Triphala is a compound of three fruits (Tri = three and phala = fruits), which grow in India and the Middle East. The fruits are Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) an Indian gooseberry tree, Bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) which are also fruit trees. The fruits of all three are dried and ground into powder to create Triphala powder compound, which is a fantastic bowel tonic — supporting digestion and regular bowel movements as well as cleansing and detoxifying the digestive tract.
Triphala has been given the name ‘Nectar of Life’ — it is also used in Ayurveda to rejuvenate and nourish the tissues and to support the respiratory, cardiovascular, reproductive, urinary, and nervous systems. It has anti- viral, anti-bacterial and anti-cancer properties; it is also rich in antioxidants.
Research shows the naturally occurring chemicals (polyphenols) in Triphala modulate the human gut microbiome and in this way promote the growth of beneficial Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus (both friendly bacteria we need) while inhibiting the growth of undesirable gut microbes. The gut microbes that support our health can draw out the effects of Triphala to generate anti- inflammatory compounds.
It is usually taken as a tea: mix 1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon into a mug of hot water, leave for a few hours then drink on an empty stomach, either just before bed or first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
Triphala contains 5 of the 6 tastes, excluding salty. For Ayurveda taste is important, and different areas of the tongue register the 6 different tastes of sweet, salty, sour, bitter, astringent, and pungent. This allows your digestion to know what to expect and kicks off the digestive process.
By taking Triphala in this way before going to bed, your bowels will be ready to empty in the morning. Vasant Lad, a leading Ayurvedic physician says that to begin the day this way brings clarity, compassion, and love and that if you want love, you should take triphala . In other words when you have a clean colon you fall in love with your life!
Contraindications
Do not use: If you are pregnant because two of the components can cause contractions. If you are breastfeeding because it is not suitable for infants and children. If you have a bleeding disorder or bruise and bleed easily. Check with your doctor if you are diabetic because it can modify blood sugar levels, and if you are taking any prescribed medicines. While beneficial for constipation and diarrhoea, if the diarrhoea were to continue after a couple of days discontinue using, and always check with your doctor.
Always check with your doctor if you have any need for concern.
Here is a link to a paper on Triphala.
