The Multi Talented Triphala

By far Triphala is one of the most popular herbal compounds going in the Ayurvedic arena. Triphala literally translates as ‘three fruits’ and is the herbal compound made of three essential cleansing but rejuvenating properties so a perfect broad spectrum combination that enhances the homeostasis if the body. For me it’s the kind of herb that just gently puts the spring back in your step. It’s just like the glue that brings everything together in a harmonious way.

If there is one ayurvedic herbal compound that you are keen embrace over the ‘spring cleanse’ period this is one of the best options. Just consult your practitioner for safe dosage and administration.

 Here’s a little breakdown on the three key ingredients 

Amalaki - Emblica Officinalis

Jam-packed with vitamin C, amalaki is the Indian gooseberry fruit and has powerful antioxidant properties and is a prized choice for balancing pitta. It contains all 6 tastes except salty, so highly balancing to the palate. It is often used as a stand alone single herbs for is ability to flush out toxins and strengthen the liver function, hence a tonic for skin health. It is a powerful rejuvenative herb that can help the absorption of nutrients including calcium, iron and more. As well as being a powerful immunity enhancer.

Haritaki - Terminalia Chebula

The powerful anti-inflammatory property mean that it can be used as a mild laxative by itself as it has a direct impact on the vata dosha. Described by sage Charaka as ‘nourishing as a mothers milk’, haritaki acts as a powerful rejuvenative for the eyes, skin and brings mental clarity and enhances memory.

Bibhitaki - Terminalia Belerica

This small but smart little fruit has the special ability to create homeostasis in the body and bring balance to the kapha dosha due to its heating and drying properties. It has great antibacterial properties and sage Sushruta highlighted its special ability to help clear the blocked body channels. It has been said to be good for the eyes and nourish the hair.

These three fruits that are all native to India, have a balancing effect to balancing all three of our doshas making it suitable for almost everyone. The doshas are the bio-energetic forces that control all our mind and body functions. I think of it as the multi-vitamin of the ayurvedic herb world.

Triphala helps to gently detoxify the body, including the blood, muscle and fat tissues, gives overall support to the immune system and assists in the repair of tissues especially in the process of transformation from one tissue to the next. High with anti-oxidants, it is a powerful anti-inflammatory, anti bacterial and anti viral properties. It has this unique ability to the repair work that happens behind the scenes and for this reason is a great tonic to take before bed.

One of the key reasons that I use triphala for many clients, is that is has an all rounded health benefits, particularly for digestive health and as a colon tonic. It has the ability to drawing stagnant ama (toxins) from the digestive tract to be eliminated and enhance the absorption functionality of the colon. The colon is the home to the ‘vata dosha’ therefore triphala can have a positive impact on many vata-related issues. Triphala encourages bowel regularity for this who suffer from irregular elimination or constipation.

The three-fruit compound can be taken as a powder, capsule or tablet and can gently enhance and regulate appetite, digestion, and metabolism as well as improve the liver functions.

For me the uniqueness of triphala is its powerful rasayana (rejuvenative) properties. What does this means? Well it has the ability enhance ojas (the inner vitality that comes from well digested food and nourished tissues.) A rasayana is considered an elixir to promote longevity, nourish the mind, nervous system and strengthening the blood and muscle tissue and protects the heart eyes and skin. It goes around subtly repairing the damage before diseases manifest.

Purchase your triphala from Triveda and use the discount code: GEETAVARA5OFF.

Other recommended brands include: Essential Ayurveda, Fushi and Pukka