Food is the basis of our health

Triphala: Amla + Bibhitaki + Haritaki

What is Triphala?

Triphala is an herbal formula used in the ancient science of Ayurveda. The word Triphala translates as “three fruits”, which are Amla (or Amalaki), Haritaki and Bibhitaki.

Indian folk saying

‘Don’t have a mother? Don’t worry, as long as you have Triphala’. This statement alludes to the belief that Triphala takes care of the internal organs, just as a mother takes care of her children.

Internal cleaner

Triphala safely regulates the intestines. It is a mild internal cleanser and, although not considered a purgative in itself, has a cleansing effect on the digestive system and blood.

Other benefits

Triphala strengthens the eyes, and is a potent antioxidant, antimicrobial. Daily use supports the absorption of nutrients, promotes normal digestion, aids in the elimination of fat and increases red blood cells.

triphala

Components of the Triphala

Amalaki

Amalaki is known by its botanical name Embelica officinalis and Phyllanthus officinalis. It is also known by its Sanskrit name Dhatri (the nurse), which refers to its incredible healing properties. Amalaki can be consumed on its own in powder form or as a decoction. Although it is an herb with many benefits, caution should be exercised when the user has symptoms such as dysentery or acute diarrhoea.
In India, Amalaki fruit has historically been used for its health benefits. It is taken in various forms, from pickles and preserves to yoghurt mixed with Amalaki fruit powder. Chyavanprash, a rejuvenating herbal jelly and general tonic, is made from the Amalaki fruit.
Amalaki fruits, well known in Ayurveda as rasayanas, have anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties. For a while it was thought that its anti-oxidant properties were due to a high vitamin C content, however, clinical studies suggest that Amalaki actually has no vitamin C, and that its anti-oxidant effect ‘…is due to the tannins emblicanin A and B, punigluconin and pedunculagin…’.
Ayurvedic Description
According to the Caraka Samhita, Amalaki has the same attributes as Haritaki, that is, it contains the same flavours except for potency, since while Amalaki is cold, Haritaki is hot. Amalaki reduces both Pitta and Vata and taken in excess increases Kapha. It also increases Ojas and is good for all tissues.
According to the Encyclopedia of Ayurveda, Amalaki works on all tissues and on the circulatory, digestive and excretory systems; other actions of Amalaki are mentioned as “aphrodisiac, astringent, haemostatic, laxative, nutritive tonic, cooling, rejuvenating (for Pitta).”
Amalaki is good for all Pitta-type conditions and diseases involving inflammation. It is also a blood sugar regulator and a heart tonic. It rebuilds the blood by increasing the red cell count. It is used for diseases such as anaemia and diabetes. In the digestive system, it cleanses the intestines and stops inflammation of the colon and stomach. It is also used in conditions of the urinary system such as pain when urinating and other difficult-to-relieve conditions.

Bibhitaki

Bibhitaki is a strong laxative herb, known by its botanical name Terminalia bellirica. Bibhitaki is astringent, sweet and warm in nature. It is a tonic for Kapha and is said to improve conditions affecting the voice.
Ayurvedic Description
Bibhitaki is a rejuvenating and tonic herb for Kapha. It is a strong laxative herb and being astringent, it cleanses and tones the intestines. Although it is hot in nature, it does not increase Pitta. It is effective in removing stones and Kapha accumulations. Taken in excess it can aggravate Vata, so those with Vata symptoms should be cautious.
According to the Ayurvedic Encyclopedia, Bibhitaki is an herb that works on plasma, muscular and bone tissues and on the digestive, excretory, nervous and respiratory systems. Additionally, the actions of Bibhitaki are “anthelminthic, antiseptic, astringent, expectorant, laxative, lithotrope, rejuvenating, tonic.”
Bibhitaki is used to remove Kapha accumulations in the urinary tract, such as stones. It is good for conditions of chronic diarrhea, dysentery and to increase appetite. It is also effective for colds and coughs; taken with honey it is good for a sore throat.

Haritaki

Haritaki is known by the botanical name Terminalia chebula. It is considered one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda.
Ayurvedic Description
The Caraka-Samhita describes Haritaki as an herb that has all tastes except salty. It also claims that it can “eliminate the doshas”, stimulate digestion and promote longevity. Haritaki’s actions are “rejuvenating, tonic, astringent, laxative, nervine, expectorant, anthelmintic.” Caution should be exercised when consuming it by pregnant women and those with elevated Pitta. Haritaki is good for all tissues.
It is also a digestive herb that regulates colon function. It improves absorption and depending on the dose taken it can have a dual action of correcting diarrhea and constipation.

Conclusion

The Western lifestyle can take a toll on the body, throwing the doshas out of balance, leading to poor health. Unhealthy digestion, or the consumption of low-quality foods increases ama and leads to health difficulties. Recently, I realized that I had too much ama due to the low-quality foods I was consuming. This resulted in digestive problems and the feeling of lethargy and imbalance. I started taking Triphala, 1 teaspoon in warm water at night before bed. A week or so later I felt my energy begin to increase and my digestion improve. These improvements came from following a healthy, balanced dosha diet.
Today, the economic situation in the world shows us the need to evaluate the costs of various aspects in society. The costs of health care can be mediated by a healthy lifestyle. Triphala offers a low-cost alternative for the treatment of daily problems such as digestive complaints. It is a natural, organic product that can be taken daily to improve health. Triphala is a gift from the ancient Ayurvedic tradition.
In a world where the general population is looking for digestive support of all kinds, Triphala offers a simple solution that should be part of any diet, of course a doshic diet would be even better, however, Triphala provides its benefits to those who choose to have an unhealthy diet and lifestyle.