Triphala, a botanical remedy consisting of three native Indian fruits, is traditionally taken by healthy people and those with health problems. It is the most prescribed Ayurvedic herbal preparation, according to Michael Tierra, a licensed acupuncturist and doctor of Oriental medicine. He writes that triphala is invaluable for regulating digestion and elimination. Research suggests that it also may prevent and treat cancer. Ask your physician if triphala may be appropriate for you.
Triphala
The Sanskrit word "triphala" translates as "three fruits." Triphala contains fruits native to India, namely amla, haritaki and bibitaki. Amla, or Emblica officinalis, contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants. It attacks viruses and bacteria, helps to rid your body of mucus and tones your heart. Haritaki, or Terminalia chebula, works as a laxative and antispasmodic, notes Tierra. Finally, bibitaki, or Terminalia belerica, is useful for bronchial congestion and coughs. Tierra recommends that you consume triphala at least once or twice weekly to prevent illness. Always seek advice from a qualified health professional before using a plant medicinally.
Digestion and Elimination
According to Tierra, triphala can increase your ability to digest food. It accomplishes this by increasing the production of bile, which is a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Triphala is also an excellent laxative and is often prescribed if you have problems with elimination.
Cancer Prevention
Chemoprevention is a method of attempting to use natural or synthetic substances to prevent cancerous cells from developing in your body. Medical studies demonstrate that triphala is an effective chemopreventative agent, according to a 2010 review article in the "The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine." authored by biochemist Manjeshwar Shrinath Baliga, Ph.D. Baliga cites a study in which mice treated with carcinogens were fed a diet containing 2.5 percent triphala. The triphala-treated mice exhibited over 75 percent fewer tumors than the control group. Researchers noticed that when mice were given components of the three fruits comprising triphala individually, the chemopreventive effect was reduced. The use of triphala is not an adequate substitute for medical advice and treatment.
Inflammation and Cell Damage
Inflammation is a medically acknowledged risk factor in cancer and other serious diseases, according to Baliga. He writes that triphala has pronounced anti-inflammatory effects. In one research trial on laboratory animals, for instance, triphala prevented inflammation more effectively than an anti-inflammatory medication called indomethacin. Triphala also acts to prevent cell damage, another widespread source of diseases such as cancer. Scientists tested an acetone extract of triphala in the laboratory and concluded that the triphala extract inhibited cell mutation. It is important to fully inform your doctor about any herbal supplements that you are taking.
References
- East West School of Planetary Herbology; The Wonders of Triphala: Ayurvedic Formula for Internal Purification; Michael Tierra, L.Ac., O.M.D.
- "The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine"; Triphala, Ayurvedic Formulation for Treating and Preventing Cancer: A Review; Manjeshwar Shrinath Baliga; December 2010
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