What Are the Benefits of Triphala?

Triphala has been used in traditional Ayurvedic practice since ancient times as a multi-purpose treatment for symptoms ranging from stomach ailments to dental cavities. It is also believed to promote longevity and overall health.

It’s considered a polyherbal practice, meaning it consists of several different medicinal herbs.

Polyherbal formulations are popularly used in Ayurvedic practice, a traditional system that emphasizes disease prevention and health promotion.

Triphala is a mixture of the dried fruits of the following three plants native to India.

• Amla (Emblica officinalis): This is commonly known as Indian gooseberry. The berries have a sour, sharp taste and a fibrous texture. They also contain powerful plant compounds like phenols, tannins, phyllembelic acid, rutin, curcuminoids, and emblicol. Indian gooseberries are also very nutritious and high in vitamin C, amino acids, and minerals.
• Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica): This is a large tree that commonly grows in Southeast Asia. In one studyTrusted Source, 500 mg of Terminalia bellirica substantially reduced uric acid levels in patients with gout, an inflammatory condition characterized by the buildup of uric acid in the body. Bibhitaki is high in gallic acid and ellagic acid, two phytochemicals that have beneficial effectsTrusted Source on blood sugar levels, insulin sensitivity, and body weight.
• Haritaki (Terminalia chebula): This is a medicinal tree that grows throughout the Middle East, India, China, and Thailand. Haritaki contains phytochemicals such as terpenes, polyphenols, anthocyanins, and flavonoids.

Triphala is promoted as a treatment for a number of common ailments and a way to prevent chronic disease. Some possible health benefits include:

• Anti-Inflammatory properties: Triphala contains a number of antioxidants that perform protective functions in the body. It contains vitamin C, flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins, and saponins, along with other potent plant compounds. Diets high in antioxidants could reduceTrusted Source the risk of heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, and premature aging.
• May protect against certain cancers: Triphala may have anticancer properties. Researchers have suggested that triphala’s high levels of powerful antioxidants like gallic acid and polyphenols may be responsible for its cancer-fighting properties. Though these results are promising, human studies on its potential cancer-fighting properties are necessary to assess safety and effectiveness.
• May aid weight loss and reduce cholesterol: A 2021 review indicates that the triphala formula they used was effective in reducing the blood lipid profile of the participants and their blood glucose. The BMI of the participants who received the triphala formula also decreased, with no side effects noted by the researchers. More research is necessary to the efficacy of triphala on these biomarkers.

While triphala is generally considered safe and has potential health benefits, it may cause side effects in some people.

For example, due to its natural laxative effects, it may cause diarrhea and abdominal discomfort, especially in high doses.

Triphala is not recommended for pregnant or lactating people and should not be administered to children. There are no scientific studies on the use of triphala in these populations, and its safety can’t be guaranteed.

For these reasons, it is important to check with your doctor before using triphala or any other supplement.

Triphala can be purchased at health food stores and online. It’s available in many forms, including capsule, powder or liquid. It is suggested to take triphala between meals on an empty stomach for maximum absorption.

Typically, recommended doses range from 500 milligrams (mg) to one gram per day. Powdered versions can be mixed with warm water and honey and taken before meals.

This powder can also be mixed with ghee, a type of clarified butter, and added to warm water for a soothing drink. Additionally, it can be mixed with honey to form an edible paste.

Large doses of it can cause digestive symptoms like diarrhea, so it’s best to start with a smaller dose and gradually work your way up to the recommended intake.

Though triphala is considered safe for most people, check with your doctor before taking it to ensure safety and proper usage.

Triphala is an Ayurvedic treatment that has become a popular herbal remedy for many ailments.

Studies show it can help prevent inflammation, and test-tube studies have demonstrated a possible protective effect against certain cancers.

Triphala may have certain health benefits, but always talk with a healthcare professional before starting using it.