If looking for an herbal remedy for bowel cleansing and digestion, easing inflammation and boosting immunity, Triphala is your best bet. Triphala is a well-known traditional medication from the Indian subcontinent. This is an Ayurvedic (indigenous medicines) medication that consists of three medicinal plants, amla (Emblicaofficinalis), myrobalan (Terminaliachebula), and bellericmyrobalan (Terminaliabelerica). There are many health benefits of this herbal remedy which this article aims to discuss for the benefit of those considering the product.
Benefits of Triphala
There are a myriad of health benefits in Triphala. These benefits are proven by various scientific studies and research, as well as by first hand usage. Some of these health benefits are mentioned below.
- Helps boost the immune system as it contains antioxidants
- Helps fight bacteria that cause diseases
- Helps maintain the right cholesterol balance
- Helps cleanse the bowels
- Helps with regular bowel movements
- Helps to nourish and rejuvenate tissue
- Helps fight cancer
- Helps with asthma and other respiratory tract infections
- Helps support a healthy urinary and reproductive system
- Helps support the nervous system
- Aids in weight loss
Ways to Use Triphala
Triphala can be ingested in two ways. The primary method of ingesting Triphala is as a tea. The tea can be taken in the morning or before bedtime. The health benefits, as well as, the proper taste of the herb can be experienced best when Triphala is taken as a tea. In order to make one serving, ½ teaspoon of the Triphala powder should be added to a cup of hot water. Stir well and wait for it to cool before enjoying this herbal tea and its associated benefits.
The other method of ensuring your body gets the benefits of Triphala is through Triphala capsules or tablets. These are easier and more conveniently available than the tea as it can be purchased from any health food store. The capsule/tablet is also better for those who do not like the taste of the tea. Furthermore, the capsules/tablet ensures that you get the health benefits of Triphala wherever you are. The recommended dosage for Triphala is two capsules (1000 mg) to be taken in the morning or before bedtime.
Side Effects of Triphala
It is not uncommon for Triphala to cause side effects as it is a natural detoxifying formula. This occurs with most detoxifiers as toxins released from tissue can enter the bloodstream on its way to being flushed out of the body. Therefore, you may experience headaches, a rash, nausea, upset stomach, gas and diarrhea and even dehydration. You may have to discontinue Triphala if your side effects persist, and consult a health care provider.
Contradictions
There is no significant proof of any contradictions of Triphala to other drugs. However, some studies do indicate that Triphala should be used carefully or not at all by people taking blood thinner medications. Pregnant women should also consult their doctors before taking or continuing this herbal supplement.
Buying Triphala
Triphala, as mentioned above, is available in powder form or as a capsule/tablet. It may be beneficial in the long run, to purchase the powder as this is cheaper and may last longer than the tablets/capsules. Purchasers of the supplement are warned to be careful about the seller selected. Consider the quality of the product, the reputation of the seller, the price etc. Always question the sellers on the location the product was grown in, where and how the fruits were harvested and if the fruits are organic. The answers to these questions will help you select the best place to purchase the product.