The Full-Body Benefits of Triphala Powder

January 13, 2022

What is triphala?

Triphala is a powdered mix of three berries, the combined benefits of which are said to be more potent than when used individually. The berries come from the medicinal plants Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, and Terminalia belerica – commonly referred to as amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki. This combination has been used in Ayurveda, the traditional medical system of India, for over 1000 years according to the foundational texts of this practice.¹

What are the uses and benefits of triphala?

Traditionally, triphala has been used to promote efficient digestion, absorption, elimination, and rejuvenation, though the original texts cite many more benefits and uses for this powder.¹ Modern and preclinical studies conducted on the herb more specifically report antibacterial, anticancer, antiobesity, antiarthritic, anti-inflammatory and hypolipidemic (fat-reducing) properties.² Results from preclinical studies suggest it may also protect against intestinal damage, colitis, and kidney toxicity.²

How can this powder have so many applications and benefits? Analysis of the compounds in triphala shows many healthful plant compounds, like polyphenols and flavonoids, that are thought to be responsible for many of its beneficial effects on different organs and tissues throughout the body. Gallic acid, for example, is a major polyphenol that has antioxidant and immunomodulatory (stimulates or suppresses the immune system) properties.²

Digestive Health

Studies have demonstrated plant substances found in triphala decrease bad gut bacteria while increasing good gut microbes.³ Other research has suggested triphala can improve gastrointestinal symptoms and irritable bowel syndrome.⁴

Stress Reduction

Animal studies have shown triphala’s ability to protect against the effects of stress, namely metabolic and hormonal changes that occur in the face of stressors.⁵

Anti-Aging

An in-vitro study of human skin cells found collagen- and elastin-boosting effects of triphala, while another found it stops enzymes that breakdown collagen and hyaluronic acid.^6,7

Fat and Blood Glucose Support

Animal studies, and more recently human studies, suggest triphala may decrease body fat while also decreasing fasting blood sugar levels.⁸ These effects might be attributed to the ability of the plant compounds in triphala that inhibit the absorption of excess glucose while allowing cells to take up a necessary amount of glucose without stimulating fat cells to grow.^9,10

Oral Health

Emerging science suggests that triphala’s antibacterial properties may help control levels of bacteria in the mouth when used as a mouthwash.¹¹ Data also suggest that triphala may help reduce oral plaque and gingivitis. ¹²

How and when to take triphala

How to take triphala and best times to take triphala

It is best to take triphala on an empty stomach or between meals. This can be taken as a capsule or as a powder that is mixed in liquid. Powder is preferred as the dose can be better controlled. Large doses of triphala can be a strong stimulator of the digestive system and cause diarrhea, so you should start with a small triphala dosage, as low as 500 mg. If taking lower doses and no adverse reactions occur, you can work your way up to 5 grams if tolerated well.

Who shouldn’t take Triphala? Triphala Side Effects and Safety and Considerations

While many people find that triphala has a gentle effect and does not cause adverse reactions, you should proceed with the same caution that you would take if starting any new supplement. If you are taking CYP substrate drugs, you should not take triphala without consulting your healthcare provider as triphala may increase the risk of side effects from this kind of medication.² People taking blood thinners or at risk for bleeding disorders should also consult a healthcare professional before taking triphala. Triphala is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women and should not be administered to children.

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