Triphala, Ayurvedic Herbal-mix
Triphala is an Ayurveda herbal-mix used to relieve constipation, promote digestion, increase
red blood count and potential anti-cancer agent
Triphala is the most popular Ayurveda herbal-mix. Triphala is classified as a Rasayana (Rejuvenating compound)
in Ayurveda. Tri-phala
means three (tri) fruits (phal). The three herbal fruits used in making Triphala are: Amla (Amalaki, Emblica
officinalis), Harda (Haritaki, Terminalia Chebula), and Baheda (Bibhitaki, Terminalia Bellirica).
- Amla has five out of six Ayurveda Rasa (Sweet Sour Pungent Bitter Astringent). The missing taste is Salty.
It has cooling effect. Amla can be used to balance Pitta (control inflammation). Amla has a very high
concentration of Vitamin C. One berry contains over 3,500 mg of Vitamin C.
- Harda has five out of six Ayurveda Rasa (Sweet Sour Pungent Bitter Astringent). The missing taste is Salty. It has
heating effect. It can be used to balance Vata (control degeneration,
constipation). It
is high in Tannin (up to 30%), Chebulinic acid, and many B Vitamins. It is easily absorbed. It is good for the
eye.
- Baheda is Pungent Bitter and Astringent tastes. It can be used to balance Kapha (control congestion and help
reduce weight). It is high in Vitamin A and Omega 3 fatty acids.
Ingredients
Normally, all the three ingredients are used in equal quantity by weight. The amounts may be
changed according to Dosha. For a laxative, one may use twice as much Harda than either Amla or Baheda.
1. Amla, dried fruits, seeds removed: 1 ounce
2. Harda (Big Vijay variety), dried fruits, seeds removed: 1 ounce
There are seven varieties and three three types. Choose Big Vijaya
3. Baheda, dried fruits, seeds removed: 1 ounce
Method
1. Grind all the ingredients together to make a fine powder. The best method is to use a food
processor and process in continuous mode for one minute. If needed, sieve through fine mesh.
2. Transfer the Triphala powder to a jar with tight fitting lid. It is preferred that jar be metal or dark
colored glass to avoid sun-light. The Triphala should not be stored in direct sun-light or damp place.
3. With time, Triphala will become rancid. Therefore, it is preferred to store it in refrigerator for extended
shelf life.
Ayurveda Properties
Rasa: Sweet Sour Pungent Bitter Astringent
Virya: Neutral
Vipaka: Sweet
Guna: Light Dry
Dosha: Balance all Dosha
Dhatu: All tissues rejuvenated
Srota : All channels cleansed- especially channels of elimination
Uses
In general, Triphala is used for its carminative, laxative, and ability to kill intestinal
worms
- Non-habit forming, slow-acting, gentle laxative
-
Treat chronic constipation, and regulate bowl movement - Improve appetite, and digestion
-
Relieve small intestine inflammation - Cleanse entire
digestive tract, and eliminate 'Ama' the toxins accumulated by poor digestion
In addition, it may help with following:
- Increase red blood cell count
- Anti cancer to kill tumors cells, while leaving normal cells alone
Dosage
- As a general tonic, use ½ teaspoon in the morning and ½
teaspoon in the evening before going to bed
- To treat chronic constipation, use one level Tablespoon in the morning and one level Tablespoon in the
evening before going to bed
Directions (Anupan)
There are several ways to Take Triphala
- Balance Vata
Mix ½ teaspoon of Triphala powder with one teaspoon of Ghee and and½
teaspoon of Honey to form a paste. Swallow the paste
and follow it with a cup of warm water.
- Balance Pitta
Mix ½ teaspoon of Triphala powder with ½ teaspoon of Ghee to form a paste. Swallow the paste and follow
it with a cup of warm water.
- Balance Kapha
Mix ½ teaspoon Triphala powder with ½ teaspoon of Honey to form a paste. Swallow the paste and
follow it with a cup of warm water.
- Hair growth
Mix one teaspoon of Triphala powder with one teaspoon of Aloe Vera. Work into scalp. Let it stand for 15
minutes. Wash and Rinse. Apply 3 times a week for 3 months
- Eye wash
Bring one cup of water to a boil. Add ½ teaspoon of Triphala powder. Stir. Let it stand overnight. Use this as an eye wash or tonic in
the morning
- Do not take Triphala with cold water juice or milk. The liquids must be at least room temperature if not
warm.
Miscellaneous Triphala Formula
- 'Triphala Shilajita' Formulated for weight loss, and pre-diabetic persons
Grind together: One part Amla, One part Harda, One part Baheda, and One part Shilajita to a fine powder. Take
½ teaspoon in the morning and ½ teaspoon in the evening with warm water.
- 'Triphala Guggulu' Formulated to reduce cancer tumor cells
Grind together: One part Amla, One part Harda, One part Baheda, One part Guggulu, and one part Pippali
to a fine powder. Take ½ teaspoon in the morning and ½ teaspoon in the evening with warm
water.. |