Actions and uses of Haritaki

Haritaki is amruta (nectar),a powerful rasayana (tissue rejuvenator). It is an anti-aging agent par excellence, a powerful immune-modulator and antioxidant. It helps the digestive system and is a powerful detoxicant. It has a mild laxative effect, it improves digestion, causes vata shaman and thus helps to restore the health of nervous system.

Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is a tree native to southern Asia and India. Sometimes referred to as chebulic myrobalan, the dried fruit of this tree has a long history of use in Ayurveda. It is said to support the Vata dosha and is one of three dried fruits that make up the Ayurvedic formula Triphala. People use haritaki to promote healing from a number of conditions ranging from sore throat and allergies to constipation and indigestion.

It is rich in vitamin C and substances found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In addition to its natural state, haritaki is also available in powder or dietary supplement form.

This dried fruit often termed as Chebulic myrobalan is one of the three musketeers that constitute the potent rejuvenative Triphala formulation. The holistic science of Ayurveda strongly advocates the uses of haritaki due to its potent laxative, astringent, purgative, anti-bilious and anti-oxidant properties for treating numerous health anomalies.

The myriad of beneficial properties of Haritaki include Jwaraghna (treats fever), Kashaghna (treats cough and cold symptoms), Virechnopaga (reduces purgation), Vayasthapana (reduces the ageing process), Grahi (treats diarrhoea), Chakshushya (improves vision), Shulahara (reduces pain), Deepana (enhances stomach fire), Pachana (helps in digestion), Rochana (stimulates appetite), Arshohara (treats piles), Kusthahara (treats skin disease) and Shothahara (reduces inflammation). Thanks to the umpteen powerful properties of haritaki, it holds high significance for treating diarrhoea, dysentery, vision problems, obesity, gingivitis, gout, asthma etc.

Locally known as: Harad/Hirada

Active Constituents: Gallotannins

Dosage: One capsule twice a day after food or as directed by physician.