Triphala Powder | Tablets | Capsules | Juice Health Benefits

Triphala is a popular Ayurvedic remedy that has a good number of adherents who vouch for its gentle way of providing countless health benefits and curing various disease conditions.  With the Ayurveda way of life spreading far and wide, it is no wonder that almost everyone knows of Ayurvedic remedies like ashwagandha churna, shatavari churna, asokarishta, chyavanprash, and Triphala to name a few.  Not many in the west knew of these a few decades ago.  While the exorbitant cost of conventional treatment and the adverse side effects of the conventional drugs forced everyone to look for an alternative, the rapid increase in the number of people affected by chronic lifestyle diseases and the ineffective treatment rendered by the conventional system was yet another reason that intensified this search. 

It was the effectiveness of Ayurvedic system in treating some of the lifestyle diseases that led to the rapid proliferation of this old medicinal system the world over.  Its time tested remedies have been effective in curing a number of so called ‘incurable’ diseases.  Naturally, some Ayurveda formulations have become household names.  Triphala is one such time tested remedy.
 

Constituents of Triphala

 What is Triphala?

The word ‘Triphala’ means three fruits, the three fruits being Indian gooseberry, chebulicmyrobalan (haritaki), and Terminalia bellirica (bibhitaki).   The three fruits have exceptional medicinal valuable medicinally.  When they come together in Triphala, the resultant synergistic combo bestows a number of health benefits on its users.  No wonder most households these days Triphala is a part of their remedy chest.  Some of the classical Triphala preparations are Triphala guggulu, Triphaladhi Ghrita, Arogyavardhini vati, Triphala kwath, Chandraprabha vati.

Top 12 Health Benefits of Triphala

Indian Gooseberry (Amalaki)

This fruit is cultivated throughout India.  It is found in home gardens as well as grown commercially in a large scale.  It is well known for its Vitamin C content and can be used as a Vitamin C supplement.  It is used medicinally for treating anemia, peptic ulcer, diarrhea, jaundice, weak memory to name a few. 

Terminalia Chebula (Haritaki)

An important constituent in a number of Ayurvedic formulations, Terminalia Chebula (Haritaki) is used in treating asthma, vomiting, biliousness, bleeding piles, bladder diseases, heart conditions etc.  It is an excellent laxative.  It is also used in treating dysentery and diarrhea. 

Terminalia Bellerica (Bibhitaki)

This fruit is found in deciduous forests of India and Burma.  The bark of the tree is used in treating asthma and vitiligo.  It is useful in treating bronchitis, sore throat and diseases of urinary bladder.  The powder of this herb helps arrest bleeding.  The oil made using this herb helps luscious hair growth.

What is Triphala Churna?

The powder obtained on crushing the dry fruits and mixing them in required proportions is called Triphala Powder or ‘Triphala Churna’.  The usual proportion of ingredients is 1:1:1.  The three fruits are dried and finely powdered and then mixed in equal proportion by weight.  This is the general Triphala formulation available in the market.

Health Benefits of Triphala

• Used as a mild and gentle laxative for chronic constipation.
• Rich in anti-oxidants, relieves oxidative pressure.
• Gently detoxifies the body and restores the efficacy of the digestive tract.
• Aids digestion
• Cures sore throat.
• Improves immunity.
• Improves eyesight.
• Helps proper assimilation of food.
• Improves liver function.
• Relieves arthritic pain and reduces inflammation in the joints.
• Helps lose weight
• Helps keep diabetes in check
• Helps fight cancer
• Takes care of allergies
• Helps hair growth
• Eliminates dandruff.
• Brings down excessive cholesterol to normal levels.
• Nourishes skin
• Clears dark circles around eyes
• Improves hair color
• Clears acne

With such a wide range of medicinal property in its possession, it is no wonder Triphala is used extensively in Ayurveda for treating various disease conditions.  Now we will see briefly the medicinal benefits of Triphala powder.

