Triphala, an Ayurvedic drug from India, as the name suggests is a blend of three herbs namely emblica officinalis, terminalia chebula and terminalia belerica. It is indeed a miracle drug either taken as a capsule or in powder form with water or milk due to its widely accepted medicinal values. Since yore, triphala has been extensively used in curing ailments in Ayurveda, however, in the recent times, people world over have started turning to it for permanent cure of a multiple anomalies ranging from colon and intestinal malfunctions, weight management, blood purification, respiratory problems like asthma to even certain eye defects such as glaucoma and progressive myopia. Triphala benefits the entire body holistically due to the combined effects of its individual constituents. Besides being an effective colon cleanser and weight balancer, it is equally effective for people suffering from jaundice, fevers, inflammations, ulcers, and also lung infections such as pneumonia. Extensive studies conducted on the effects of triphala have demonstrated the anti inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties of the drug due to the presence of polyphones and falconoid in its composition. Various experiments conducted on rats, however, not yet substantiated on humans, have evinced the hypolipidemic and anti mortality properties of triphala on obese and radiation induced rats respectively.
While new research is being undertaken to substantiate further health benefits of triphala in addition to the existing ones, routine use of the herb concoction has shown to have considerable positive effects in improving and in some cases completely curing the following health conditions:
Cleanses colon
Being a mild laxative, triphala is an effective herbal drug for cleaning the colon of all the toxins thereby directly improving the absorption of food by breaking down complex food particles. It stimulates the peristallic action of the intestinal lining and assists in the free movement of the food particles besides helping in getting rid of intestinal parasites, flatulence, constipation, bad breath and colon cancer. Triphala’s role as a natural detoxifier cannot be contested in this regard. Additionally, it also loosens the stool due to its laxative properties and thus serves as an apt drug for the cleansing of the complete digestive and excretory system.
Works as a blood purifier
Since triphala is a natural astringent, it purifies the blood by rendering the constituent harmful micro organisms and pathogens inactive. It regulates blood density and keeps a check on cholesterol deposition in the arteries and heart. It plays a major role in maintaining the normal blood pressure and deterring plaque formation in the arteries, a typical symptom of arteriosclerosis, thereby keeping cardiovascular diseases at bay.
Effective in weight management
Overeating is the main cause of disrupted digestion and obesity. Studies indicate that triphala when bonded with the satiety hormone, cholecystokinin sends a signal of being full to the body. It thus, reduces the desire of the individual to overeat. Since triphala also regulates normal functioning of the liver, facilitates better absorption of nutrients and plays a vital role in effective bowel movement; it is a brilliant way to stay healthy and fit by keeping weight under check. Studies also reveal the role of triphala in stimulating liver and pancreas to help produce bile juices that metabolize fat cells and affect weight loss.
A cure for diabetes mellitus
Since triphala directly stimulates pancreas which in turn secretes insulin, it maintains healthy glucose levels in the body. Major studies have been conducted on the advantages of triphala, particularly on people suffering with diabetes mellitus. One such study by the American Botanical Council showed the miraculous effect of the drug in bettering the condition of diabetic rats. Although the exact cause is unknown yet, it is seen that administration of triphala to people suffering from diabetes mellitus reduces their insulin resistance and thus eases the condition. Additionally, the bitter taste of the herbal mixture is equally effective in curing hyperglycemia.
Enhances immunity
The effect of this wonder botanical herb has been extensively studied in meliorating the immune system of the human body. Triphala, as an anti oxidant, regularizes cell metabolism and subsequently curbs the production of free radicals responsible for the aging process. Besides arresting aging, it also stimulates the cell’s mitochondria, golgi bodies and nucleus. Since it maintains the overall health of the cell, it thus plays a pivotal role in the proper functioning of the body as a whole. Triphala also arrests invasion of foreign bodies such as pathogens and other infections in the blood thus curbing skin diseases.
An excellent remedy for eye disorders
Triphala has shown to have positive effect in curing certain eye disorders such as progressive myopia, glaucoma, cataract and conjunctivitis. Various studies conducted across the world also suggested that triphala is quite effective in strengthening eye muscles and vision to some extent as well.
Augments the RBC count
Studies have shown that consumption of triphala enhances the development of RBCs. Since RBCs are the sole carriers of oxygen in the blood, the improvement in their count positively affects the well being of the entire body.
Helps in balancing the energy chakras
Consumption of triphala on a regular basis has also shown positively impact on the 7 energy channels or chakras in the human body. A routine intake calms the body by cleansing the energy channels and toning the muscles. Additionally, it also enhances the development of lean muscles in the body.
Aids in physiological functions of the body
Together with the above, triphala is ingenious for the proper functioning of the endocrinal system. It regularizes the endocrinal secretions that maintain proper homeostasis in the body. This balanced secretion and homeostasis further aids in the efficient functioning of all the physiological processes in the body. Consumption of triphala not only promotes the physiological functions of the human body but also helps in rejuvenating the body as a whole. Additionally, triphala has shown encouraging results in curbing graying of hair due to the constituent amla or emblica officinalis.
