, and modern medical research has supported these folk uses. Always consult with your health-care provider before combining herbal medicines with prescription medications.
Immune Stimulation
According to a study published in "Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin" in 2005, triphala is an immunomodulatory herb able to increase the function of immune cells and protect the immune system from stress. Triphala works as a stimulant and harmonizer of the immune system when taken internally, helping to prevent infectious diseases and fight pathogens. Take triphala throughout the year and during acute infections to boost your immunity. There is no research on the effect of triphala on autoimmune conditions, so consult you health-care provider before using triphala.
Cancer Prevention
Triphala helps prevent cancer by stimulating the immune system and inhibiting the harmful mutation of cells in the body. In a study published in "Teratogenesis, Carcinogenesis, and Mutagenesis" in 2003, extracts of triphala prevented the mutation of cells and protected against cancer. Triphala is a rich source of antioxidant chemicals called polyphenols, which act as anti-carcinogens in the body. When taken internally on a regular basis, triphala helps protect against cancerous changes and fight free-radical damage that causes mutations to occur.
Antimicrobial
Triphala extract has antimicrobial properties that make it capable of inhibiting and killing bacteria that cause infection and dental disease, according to the Tagore Dental College in India. In a study published in "The Journal of Endodontics" in 2010, researchers from the college found that chemicals in triphala extracts had statistically significant antimicrobial properties -- comparable to that of green tea polyphenols. Triphala is a useful herbal medicine during acute infections due to its combination of immune-stimulating and antimicrobial properties.
Wound Healing
During a study published in "The Journal of Surgical Research" in 2007, researchers found triphala ointment improved the tissue healing of infected wounds. Triphala ointment was effective as an antimicrobial against a wide range of pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pyogenes. In addition, triphala ointment stimulated better wound closure and an improved rate of healing. Treating infected wounds with triphala improves the symptoms and time spent healing significantly, making triphala a useful complementary treatment for external application.
References
- "Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin"; Immunomodulatory Activity of Triphala on Neutrophil Functions; Srikumar R., et al.; 2005
- "Teratogenesis, Carcinogenesis, and Mutagenesis"; Indian Medicinal Plants as a Reservoir of Protective Phytochemicals; Arora S., Kaur K., Kaur S.; 2003
- "Journal of Endodontics"; Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Herbal Alternatives (Triphala and Green Tea Polyphenols), MTAD, and 5 Percent Sodium Hypochlorite Against Enterococcus Faecalis Biofilm Formed on Tooth Substrate: An In Vitro Study; Prabhakar J., et al.; 2010
- "Journal of Surgical Research"; Triphala Promotes Healing of Infected Full-thickness Dermal Wound; Kumar M.S., Kirubanandan S., Sripriya R., Sehgal P.K.; 2008