Triphala for Constipation

Triphala for Constipation

It is the non habit forming and non addictive nature of Triphala that has endeared most of its enthusiasts.  Most would have encountered the remedy the first time as a solution for their constipation.  The first choice of an Ayurvedic physician for constipation is Triphala unless the disease conditions suggest otherwise.  Triphala activates the secretion of the digestive juices in stomach.  It also stimulates the peristaltic movement of the large intestines, thus relieving constipation and cleansing the colon.  

For chronic conditions a dose of this powerful remedy (3-5 gm) is taken and mixed in warm water and taken three times a day.  A smaller dose (2-3gm) is recommended as a preventative in case there is a tendency to constipate often.  This dosage relieves constipation and eases bowel movement.

Triphala for Weight Loss

Triphala aids Weight Loss

Triphala stimulates liver and improves the ability to get rid of toxins from our body.  Triphala’s action as a colon cleanser helps weight loss as a healthy colon gets rid of waste in an efficient manner.  Also Triphala helps in proper assimilation of food as well as elimination of waste matter.  It also fights chronic inflammation usually observed in obese people, thus helping the body to get back into fat burning mode.  Being a laxative and cleanser, it expels toxin and excess water resulting in a quick and safe weight loss.

 

Triphala for Cancer

Triphala for Cancer

Triphala is found to stop the growth and proliferation of cancer cells.  Triphala is an excellent scavenger of free radicals and has radio protective properties.  This leads to a sort of cancer cell death (cytotoxicity of cancer cells).  Further studies on the efficacy of Triphala in combating various types of cancer are ongoing in India and other countries.   Breast cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic and blood cancer respond very well to Triphala.

Triphala for Skin Care

Triphala for Skin care

It is well known fact that accumulation of toxins over a period of time impedes the normal functioning of various organs and also manifests as skin eruptions, boils and other skin diseases.  With Triphala being a gentle laxative and excellent detoxifier, it is only reasonable to expect regular intake of Triphala to benefit the skin.  Triphala can also be applied externally to remove skin blemishes.  It adds glow and vitality to the skin.

Indian gooseberry (amlaki) is rich in Vitamin C.  It has excellent anti-inflammatory properties that help the skin regain its lost vitality.  Chebulic myrobalan (haritaki) is a well-known laxative that keeps constipation at bay.  It eases bowel movement and increases frequency of stools.  It also clears fungal infection of the skin.  Terminalia bellerica (bibhitaki) is a well known purgative.  It promotes hair growth and cures premature greying.  It improves immunity and promotes good health.

Triphala for Eyes

Eyesight diminishes with age, due to certain diseases like diabetes, or due to decreasing immunity.  Triphala improves immunity and Triphala decoction cooled and strained can be used as eyewash to take care of various conditions like red eyes, conjunctivitis, glaucoma etc. 

How to take Triphala?

This wonder remedy was taken in powder form since it came into existence.  The taste of the powder is not easily palatable and hence with widespread usage, more easily palatable forms like tablet, capsule and syrup were introduced.

Triphala Churna

Triphala powder is called Triphala churna.  This can be taken once a day, either in the morning or at night.  Ideal dosage would be 1-2 teaspoonfuls per day.  Mix the powder in hot water and allow it to room temperature.  Drink the remedy warm.  For best results it is advised to take the powder well in advance of breakfast or dinner, say 30-45 minutes.

Triphala Tablet/Capsule

Triphala tablets offer the same benefits as the powder sans the difficult taste and reach the stomach more easily.  Two tablets make a spoonful of Triphala powder.  It is not advised to take Triphala in any form when suffering from diarrhea. 

Triphala Syrup/Juice

A completely harmless and easy to use alternative to the churna and tablet/capsule is the Triphala juice.  Triphala juice can be prepared using 8 ounces of warm water.  A lemon is squeezed to this water and a tablespoon of honey is also added.  Now one tablespoon of Triphala powder is added to this water and mixed thoroughly.  Triphala juice is ready for consumption.  Taking Triphala in this form aids weight loss.

