Triphala: 3 Main Ingredients and Health Benefits

Triphala is an ancient ayurvedic remedy that Indians have used for almost 1,000 years. Its ingredients come from three medicinal plants that are native to India. This is why naturopaths call it a polyherbal medicine. Consuming triphala is a popular practice to tackle many health ailments.

You may find many varieties of it in stores such as triphala churna, triphala tablets or triphala powder. While its constituents may have a slight difference, you will find 3 medicinal plants as common ingredients. Triphala’s uses range from high bp treatment to treating digestive disorders.

To know more about triphala and its health benefits, read on.

3 Medicinal plants present in triphala

Haritaki

Also known as Terminalia chebula, the green fruit of this plant is one of the major components of triphala. Haritaki is also referred as the king of medicines because of its use in various ailments. It offers relief for many heart conditions, ulcers and stomach ailments [4]. It also has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Additional Read: Ayurvedic Heartburn Remedies 

Bibhitaki

Also known as Terminalia bellirica, bibhitaki is a tree commonly grown in Southeast Asia. The fruit of this tree is mainly used as a remedy for viral or bacterial infections. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds give it antioxidant, antimicrobial and other medicinal properties [1]:

• flavones
• lignans
• tannins
• ellagic acid
• gallic acid

Gallic and ellagic acid found in this are also used in treating diabetes and in blood sugar control [2] [3].

Amla

Commonly known as Indian gooseberry, this is an oldest edible fruit in India. It is a nutrition-rich fruit and has high levels of vitamin C, minerals, and amino acids. Amla is a constipation home remedy as well as a natural way to prevent cancer. It has properties that may prevent or stop the growth of ovarian or cervical cancer cells [5]. 

6 Health benefits of triphala

Relieves constipation

Triphala is an ancient constipation home remedy. It can also be effective for other digestive issues such as flatulence, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements [9].

Prevents certain cancers

Antioxidants such as polyphenols and gallic acid give triphala strong anti-cancer properties. It can help fight the following cancers [6].

• Lymphoma
• Stomach cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Colon cancer
• Prostate cancer

While this is based on test tube studies, doctors are doing more research to check its efficacy and safety. 

Protects against dental issues and cavities

Triphala is an herbal remedy that helps boost your oral health. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help prevent plaque build-up. Plaque formation may lead to gingivitis and cavities. As per studies, triphala mouthwash helps reduce plaque build-up, bacterial growth and inflammation in the gums [7].

Helps in weight loss

Triphala is also used for weight loss, especially belly fat. A study found out that 10 grams of its powder resulted in reduced weight and decreased waist and hip circumference [8]!

Helps prevent cataracts

Fruits present in triphala are a rich source of vitamin E, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Their antioxidants also help reduce free radicals that can damage your cells. This can help prevent age-related conditions such as cataracts. 

Manage type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a common chronic condition that causes high blood sugar levels. Triphala helps lower it and cholesterol levels [10]. Amla and Bibhitaki, two of its main fruits, have antidiabetic properties. These help lower blood sugar, improve insulin resistance and even address nerve damage caused by type 2 diabetes. 

Control blood pressure

The anti-inflammatory properties of triphala help reduce the stress on your blood vessels. This makes it an effective blood pressure medication. Stress and anxiety also lead to increased blood pressure. The calming properties of triphala can help treat stress and anxiety, which keeps your BP in control. 

Helps with skin healing

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of triphala also help with skin health. It is a useful ayurvedic treatment for acne. It helps you heal by protecting your skin cells [11]. 

Additional Read: Ayurvedic Remedies for Acne

While triphala is an ancient remedy and rarely has any side effects, you may experience the following problems in some cases:

• diarrhea
• gas
• cramps
• abdominal discomfort

It is also not advised for lactating or pregnant women. It may further react with certain medications or may make certain health conditions worse. 

Keeping this in mind, you should talk to a doctor before you include triphala in your diet. You can book an in-clinic appointment or teleconsultation with the best doctors on Bajaj Finserv Health. They will guide you on the exact dosage of this herbal remedy based on your health and activities.