Triphala is the most popular ayurvedic formula in the world, and worth trying if you are interested in yoga, meditation, natural medicine or vegetarianism.
Triphala is a combination made from three fruits (tri = three; phala = fruits) which acts to gently cleanses and detoxifies the liver, blood, colon and digestive system without depleting or weakening the body. Triphala is non-habit forming and actually strengthens and tones the colon.
Benefits of Triphala:
Assists in gentle and natural internal cleansing
Maintains the balance of the three doshas
Improves digestion and the assimilation of nutrients
Effective blood purifier; improves liver function
Gently maintains bowel regularity
Improves circulation; reduces acne or skin eruptions
Nourishes and rejuvenates the tissues of the body
Reduces excess body weight
Reduces high blood pressure ; lowers serum cholesterol
Anti-inflammatory and anti-viral
Boosts immune system and fights infections
Natural anti-oxidant
Contra-Indications
Do not take triphala in the case of pregnancy, breast-feeding, diarrhea or dysentery. There are no known drug interactions with the herbs that make up triphala, although some studies do report findings that would advise caution in people taking blood-thinning medicines. Taking triphala on an empty stomach may cause nausea.
How to Take Triphala
BY TABLET : Triphala tablets are the most convenient (although slightly more expensive) way to take triphala. Take 2-3 tablets 1-3 times a day. This is the most convenient way, but it does not have the healing benefits of taste.
DRY POWDER: Before bed, place 1 teaspoon of triphala powder on the back of your tongue and chase with a cup of warm water, 1-2 hours after a meal. Alternatively, you can stir the powder into the warm water and drink.
AS AN INFUSION: Stir one teaspoon of triphala powder into a large glass of water. Leave out overnight and drink first thing in the morning, leaving the sediment at the bottom of the glass. Refill the glass with water and stir again. In the evening before bed, drink the entire glass of water, leaving the sediment at the bottom. Rise the cup and refill for the following morning..
For a laxative effect, a larger dose can be taken with warm water (ie. 2-3 teaspoons before bed).
Where to Buy
Triphala powder is widely available at health food stores, in the natural food section at Winners, as well as online.
References
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A,, N.D.
Banyan Botanicals : Certified Organic Triphala : A Balancing Formula for Detoxification and Rejuvenation
The Yoga of Herbs, Dr. David Frawley and Dr. Vasant Lad