Triphala Oil

When Triphala powder is added to hot coconut or sesame oil and then allowed to cool to room temperature the ensuing oil is called Triphala oil.  This oil has excellent wound healing properties.  The oil can be applied on non-healing chronic ulcers.  Regular application helps heal the ulcers.  This oil can also be used to take care of skin blemishes, rashes and other conditions. 

Side effects of Triphala

Most of the side effects occur due to a prolonged excessive dosage of Triphala.  Although Triphala is safe for consumption, care should be taken when taken along with conventional medications as this can cause undesirable effects.  Hence it is advised that you consult with your physician before taking this remedy. 

Ayurveda physicians recommend pregnant women to not take Triphala.  Also Triphala should not be taken when suffering from diarrhea.  In some rare cases Triphala can cause allergic reactions like breathing obstruction, itching and rashes on skin, swelling of throat etc.  Some may experience insomnia and find it difficult to fall asleep in the initial phase which can gradually fade away with regular usage.  In case of experiencing any mild discomfort, it is advised to stop taking the medicament and start again after a few days at a lower dose.

The health benefits of taking Triphala is huge and the side effects if any can be totally eliminated with a judicious adjustment of the dosage. An Ayurvedic expert can guide you in the right direction. 

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Ashwagandha Benefits and Medicinal Uses

What is Ashwagandha?

Withania Somnifera, popularly known as Ashwagandha is used as a single herb or used in polyherbal or herbomineral formulations in Ayurveda.  The word ashwagandha in Sanskrit means ‘horse’s odor’ because of the characteristic odor of the herb similar to horse’s sweat.  It can also mean that the herb bestows the strength and vitality of a horse to the user.   Lots of studies are going on worldwide to test and verify the various healing properties of this herb.

Also known as Indian ginseng, Ashwagandha is used in Ayurveda to treat various disease conditions like epilepsy, tumors, gout, lumbosacral stiffness, stiffness of joints, cardiac failure, vitiligo, ulcers in genital area, diseases of the urinary tract in women, abscess, depression etc.  It has anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, cardioprotective properties.  It is used as a mild tranquilizer because of its sleep inducing property.  It has excellent thyroprotective and hypoglycaemic properties.  It is regarded as a broad spectrum remedy for various disease conditions.  Ashwagandha benefits all parts of human body and can be taken in powder, tablet or capsule form.  Ashwagandha.

Ashwagandha Health Benefits

 Ashwagandha Root Powder

Ashwagandha is also called winter cherry and grows as a small evergreen shrub to a height of 4 or 5 feet. It belongs to the Solanaceae family of which the tomatoes and eggplants belong. It is cultivated widely in central and north western India and used in more than 100 Unani, Siddha and Ayurveda formulations.  All parts of this wonder herb have medicinal value.  Ashwagandha leaves have anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective and antibacterial properties.  The fruits and seeds of the plant are used as diuretic.  It is the root that is mainly used in Ayurvedic formulations.  The root has anti-inflammatory properties and is used in treating swellings, tumors, rheumatism etc.

Chemical Constituents of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha has steroidal lactones called withanolides.  The pharmacological activity of the herb can be attributed to these steroidal lactones.  In addition to that, Ashwagandha also contains 18 fatty acids, some of which are sedative and hypnotic.  It has amino acids aspartic acid, glycine, tyrosine, alanine, glutamic acid and cysteine present in its roots.

Ashwagandha as Adaptogen

Adaptogens help our bodies to adapt to the stresses they are subjected to on a daily basis. They help normalize the physiological functioning of our bodies.  Ashwagandha is clinically proven to have excellent adaptogenic capabilities.  Double blind trial involving 60 healthy children of 8-12 years with oral intake of 2 gm a day of root powder showed an increase in mean corpuscular haemoglobin, total protein and body weight of the children.  No toxic effects were observed even after eight months of daily consumption.  Another study conducted on adults showed increase in haemoglobin and red blood cell count. There was a good reduction in ESR levels and improvement in sexual performance.  Thus Ashwagandha is found to be very helpful in restoring and maintaining general health. 

