Triphala (Tri– three, Phala– fruit) Churna (mixture) is a herbal mixture/formula consumed as an Ayurvedic medicine. When prepared in the correct ratio of its 3 ingredients, it has the ability to detoxify our body by eliminating toxins from deeper tissues inside the body. With its deep cleansing effect on internal organs, it rejuvenates the body from inside out. There is a folk saying in India: Triphala cares for internal organs, much in the same way a mother takes care of her children.
How is Triphala made:
Triphala is made from the dried powder of three different fruits with medicinal values as follows.
Amla: It is also known as Indian Gooseberry. It has diuretic, digestive, laxative, nourishing, and anti inflammatory properties. It balances Pitta Dosha with its cooling effect.
Bibhitaki: It is also called as Bedda or Baheda. It is used in the treatment of diabetes, high blood pressure and rheumatism (inflammation and pain in the joints, muscles, or fibrous tissue). It balances Kapha Dosha.
Haritaki: It is a nut-like fruit. It is commonly known as Harad. It treats a variety of health issues including constipation, dementia(brain disorders) and diabetes. It is known for its ‘scraping effect’, which removes toxins and helps maintain healthy levels of weight. It balances all the three Doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha).
These three herbs in Triphala make it a powerful formula which balances all the three Doshas in the body. According to Ayurveda a balance of all three Doshas is an indication of a persons good health.
Let us look at some of the benefits of Triphala, and its potential to treat illnesses.
Benefits of Triphala:
Improves Digestive Health
Maintaining a healthy digestive system is a key to overall health. The three herbs that make up Triphala have laxative actions. It gives relief from constipation by stimulating the mucosa of the gastric-intestinal tract. Triphala further aids in digestion by eliminating toxins from the intestinal tract.
Maintains Healthy Colon
Triphala works well as a colon cleanser. It regulates the functions of the colon. Proper regulation of the colon is a key to good health and longevity. The colon functions as an organ of elimination and it is also responsible for absorption of the nutrients from the food we eat. Healthy colon ensures the proper absorption of nutrients inside our body.
Acts as a Detoxifier
Triphala has a detoxifying effect on the body. The three herbs that are used in Triphala work together to clean and eliminate the toxins out from the deep tissues of the body.
Boosts Immunity
Triphala improves blood circulation and nourishes the body from within. By providing the effective absorption of the necessary nutrients and minerals Triphala boosts body’s immunity.
Removes Excess Fat
In conditions of excess weight, Triphala can be used as part of a weight loss program that includes a healthy diet and exercise. Proper digestion and elimination of waste are important factors in achieving long-term weight loss . By promoting healthy absorption and assimilation of nutrients, Triphala keeps the body feeling properly nourished and balanced.
Lowers Cholesterol
Excess cholesterol formation in the body can lead to various heart diseases. Triphala can reduce cholesterol levels and arterial plaque. Recent scientific research also shows that LDL (bad cholesterol) was significantly reduced in animal subjects with high cholesterol that were treated with Triphala. Research sources are mentioned at the end of this post.
Anti-Inflammatory & Anti-Arthritis
Arthritis is an inflammatory disease. It is an inflammation of one or more joints, which causes pain and stiffness that can worsen with age. Triphala’s high antioxidant and polyphenol content make it an excellent anti-inflammatory substance.
Maintains Blood Glucose Level
Scientific research shows that Triphala has a hypoglycemic effects on the body which helps to regulate blood sugar level.
Rejuvenates Skin
The strong presence of many antioxidant compounds present in Triphala clears pigmentation and help kill the acne-causing bacteria. Triphala is ideal for soothing dry and flaky skin as it balances all the three doshas including vata dosha which leads to dry skin. It also purifies blood, which results into glowing skin.
These are some of the major benefits of taking Triphala Churna as a medicine. There are many ways you can use Triphala to cure different conditions.
In my next blog I am going to talk about how to make Triphala Churna at home, with the correct ratio of its 3 ingredients; and also the different ways to consume it. I am also going to talk about contradictions and precautions one should take while having Triphala Churna. Once I post it I will put the link here.
Triphala Churna is also widely available in stores all over the world. See if you can find some good quality powder or tablets in your regular store. Amazon.com also has many good options. Following are some good quality options I found, check them out:
Note: Triphala Churna is completely natural and has been consumed widely for many centuries in India. But if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, or are not sure of it, please consult your doctor before trying it out.
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Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17268159
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3330861/
http://www.ayurvedacollege.com/sites/ayurvedacollege.com/files/triphala.pdf
