Triphala in Ayurveda: Dosha Balance, Tridoshic Action, and Beyond

Triphala in Ayurveda Dosha Balance, Tridoshic Action, and Beyond

Triphala has been described in the ancient Ayurvedic text as a Tridoshic Rasayana, a therapeutic agent with balancing and rejuvenating effects on the three humours or  constitutional  elements in  Ayurveda vata,  pitta and kapha. Its ability to harmonize the body’s energies while detoxifying, rejuvenating, and nourishing makes it one of the most widely used and studied Ayurvedic remedies.

What is Triphala

Triphala is a traditional Ayurvedic herbal formulation made from three fruits. The name “Triphala” literally means “three fruits” in Sanskrit. Composed of three potent fruits—Amla (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), and Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica).

“हरितकी बिभीतकी आमलकी नाम त्रयाणां फलानां समः भागः।

युक्तं त्रिफला इति प्रोक्ता रसायनानि च॥”Sharangadhara Samhita – Madhyama Khanda – Chapter 7/19

Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki — when taken in equal parts — together are known as Triphala, which is also considered a Rasayana (rejuvenative formulation).

Properties of Triphala-

GUN-Laghu, Ruksh

RAS-Panch ras ,kashay predomnant

VIRYA-Ushana

VIPAK-Madhura

PRABHAV-Tridoshahar

1. Amla (Amalaki) – The Pitta Pacifier

Amla (Amalaki) – The Pitta Pacifier

Rasa (Taste): Amla is dominantly sour, with sweet and astringent undertones.
Action: Cools and rejuvenates, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
Dosha Effect: Pacifies Pitta while also supporting Kapha and Vata when used in synergy.

2. Haritaki – The Vata Balancer

Haritaki – The Vata Balancer
Rasa: Bitter, astringent, pungent, sweet, sour, and salty – all six tastes.
Action: Mild laxative, digestive enhancer, and rejuvenative.
Dosha Effect: Primarily balances Vata, strengthens nervous and digestive systems.

3. Bibhitaki – The Kapha Reducer

Bibhitaki – The Kapha Reducer

Rasa: Astringent and slightly sweet.
Action: Detoxifying, clears excess mucus, improves respiratory and metabolic function.
Dosha Effect: Reduces Kapha, also helpful in maintaining Pitta-Vata equilibrium.

Key Benefits of Triphala-

Key Benefits of Triphala-

Digestive Health Booster-Acts as a mild laxative, especially helpful in constipation, Improves digestion, supports appetite, and regulates bowel movements.

Natural Detoxifier – Gently cleanses or detoxify  the liver.Removes ama (toxins) from the body.

Rich in Antioxidants-contains Vitamin C and powerful polyphenols.Protects cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage.Helps delay aging and supports cellular regeneration.

Rasayana (Rejuvenative)-Supports longevity, vitality, and overall well-being,promotes immune strength (Ojas).

Eye Health-Traditionally used to maintain vision clarity and treat eye disorders,triphala water eye wash is helpful for maintaining eye heath and vision.

Weight Management-Regulates metabolism and fat digestion.

Oral & Skin Health-Gargling with Triphala decoction helps in gum problems, bad breath, and mouth ulcers.Used externally in skin infections, acne, and wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Vaginal Infection and UTI-Triphala has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound-healing properties, so triphala water wash is used for UTIs and vaginal infection.

Ayurvedic Reference Of Triphala Importance-

“त्रिफला त्रिदोषघ्नी दीप्ताग्नि रसायनी।

चक्षुष्या विषमुदर्दं मेहकण्ड्वादिनां हरा॥”

Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, 7/105)

Triphala is:
Tridoshaghni – Balancer of all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha)
Deeptagni – Kindles the digestive fire
Rasayani – Acts as a rejuvenative (promotes health and longevity)
Chakshushya – Beneficial for the eyes and vision
Helpful in:
Visha – Detoxifying poisons
Udarda – Skin diseases like urticaria
Meha – Urinary disorders including diabetes
Kandu – Itching and related skin conditions

त्रिफलं रसायनं बल्यं चक्षुष्यं वयःस्थापनम् |त्रिदोषघ्नं च सततं रोगहरं महाफलम् ||Bhavaprakasa Nighantu

Triphala is:
A Rasayana (rejuvenative)
Balya (strength-promoting)
Chakshushya (good for the eyes)

Vayah-sthapanam (anti-aging)
Tridoshaghna (balances all three doshas)
Rogahara (disease-alleviating)
And truly a Mahaphala (great fruit / powerful remedy)

Classical Yogas (formulations) of Triphala-

Triphala Churna

Triphala Ghrita

Triphala Rasayana 

Triphala Kashaya

Saptamrita Lauh

Conclusion-

Triphala stands as a timeless Ayurvedic blend with immense healing potential. Its tridoshic nature, gentle detoxifying action, and ability to support every system of the body—from digestion to immunity—make it a staple for daily wellness. Incorporating Triphala into your routine is not just a remedy; it’s a step toward long-term health and harmony.

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