Ashwagandha for Skin

Ashwagandha for Stress and Anxiety

Ashwagandha root powder was tested in highly stressed individuals and found to safely and effectively increase an individual’s threshold levels to stress, thereby improving his/her quality of life.  Ashwagandha is found to be effective in treating insomnia.  It helps the body generate the necessary energy to settle and sleep and act as a rejuvenator and nervine tonic.  Thus it helps overcome stress related conditions in a positive way.  It rejuvenates the nervous system, eases out stress and takes care of insomnia.  Ashwagandha root powder can be taken with cow’s ghee or sugar to cure sleeplessness.  How much ashwagandha should I take for anxiety?  The usual ashwagandha dosage for anxiety is 3-6 grams a day.

Ashwagandha’s Diuretic, Hypoglycaemic and Hypocholesterolemic Effects

Ashwagandha was found to decrease blood glucose levels comparable to that of an oral hypoglycemic drug. It helps normalize high blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.  Ashwagandha is an excellent diuretic and complements weight loss efforts.  A decrease in serum cholesterol levels was also observed on regular consumption of ashwagandha root powder.  Ashwagandha lowers blood pressure and is found to arrest formation of stress induced ulcers.

Ashwagandha and Cancer

Growth Promoting Effects of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is well known for its growth promoting effects in children.  Studies showed that a 60-day consumption of ashwagandha root powder 2 gm/day along with punarnava 2gm/day had a marked increase in haemoglobin levels, serum iron, MCV and increase in body weight of participants.  Ashwagandha root powder is an excellent growth promoter in children.  It is a well known memory booster.  Children can benefit from drinking a glass of warm grass-fed cow’s milk mixed with a spoonful of ashwagandha root powder every day morning after breakfast.

Ashwagandha has anti-arthritic effects and brings down arthritic pain in joints when taken regularly. A painful, dry, swollen and inflamed joint is taken care of with Ashwagandha herb.  One teaspoon of the root powder is taken in warm milk to reduce the arthritic pain.

Ashwagandha for Young and Old

Ashwagandha Benefits for Weight Loss

When used along with other weight loss supplements, Ashwagandha is found to improve their weight reduction capabilities.  This is due to its adaptogenic property of stabilizing stress related fluctuations.  This helps people who gain weight due to overeating. 

For weight loss efforts to succeed a strong immune system is imperative.  A vibrant immune system facilitates the body to continue its fat burning activities as the general tendency of the body in an immuno-compromised situation is to move away from fat burning mode as fighting the pathogens takes priority.  Hence a strong immune system is necessary for an effective weight loss regimen.  Ashwagandha comes in handy with its immunity boosting capabilities.  Ashwagandha reduces inflammation commonly observed in overweight people.

When adrenal glands produce cortisol in excess in a stressful condition, and when this happens day in and day out, it leads to weight gain, nervous eating, muscle loss etc.  Cortisol being a survival hormone, also stimulates production of glucose and triggers a hunger response in the brain.  Ashwagandha is known to bring down cortisol to reasonable levels thus protecting the adrenal glands and helping weight loss.

How to take Ashwagandha Powder for Weight Loss?

Ashwagandha powder is either mixed in milk or honey, and taken in the mornings after food.

Ashwagandha boosts Immunity

Ashwagandha Leaves for Inflammation

A paste made of ashwagandha leaves is applied topically on local inflammation for quick relief from pain.  Ashwagandha oil (made by adding ashwagandha powder to coconut oil) is used as massage oil for paralysis, sleeplessness etc.

Ashwagandha for Skin

Ashwagandha oil is also used in treating certain skin conditions.  Vitiligo responds favorably to the action of ashwagandha.  Paste made of ashwagandha powder is used in treating keratosis.  It is also an excellent skin toner.  For this purpose, a spoonful of fine ashwagandha root powder is mixed in organic coconut oil and made into a thick paste.  This is applied as a thin layer on affected areas of the skin.

