Triphala Powder

Common Name:

• English: Triphala 
• Also, known as: Triphala Churna, Triphla 

Origin: India   

Parts Used: Mixture of an equal amount of Amla, Behda, and Harde 

General Information:

The Ayurvedic concept appeared and developed between 2500 and 500 BC in India. It developed from the youngest of Vedas, the Atharva Veda, and is considered to be the mother of the healing system in India by scholars. The literal meaning of Ayurveda is “science of life,” because the ancient Indian system of health care focused views of man and his illness. It promotes the use of herbal compounds, special diets, and other unique health practices. Herbal medicines were in great demand in the developed as well as in developing countries for primary health care because of their wide biological and medicinal activities, higher safety margin, and lower costs. The Ayurvedic system of medicine has described various herbal formulations in the treatment of diseases, which play a significant part in modern health care and curing various ailments and diseases. The uses of herbal medicines are increasing as dietary supplements to fight or prevent common diseases.

In Ayurveda, Triphala is a well-known polyherbal formulation. In the Indian system of medicine, it is a Rasayana drug. Triphala is a mixture of the dried powders of three fruits (also known as three myrobalans) such as Amalaki (Amla) - Emblica officinalis, Bibhitaki (Behda) - Terminalia belerica and Haritaki (Harde) - Terminalia chebula in equal proportions. Triphala i.e. ‘Tri’ means three and ‘phala’ means fruits. In Ayurveda it is described as a tridoshic Rasayana that can balance and rejuvenate the three constitutional elements that govern human life i.e.; vata, pitta and kapha.

Triphala is mentioned throughout the ancient literature of Ayurvedic medicine as a tonic, highly prized for its ability to regulate the process of digestion and elimination. It is one of the Ayurvedic medicinal herbal formulations prescribed by most healthcare practitioners. It is gentle for people of all ages from children to adults. The 20th Shloka of Sushruta Samhita states that Triphala can be utilized as a gargling agent in dental diseases because of its antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

How to use:

Powdered Herb:

There are different ways to use a powdered herb.

You can mix powdered herbs with honey or glycerin to make a paste. The thicker the paste, the more potent and herbal in taste. The sweet taste of honey and glycerin will help the medicine go down. This method is also known as "Electuaries".

Capsules: Encapsulating your own powdered herb at home, give you an assurance that the contents of the capsules are pure herb and no filler or any other products. These capsules can be taken with liquid.

Poultice: Poultice can be made with herbal powder and liquid (mostly water) to form a paste which is then applied to the skin. This method is very helpful for skin conditions.

Herbal shot: Powdered herb can be mixed with water, fruit juice or other liquid to make herbal shot. 

Precautions: 

You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

All information on this website is for educational purposes ONLY.

This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.

This information is NOT intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.