Triphala powder is one of the most popular herbal formulas used in ayurvedic medicine, which is a type of alternative medicine. Its most common use is as a digestive aid, but it also helps to cleanse different parts of the body, such as the blood or liver. Triphala powder consists of a mixture of three herbs: Amla, Baheda and Harada.
Ayurvedia
Ayurvedic medicine is a branch of complimentary and alternative medicine (CAM) that originated thousands of years ago in India. Ayurvedic medicine maintains that balance among the humors in the body can promote proper health and can assist in avoiding illness. In order to achieve this balance, practitioners of Ayurvedia suggest the use of certain Indian herbs, massage of specific areas and carefully chosen diets. Triphala powder is one herbal mixture that is suggested by those who are well-versed in ayurvedia.
Components
The name "Triphala" means "three fruits," because there are three components of Triphala powder: Amla, Baheda and Harada. Amla comes from the fruit of a tree that is native to India, and it is a rich source of vitamin C. Baheda comes from a bitter fruit, but contains plenty of vitamin A, protein and omega 3 fatty acid. Harada is known as "the Tibetan king of medicine," and it is famous as a tonic for the heart and brain, as well as for long life. Each of these ingredients alone is touted for its medicinal properties in various areas, including anemia, eye problems, sinus allergies and asthmatic symptoms.
Primary Use
The primary use of triphala powder is as a regulator of the digestive system. Although each of the three components of triphala powder is known to impact the digestive system, the combination is supposedly especially potent. Triphala powder acts as a laxative, which cleans out the body, ridding it from wastes. It then helps to maintain the body's natural balance, which leads to a healthier life.
Secondary Uses
Although triphala powder is primarily used to aid digestion, it is also suggested to improve circulation, lower blood pressure, improve liver function and aid in weight loss. It is touted as having properties that fight bad bacteria, viruses, allergies, other mutagens and even cancer. Some hardcore ayurvedia users view it as a panacea that can cure all ills.
Indian Attitude Toward Triphala Powder
Although triphala powder can be used merely as a laxative, Ayurvedic doctors in India view it as much more than that. They prescribe it to help with a myriad of health problems. As a popular saying in India goes, "No mother? No need to worry if you have triphala." They say this because they believe that triphala powder cleanses the organs just as a mother bathes her child.
Tags: Triphala powder, alternative medicine, Although triphala, Although triphala powder, Amla Baheda, Amla Baheda Harada