TRIPHALA

 

Triphala was formulated by Ayurveda physicians thousands of years ago and is used by literally billions of people.  As I conducted my research I came across a folk phrase that put a smile on my face.

          

“No mother? No problem, so long as you have Triphala.”

The reason for this quote is because Triphala became recognized as a wonder formula claiming to:

 

• Improve digestion
• Reduce serum cholersterol
• Improve circulation
• Contain 31% linoleic acid
• Exert a marked cardio-protective effect
• Reduce high blood pressure
• Improve liver function
• Possess anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties
• Be both an expectorant and hypotensive

Other practitioners refer to Triphala as a “wonder remedy” because Triphala is an most effective colon tonic. The rationale is that while other colon formulas are depleting but Triphala is mild, non-habit forming, and rejuvenating. One reason for this praise is that a person’s vegetarian constitution cannot support harsh laxatives. Many in India and Tibet are vegetarian.  Triphala is not harsh and is highly nutritional.

There are two types of herbal laxatives, purgative and lubricating bulk.  A purgative one stimulates the peristaltic (involuntary contraction) action of the intestinal lining.  The other, lubricating bulk, is nutritional and does not have a significant effect on either the liver or gall bladder. As a layman, I believe that it is better to include lubrication and nutrition in the diet rather than “force” an action in the body.  I am not sure which is the cause and result.  Is it because Triphala is a lubricant, that we get the nutritional benefits or is it because Triphala is nutritional that it is a lubricant?

Triphala, meaning "three fruits", consisting of three herbs, each one balancing one of the doshas. The effectiveness of Triphala comes from the three herbs being individually potent healers and combined even more powerful. Unlike Western medicine that addresses the problem with little concern about the total body, Triphala addresses the problem AND the wellbeing of the body.

The herbs are:

• Amalaki (Emblica Officinalis) is one of Ayurveda's greatest rejuvenators and a strong natural anti-oxidant. It helps to boost the immune system and balances PITTA.
• Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula) is considered the Tibetan "king of medicine". We often see this classic heart-brain-longevity tonic depicted in the extended palm of the Buddha. It balances VATA.
• Bibhitaki (Terminalia Belerica) is a powerful rejuvenative that reduces liver and heart disease. It also improves the voice, vision, promotes the growth of hair and balances KAPHA.

When we look at other characteristics of Triphala’s three main components, we begin to see clearly how Triphala applies the principles of Ayurveda. These characteristics are:

Amalaki (also known as Amla) is cooling tonic, astringent and reduces fever. It is also anti-bacterial and anti-viral. These imbalances are synonymous with PITTA imbalances.

Haritaki (also spelled as Harada) is astringent, lubricant, antiparastitical, treats nervousness and anxiety. People with VATA dominance tend toward nervousness and anxiety.

Bibhitaki (also spelled Bihara) purifies excess mucus, treats asthma, bronchiole conditions and allergies. The KAPHA energy, when out of balance shows up with these ailments.

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