Triphala

त्रिफला

Tridoshic (balances Vata, Pitta, and Kapha)

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)
Primary

Amalaki (Amla)

Emblica officinalis

Function in this Combination:

Rich in Vitamin C, it rejuvenates tissues, balances Pitta, and supports the immune system.

Balances all three doshas, especially Pitta
Bibhitaki
Supportive

Bibhitaki

Terminalia bellirica

Function in this Combination:

Removes excess mucus and Kapha from the system, supports respiratory health, and helps eliminate toxins.

Balances Kapha and Pitta
Haritaki
Enhancer

Haritaki

Terminalia chebula

Function in this Combination:

Improves digestion, absorption, and elimination. Considered the 'king of medicines' in Tibet.

Balances Vata primarily

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

Digestive Health
Gentle Detoxification
Rejuvenation
Eye Health
Colon Cleansing

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.

Tissue Effects (Dhatus)

Plasma
Blood
Muscle
Fat
Bone
Nerve
Reproductive