Triphala
Sanskrit: Triphala
Phyllanthus emblica, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica
A classical Ayurvedic formulation of three fruits, traditionally taken at night to support regularity and gentle renewal.
Also known as
Three fruits · Triphala churna
- hindi:
- Triphala
- tamil:
- Thiriphala
Key components
- Amla (Emblica officinalis) fruit
- Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) fruit
- Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica) fruit
Traditional overview
- Traditionally taken as a powder with warm water at night
- Used as an eye-wash decoction in classical practice
- Part of many classical rejuvenative routines
Common traditional forms
- powder
- tablet
- decoction
Wellness tags
- digestion
- bowel regularity
- rejuvenation
Body focus
- intestines
- colon
- eyes
Concerns
- irregular bowels
- sluggish digestion
What to know before use
A three-fruit classical combination rather than a single herb, and a concentrated preparation rather than a food. It has a laxative tendency, so it is unsuitable in pregnancy and breastfeeding, for children, and in dehydration, diarrhoea, bowel disease or unexplained bowel changes. It can reduce absorption of medicines taken at the same time — space them apart. Persistent constipation needs assessment rather than indefinite use.
Important cautions
A formulation rather than a single herb; best used with practitioner guidance.
Who should avoid it
- People with loose motions or diarrhoea
- People with inflammatory bowel conditions unless advised
Medicine interactions
- May affect absorption of other medicines taken at the same time
PregnancyTraditionally avoided in pregnancy.
ChildrenNot recommended for young children without practitioner guidance.
Quality and buying guidance
Proportions differ between manufacturers, so follow the licensed product label rather than a generic amount. Choose a batch-numbered, expiry-dated product that names all three fruits and, ideally, publishes heavy-metal testing. Powder should be tan and cleanly astringent; tablets should not smell rancid. Store airtight away from moisture.
What does the evidence say?
This is used mainly within qualified practitioner practice and classical formulations. Self-directed use is not appropriate, and evidence outside traditional texts is limited.
Related ingredients
Traditional wellness information only — not medical advice. Start small, and check with a qualified practitioner if you are pregnant, nursing, treating a child, or managing a medical condition.