Triphala
त्रिफला
A renowned Ayurvedic formulation consisting of three fruits that work synergistically to support digestive health and gentle detoxification.
Synergistic Components
How these herbs work together to create enhanced therapeutic effects
Amalaki (Amla)
Emblica officinalis
Bibhitaki
Terminalia bellirica
Ayurvedic Rationale
The traditional wisdom behind this combination
Synergistic Effect: In Ayurveda, the combined effect of herbs is often greater than the sum of their individual effects.
Triphala exemplifies Ayurvedic synergy by combining herbs that balance all three doshas. Each fruit addresses a specific dosha while supporting the others' actions. Together, they create a tridoshic formula that gently detoxifies the digestive tract without depleting the body's strength.
Taste (Rasa)
All six tastes (sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, astringent)
Potency (Virya)
Neutral
Post-Digestive Effect (Vipaka)
Sweet
Channels (Srotas)
Digestive, Respiratory, Urinary, Reproductive
Triphala is one of the most revered and widely used formulations in Ayurvedic medicine. The name 'Triphala' literally means 'three fruits' in Sanskrit, referring to the three medicinal fruits that comprise this formula: Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). What makes Triphala unique is that each fruit targets a specific dosha while supporting the others' actions. Amalaki primarily balances Pitta dosha with its cooling energy, while also providing rejuvenative effects. Bibhitaki focuses on Kapha dosha, helping to remove excess mucus and supporting the respiratory system. Haritaki mainly addresses Vata dosha, improving elimination and supporting the nervous system. When combined, these three fruits create a synergistic formula that is considered tridoshic – balancing all three doshas simultaneously. This makes Triphala suitable for almost everyone, regardless of their constitutional type.
Practical Usage
Primary Uses
Traditional Preparation
Traditionally taken as a powder mixed with warm water or honey, or as a decoction.
Typical Dosage
Typically 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of powder taken with warm water before bed or on an empty stomach.
Precautions
Generally safe for most people. May cause loose stools initially as it detoxifies the system. Not recommended during pregnancy without practitioner guidance.