Triphala: The Ayurvedic Herbal Remedy Everyone Should Be Taking
By Dr. Puja Shah
Some herbs are good for some people, and other herbs are good for other people. But the tri-herb formula known as Triphala? It’s good for literally everyone in every season.
In fact, according to Ayurvedic expert and neurologist Dr. Kulreet Chaudhary, “Triphala is the herb that every American should be on,” due to its incredible positive impact on digestion, detoxification, and Dosha balancing.
What’s Triphala?
The herbal tonic known as Triphala (“3 fruits” in ancient Sanskrit) is made up of three Indian fruits:
Amalaki (emblica officinalis): This powder comes from the dried Indian Gooseberry, and is known for its many health benefits. According to Dr. Chaudhary, Amalaki is an antioxidant that reduces inflammation in the body, while increasing lean muscle mass and helping control blood sugar. The Amalaki berry has one of the highest concentrations of Vitamin C of any fruit, and has been found to increase energy and immunity, and purify the blood.
Haritaki (terminalia chebula): This fruit grows on the “terminalia chebula” tree found primarily in Southern Asia. Dr. Chaudhary lauds Haritaki as a wonderful berry for getting rid of toxins in the colon, which is one of the most important organs for preventing Ama: the residue of undigested or partially digested food, which is usually caused by a poor digestive fire. This residue can accumulate, stagnate, ferment, and cause disease, being the earliest form of disease manifestation in the body. It has also been shown to improve digestion and heart function, and is widely used as an anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial agent.
Bibhitaki (terminalia belerica): According to Dr. Chaudhary, this herb eliminates all the extra water and fat in your cells. Its fruit comes from a large tree called “terminalia belerica” that grows in the hills of Southeast Asia. It contains high amounts of linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid that has the ability to reduce fat in your bloodstream, while increasing your HDL (good) cholesterol and reduces your LDL (bad) cholesterol.
The remarkable healing power of Triphala
Thousands of years ago, Triphala was said to help people completely avoid many of the modern ailments we suffer from today – including diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, and more.
According to Eastern science, all of these conditions stem from the gut – and consider that today, over 70 million Americans suffer from gut and digestive issues.
Here are some of the many benefits of Triphala:
Digestive Health: Triphala is renowned for its ability to support digestive function. It helps regulate bowel movements, alleviate constipation, and promote healthy digestion by toning the intestines and supporting the natural movement of food through the digestive tract.
Detoxification: Triphala is considered a potent detoxifier in Ayurveda. It helps remove accumulated toxins (Ama) from the body, cleanse the colon, and support the elimination of waste products. Regular use of Triphala aids in detoxifying the body’s tissues and promoting overall wellness.
Antioxidant Properties: Triphala is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and bioflavonoids, which help neutralize free radicals and protect the body from oxidative damage. Its antioxidant properties support cellular health, skin health, and overall longevity.
Immune Support: Triphala enhances immune function by supporting the body’s natural defense mechanisms. It helps strengthen the immune system, increase resistance to infections, and promote overall vitality and well-being.
Balancing Doshas: Triphala is considered tridoshic, meaning it balances all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) in the body. It helps maintain equilibrium among the doshas, promoting optimal health and preventing imbalances that can lead to disease.
Eye Health: Triphala is traditionally used to promote eye health and vision. It nourishes the eyes, reduces eye strain, and supports the natural cleansing of the ocular tissues, helping maintain clear vision and eye comfort.
Oral Health: Triphala is beneficial for oral hygiene and gum health. It can be used as a mouth rinse or gargle to support gum health, freshen breath, and maintain overall oral hygiene.
Weight Management: Triphala is often used to support healthy weight management. It helps regulate metabolism, improve digestion, and remove excess toxins from the body, making it beneficial for those seeking to maintain a healthy weight.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Triphala exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for alleviating inflammation in the body. It can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, joints, and other tissues, promoting comfort and well-being.
Not too shabby for 3 little fruits, right?
How to add Triphala to your diet
Triphala Powder: Triphala is commonly available in powder form, which can be mixed with water, juice, or honey and consumed. Start with a small dose, such as half a teaspoon, and gradually increase to one or two teaspoons daily, depending on your tolerance and desired effects.
Triphala Tea: You can make Triphala tea by steeping Triphala powder in hot water for a few minutes. Add honey or lemon for flavor if desired. Sip the tea slowly, preferably on an empty stomach in the morning or evening.
Triphala Capsules or Tablets: If you prefer convenience, Triphala is also available in capsule or tablet form. Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for guidance.
Triphala Churna (Decoction): Triphala Churna is a traditional Ayurvedic preparation where Triphala powder is simmered in water to make a decoction. Once cooled, the liquid can be strained and consumed as a tonic.
Triphala Ghee: You can mix Triphala powder with ghee (clarified butter) to make Triphala ghee. This mixture can be consumed directly or used as a spread on toast or crackers.
Triphala Juice: Blend Triphala powder with water or fresh fruit juice to make a refreshing and nutritious beverage. You can also add other herbs or spices for added flavor and benefits.
Triphala Smoothie: Incorporate Triphala powder into your favorite smoothie recipe for an extra nutritional boost. Blend it with fruits, leafy greens, yogurt, or plant-based milk for a delicious and nourishing treat.
My husband Amish and I take Triphala daily. But if you’re just starting out with it, remember to start with a small dose, and gradually increase as needed.
Enjoy experimenting with Triphala, and here’s to your holistic wellness!
About Dr. Puja Shah, Editor-in-Chief of The Natural Law
Dr. Puja Shah is an award-winning author whose 93 year old grandmother swore by Ayurvedic remedies and practiced yoga into her last days. And so while her education includes 9 years of medical training as a dentist, 3 teaching qualifications in yoga, and dozens of courses in meditation, it’s no wonder that she always goes back to Ayurveda. Puja harnesses Ayurveda regularly with her children and husband Amish Shah, Founder of The Natural Law.
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