Triphala is a mysterious, almost miraculous, blend that has endured as Ayurveda’s most widely used herbal formula. Most commonly, it is recommended to maintain regular bowel movements and support a healthy digestive system-which it does! But there is much more to the powers of triphala. The classic combination of these three fruits (amalaki, haritaki, and bibhitaki) is said to be supportive for a thousand human health challenges! And because triphala is one of the most ancient of Ayurvedic remedies, it has been prepared in a myriad of ways over the last several thousand years. As you’ll see, triphala is useful in situations you may have never imagined. Here are a few of our favorite ways to use triphala.
A Gentle Daily Detox.
Triphala encourages all the tissues of the body to release the ama, or natural toxins, that are being held. The triphala then directs the ama to the digestive tract and carries it all the way through the process of elimination. A daily dose of triphala is an easy way to maintain regular detoxification and a healthy system.
In Ayurveda, the secret to healthy nails, strong bones, and thick hair actually lies in the colon! The colon is one of the last stages of the digestive and elimination processes, and when things aren’t going right, waste can begin to accumulate in the colon and create ama. This coating of toxins prevents the absorption and assimilation of essential food nutrients, and the nails, bones, and hair end up not receiving the nutrition they need to thrive. When triphala is taken on a regular basis, complete and regular bowel movements become the norm, and the colon is able to receive all the nutrients and nourishment needed for vibrant health and radiant beauty. An Ally During Allergy Season.
Ayurveda says that allergies are caused by one of the doshas becoming aggravated by a particular substance (the allergen). Triphala is perfectly suited to support a healthy allergy response because it effectively balances all three doshas. While there are many different types of allergies, triphala can help the body’s natural immune response when it encounters the aggravating allergen. Take 1–2 tablets of triphala, or drink a tea made with ½ teaspoon triphala powder steeped in hot water each night approximately 1 hour before bed to support the body’s natural immune response—especially during allergy season!
A Whole-Body Tonic.
Triphala is one of the most incredible substances in Ayurveda, partly because it has a fascinating prabhav—an unexpected effect. It is commonly known that triphala cleanses and detoxifies, but it’s the post-digestive effect that is not as widely recognized. Once triphala has done its work in the body and made its way through the digestive system, it leaves the tissues not only cleansed, but also nourished, toned, and rejuvenated. The three fruits of triphala all target different systems in the body, and together they create a synergistic formula that
