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Triphala ("three fruits"), an herbal formulation originating in India, has been found to act as a complete body cleanser. Not only does Triphala help to detoxify and cleanse the colon, it also purifies the blood and removes toxins from the liver. Other cleansing benefits of Triphala include reducing some forms of cholesterol (serum cholesterol), and reduces high blood pressure.

Triphala is made from the fruits of three trees that grow in India and the Middle East (Sanskrit term triphala literally means ‘”three fruits”). The fruits are dried, ground into powder, and blended in a precise manner developed by the ancient herbalists. The herbs that comprise triphala have potent healing properties:

Amalaki (Amla, Indian gooseberry, emblica officinalis) is considered one of the best rejuvenating herbs in Ayurveda. It’s a strong natural antioxidant containing 20 times more vitamin C than orange juice. In India, amalaki is known as the “nurse herb” because it strengthens the immune system and cools the body.

Haritaki (Harada, terminalia chebula) has the strongest laxative powers of the three fruits contained in triphala. In Tibet, haritaki is so highly revered that in their sacred paintings, it’s often depicted in the extended palm of the medicine Buddha. The herb also has astringent properties.

Bibhitaki (Behada, terminalia belerica) is an excellent rejuvenative with both laxative and astringent properties. It eliminates excess mucous in the body and is a powerful treatment for a variety of lung conditions, including bronchitis and asthma.

Triphala gently cleanses and detoxifies the body without irritating the colon. In addition, unlike other laxatives that deplete the body, triphala actually strengthens and nourishes the bones, nervous system, and reproductive organs. In recent years, a number of research studies have found new uses for this herb, including treatment for various forms of cancer. It is also found to have high antioxidant qualities, and is even useful for treatment against noise and stress induced conditions.

Possible benefits of Triphala:

• Feel pure, light and revitalized
• Remove toxins, accumulations, gas and distention
• Nourish your nervous system, blood and muscle
• Increase digestion, assimilation and reduce fat
• Detoxify every system in the body
• Regulate and vitalize your metabolism

Triphala is taken as a general health tonic, useful for all body types and a variety of conditions. It is commonly recommended to tone and strengthen the digestive system, particularly in cases of weak digestion and constipation. Triphala is a gentle laxative that can be used daily and is not habit-forming, and has no adverse effects on the intestinal flora (the microorganisms that aid digestion). It is said to improve the function of the stomach and intestines, and is also useful for cases of excess stomach acid. Triphala regulates and detoxifies the bowels, improves overall health by increasing the efficiency and absorption of digestion, and reduces gas. It has a balancing effect on the body's metabolism, and is prescribed to restore appetite. The herbal compound also helps the body to eliminate excess fat, by improving metabolism. Because of its gentle properties, triphala is recommended as a digestive aid for the elderly and for those with sensitive stomachs.

In addition to restoring the balance of the digestive tract, triphala is used as a blood builder and purifier, and may increase red blood cell count and hemoglobin levels. Some healers prescribe it for diabetes, for its balancing effect on blood sugar levels. It also has anti-cholesterol and anti-mucus properties in the body. Triphala is believed to strengthen the kidneys and liver, and can be helpful for hepatitis sufferers.

Triphala has a strong taste. It is recommended to drink it with juice or to place honey on the tongue before swallowing. It is often possible to find Triphala in pill form however, the powdered form is much more effective and can be mixed thoroughly in a small amount of cold or warm water or simmered in water and drunk as a medicinal tea. When used as a digestive tonic or laxative, it is best taken in the evening, about two hours after eating, and at least 30 minutes before bedtime. No food should be eaten for one and a half hours after ingestion.

Suggested Use: Start with a 1/4 teaspoon twice daily and gradually increase the amount until finding the optimal dosage. Usually it should not be necessary to take more than one teaspoon at a time.