Ashwagandha for Debility and Weakness

Regular intake of Ashwagandha churna helps improve old age weakness, brain fag, tiredness, spermatorrhea, loss of muscular energy etc.  Ashwagandha is very much helpful in patients suffering from chronic diseases like rheumatism, syphilis, and post-surgery recuperation etc.  It rebuilds the system that has been ravaged by the disease.  It is found to be very effective in treating retinopathy and conjunctivitis.  It is also recommended for treating uterine fibroids in women. 

Ashwagandha for Men and Women

Ashwagandha churna taken with honey and ghee in the prescribed format helps improve semen quality.  When taken regularly it helps overcome erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.  It boosts libido and heightens sexual experience while promoting a calm state of mind.  It also benefits the female reproductive system and increases weight of the ovaries.

Ashwagandha and Cancer

Studies done in 2003 and 2007 have shown that ashwagandha is found to be beneficial in inhibiting the growth and spread of breast, lungs and colon cancers.

Ashwagandha an Excellent Anti-oxidant

Ashwagandha neutralizes and eliminates free radicals in our body’s immune system.  It is these free radicals that wreak havoc and cause breakdown of tissues which leads to rapid aging.  Lactating mothers can improve their breast milk’s nutritive quality with consumption of ashwagandha tablets.

Ashwagandha for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease

Ashwagandha is found to enhance memory and stabilize mood.  It improves the capacity to learn.  Further research in this direction is ongoing.

Though not many studies have been conducted with regard to bipolar disorders, a very limited study has shown promise in the mood stabilizing capacity of ashwagandha.  Mood and anxiety score levels remained stable in the subjects during the period of intake of ashwagandha.  Ashwagandha also benefits people with ADHD and ADD disorders.

The health benefits of ashwagandha are well known in the Ayurvedic world for thousands of years.  It has been used to treat a range of disease conditions.

Ashwagandha Dosage

There no recommended dosage of ashwagandha but it is safe to take 3 to 6 gm a day.  For better results fresh ashwagandha powder should be used, preferably organically grown.  Due to the increase in demand for the herb, commercial cultivation has gone up considerably.  Hence it is wise to look out for organically grown ashwagandha to reap full benefits of the herb.

How to take Ashwagandha Churna?

The term churna means powder and Ashwagandha can be taken in powder, tablet or capsule form. 

Side Effects of Ashwagandha Root Powder

Caution should be exercised when taking Ashwagandha along with barbiturates or sleep inducing compounds.  It is advised not to take Ashwagandha in such conditions.  Similarly, consumption of Ashwagandha when under the influence of alcohol is not advised.  No toxic effects were noted on regular ashwagandha root powder dosage of up to 6 gm per day.  Excessive consumption of the herb can cause stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea.  It has a tendency to induce abortion in women, hence pregnant women should desist from taking this herb.

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Benefits of Oil Massage and Oil Treatment

It has been age old practice in South India to apply oil to the whole body with a gentle massage followed by warm water bath. For women, this is to be observed on Fridays and for men Saturdays.

A recent study by Dr K. N. Agarwal of Delhi has shown the health benefits of oil massage on 6 week old infants. The study concluded that sesame oil as the most beneficial of all other oils. Oil massage also helps in increased secretion of thyroid and insulin.

South India is a hot region with very high temperatures during the summer. Rapid deforestation, depletion of underground water, environmental pollution etc add to the woe. The Siddha saints regard human body as a microcosm that reflects the larger Universe. When the earth gets polluted due to the reasons mentioned above, a corresponding disharmony sets in, in the human body too. This is there for all of us to see. The nature strikes back with vengeance; natural calamities and epidemics like H1N1 are on the rise. The three doshas, vata, pitta and kapha get vitiated. Oil massage and bath once a week will help pacify the vitiated doshas to a large extent.

This way of bathing benefits human body and mind immensely. The skin is able to maintain its sheen and luster. The muscles get strengthened. There is improved blood circulation. Oil massage relaxes the body and energizes it. There is a sense of complete relaxation. When the muscles and joints are massaged, the body fluids stagnant at these points move on and toxins if any get eliminated. A relaxing oil massage and bath once a week will keep you energized and alert throughout the week.

