Triphala Benefits: The Power of Amla, Haritaki and Bibhitaki

When it comes to natural wellness, herbal remedies have played a part for millennia. The benefits of Triphala are a testament to the deep wisdom of ancient approaches to health, confirmed by modern science and research. Whether a single herb growing since the dawn of time, or a blend masterfully concocted thousands of years ago and used to this day, plants are at the foundation of lasting health. Triphala is one such masterful blend of ancient Indian and Tibetan formulas that tones and balances the whole human system. 

What is triphala? 

Triphala is a blend of three fruits, namely amla, haritaki and bibhitaki. In Sanskrit, the word Triphala actually means three fruits, and this blend is one of the oldest in Ayurveda. Triphala is best known for its ability to detoxify, cleanse and support digestion. The three fruits are considered the pillars of Rasayana, or rejuvenative therapy. Together, they work synergistically as the ultimate tonic for comfort, vitality and wellness. In fact, there is a folk saying in India that goes,

“No mother? Do not worry so long as you have Triphala.”

Triphala can be found in supplement and powder form at your local health food store or online. 

The three fruits in triphala 

Amla, bibhitaki and haritaki are nutritional powerhouses even on their own, but together they create the ultimate whole body invigorator and tridosha rasayana. Each of the fruits play a role, and work synergistically together for optimal benefits and absorption. Amla, also known as Amalaki or Indian Gooseberry, is a potent antioxidant and colon cleanser. Bibhitaki, also spelt Vibhitaki, is a blood forming fruit that helps support lung, heart, kidney and liver health. Haritaki is a brain tonic that supports digestion and gut health. 

The blend is also considered tridoshic, meaning it supports all three doshas: vata (energy of air, space and movement), pitta (energy of fire, digestion and metabolism), and kapha (energy of water, earth and lubrication). 

6 Triphala Benefits

Triphala is most commonly known for its ability to aid in digestion, but it goes beyond that. Most supplements for digestion are purgatives, meaning yes, they can help remove stagnant waste, but they simultaneously deplete the body of minerals and fluids. Triphala, on the other hand, can help with healthy digestive and gastrointestinal function, while restoring essential nutrients at the same time. Instead of exhausting the body, triphala brings movement and vitality to the entire body and mind. Here are eight amazing triphala benefits: 

1. Digestion-supporting

Triphala is best known for its ability to help support digestion and gut health. The herbal blend aids the body in efficiently digesting food, absorbing nutrients and eliminating waste, while making sure you’re left energized and rejuvenated. It has a smoothing effect on the digestive mucous membranes, and also contains quercetin and gallic acid, which help promote a healthy gut microbiome. Haritaki, one of the three herbs, is traditionally considered an improver of amashaya shakti, or the power of digestion. 

2. Cleansing.

Amla, bibhitaki and haritaki all have colon cleansing properties that help flush toxins. Bibhitaki and haritaki bring gentle laxative action, supporting healthy elimination. The best part is, while it cleanses you of waste and toxins, it doesn’t deplete you of nutrients and fluids. It brings the vitamins, minerals and lubrication needed to feel energized, renewed and purified. 

3. Antioxidant action.

Amla, haritaki and bibhitaki are all rich sources of potent antioxidants like tannins, gallic acid, ellagic acid and chebulinic acid. Antioxidants are molecules that fight free radicals in the body, and help prevent or slow down damage to the cells. In general, antioxidants are known to help protect the bodies internal health and outward appearance. In the case of triphala, studies have been conducted showing its antioxidant effect on aging, eye health and inflammatory response. 

4. Stress relieving.

Haritaki and amla are both adaptogens, which means they help the body respond and adapt to mental, physical and environmental stress. Instead of reacting and going into flight or fight mode when a physical, emotional or spiritual challenge arises, triphala can help maintain balance and homeostasis in the body and mind. According to research, Triphala’s ability to mediate stress response is also attributed to the antioxidants in the fruits. 

5. Immuno-modulating.

Triphala is packed with immuno-modulating and protective antioxidants, flavonoids, polyphenols and other nutrients. It’s also worth noting that Amla contains 10 to 30 times more Vitamin C than an orange. All of these bioactive compounds help bolster the immune system and support everyday health and wellness. Plus, triphala is known to support a healthy inflammatory response. As research shows, inflammation is a major culprit when it comes to various health issues. Enjoy this lip smacking Chyawanprash-Inspired Amla Jam recipe as your spread of choice when looking to support immune health.

6. Beautifying. 

On the topical side of the spectrum, there are also triphala benefits for hair and skin health. For hair, the three fruits work together to help stimulate the follicles and roots for lush and vibrant locks. For skin, triphala’s ability to support a healthy inflammatory response and feed the body antioxidants can help protect and preserve the appearance of the skin from the inside out. 

Whether you are taking a herbal supplement, blending the powder into your favorite smoothies, or mixing with water and/or coconut oil for topical use, triphala is an amazing addition to any wellness regimen. Not only can it help support digestive health, it can relieve stress, modulate immunity, and tonify the entire body and mind. A simple and natural way to amp up your daily sense of vitality.