TriphalaTriphalā
Triphala (Amalaki + Haritaki + Vibhitaki) is the most quoted Ayurvedic remedy for chronic constipation and is taken nightly to keep agni and elimination regular.
- Common name
- Triphala
- Sanskrit (IAST)
- Triphalā
- Latin botanical
- Three-fruit formula
- Form
- Herb / Powder (Choorna)
- Category tags
- DigestionCleansing · Tridoshic
Triphala for constipation
Start with ¼ tsp powder in warm water at bedtime and build to ½–1 tsp. It works as an anulomana (gentle downward mover) rather than a purgative, so it can be taken nightly for weeks. Avoid in pregnancy, active diarrhoea or IBS flare, and stop two weeks before scheduled surgery.
Overview & dosha effects
Balances all three doshas — the classical tridoshic rasayana.
Traditional uses
The following are traditional Ayurvedic uses documented in classical texts and modern materia medica — not therapeutic claims for the treatment of disease.
How it is taken
1/2 to 1 tsp powder in warm water at bedtime, or 2 tablets before sleep.
Classical text references
- [1]Aṣṭāṅga HṛdayamSūtrasthāna 6.166–170
Formulation of Āmalakī, Harītakī and Bibhītakī described for daily use.
- [2]Charaka SaṃhitāCikitsāsthāna 1.3
Referenced among premier rasāyanas.
- [3]Bhāvaprakāśa NighaṇṭuHarītakyādi Varga
Individual dravya profiles of all three fruits.
Modern research
Contemporary clinical and pharmacological reviews (see references) explore Triphala's role in the areas where Ayurveda has traditionally used it. Evidence quality varies; treat single studies with caution and prefer systematic reviews.
Safety notes — read before use
As with all traditional herbs, avoid in active flare-ups of the condition you're treating and in anyone with a known allergy to the plant family. Stop and seek medical advice if you develop rash, breathing changes, swelling, digestive upset or any new symptom after starting.
- ✕Pregnancy — Haritaki is contraindicated; can stimulate downward movement
- ✕Active diarrhea, dysentery, or IBS flare
- ✕Severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance
- ✕Ulcerative colitis flare
- ✕Two weeks before surgery — Amalaki has mild antiplatelet effect
Do not use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding without direct supervision by a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner and your GP or obstetrician. Many Ayurvedic herbs have not been studied in pregnancy and traditional cautions apply.
May interact with prescription medications — especially blood thinners, blood pressure and diabetes medications, sedatives, thyroid hormones, immunosuppressants and drugs metabolised by the liver. Always share a complete list of herbs and supplements with your doctor and pharmacist.
Specific to Triphala: May cause cramping, gas, or loose stools when first started. Start at 1/4 tsp.
Amalaki (Indian gooseberry) is in the Phyllanthaceae family. Vitamin C content can trigger reactions in those with severe citrus or berry hypersensitivity.
This is educational information, not a prescription. Consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner (vaidya) and your GP before starting any herb, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, under 18, over 65, take prescription medication, have a chronic condition or are scheduled for surgery.
Classical alternatives
For pregnancy or Vata-depleted constitutions needing gentle bowel support, use soaked raisins, prunes, or warm castor oil under guidance instead.
References
- [1]Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdayam, Sūtrasthāna 6.166–170 — Formulation of Āmalakī, Harītakī and Bibhītakī described for daily use.
- [2]Charaka Saṃhitā, Cikitsāsthāna 1.3 — Referenced among premier rasāyanas.
- [3]Bhāvaprakāśa Nighaṇṭu, Harītakyādi Varga — Individual dravya profiles of all three fruits.
- [4]PubMed · Triphala therapeutic review ↗
- [5]Banyan Botanicals · Triphala ↗
- [6]Bhavaprakasha Nighantu (Wisdomlib) ↗