Sesame oil, coconut oil and castor oil can be used for this purpose. Take sesame oil and coconut oil in equal quantities. Castor oil of one third volume is added to this mixture. Drop a few pepper corns, betel leaves, a pinch of camphor to this mixture and heat it to a bearable level.

Apply this warm oil all over the body. This should be done ideally in the mornings. Allow this oil to soak into your body for 20 to 30 minutes. Use warm water for bathing. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil, or eucalyptus leaves to the warm water meant for bathing.

You can also use massage oils available in the market. These oils are made by adding basil leaves, clove, jasmine, sandalwood etc. They give out a very nice, relaxing aroma.

Abhyanga snan is observed on Deepavali day. It is a full body massage with oil followed by a ritual bathing.

You can wash away this oil using soap nut powder or handmade soaps. Handmade soaps do not contain chemicals that could harm the skin in the long run. They retain skin moisture. I will share some more benefits and tips on oil massage in subsequent posts.

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Ayurvedic Hair Care - Part 6

Home remedy for dark and thick black hair

Ingredients

Hibiscus (Shoe flower) the dark red ones 20 nos

Coconut oil 200 ml

Method

Heat the coconut oil and when it nears the boiling point, drop the shoe flowers with the stalk into the oil. As soon as the flowers are dropped remove the coconut oil from heat and allow it to cool. Strain out the flowers and store the oil in a bottle in a cool place. Apply this oil to your hair everyday for healthy hair growth.

Fenugreek remedy for arresting hair loss

Method

A handful of fenugreek seeds are soaked in water the previous night. The fenugreek is ground to a fine paste the next day morning. This paste is then applied to the hair roots. Allow the paste to stay for 5-10 minutes and then wash it off. Regular application will stop hair loss and will help healthy hair growth.

Home remedy for premature grey hair

Ingredients

White karisalankanni plant

Coconut oil or sesame oil

Method

Take a small whole white karisalankanni plant and pound it thoroughly. Make a fine paste of the pounded plant using a mixer. Make dime-sized tablets out of the paste and dry them in shade for a couple days. Once thoroughly dried, store these tablets in a bottle. Soak a couple of these tablets for two days in either coconut oil or sesame oil 50 ml as and when needed. This oil is applied on hair to treat premature greying of hair. For good results regular application for at least 2-3 months is recommended.

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Ayurvedic Hair Care - Part 5

If there are cuts or grazes on skin you can use usilam powder obtained from usilam tree leaves. This powder can be used instead of soap during the Friday/Saturday bath.

In case of skin conditions like scabies or eczema, iluppai oil cake obtained from Indian Butter tree can be an alternative for the usual soap.

Shikkakai powder or boondhi kottai powder can be used for cleaning if you are using herbal oil.

For those using cow’s ghee, green gram powder can be used for cleaning.

The Don’ts

On the day of this special weekly bath you have to observe the following dietary restrictions. You should not have vegetables like ash gourd, snake gourd, bottle gourd and milk. Salt, sour and pungent tasting foods should be reduced to the minimum. No daytime nap and no sex on those days.

The vegetables to be avoided are

• Ash gourd

• Brinjal or eggplant

• Pumpkin

• Cluster beans

• Mango

• Coconut

• Bottle gourd

• Bitter gourd

Onions should not be taken. Green gram, mustard, fennel seeds, sesame, groundnut, palm candy, milk, curds, tobacco, crab, fish, chicken, mutton, pork etc should be avoided.

Avoid alcohol and all other such products that induce an altered state of mind. You should not loiter around in hot sun after this bath.

The Do’s

You can have

• Tender broad beans

• Tender drumstick

• Tender brinjal

• Tender mango

• Indian gooseberries

• Sundakkai (Devil’s fig)

• Manathakkali (Black Nightshade)

• Pepper

• Cumin seeds

• Fenugreek

• Cardamom

• Asafetida

• Fried salt

• Cow’s ghee

As for non-vegetarian stuff you can take quail or iguana in moderation.

Adopting these dietary restrictions on Friday/Saturday bath can help fast and natural hair growth. Some more hair growth products will be detailed in my subsequent posts.

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