The wonders of Triphala: Three-herb therapy for irritable bowel syndrome

2010
By Syed Akbar
Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS for short is indeed a great health nuisance. IBS is characterized by abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, constipation, and often lack of control over one’s bowels. It causes lot of trouble particularly when one is travelling. It is medically yet not known what actually causes irritable bowel syndrome. But Ayurveda has a unique herbal formulation of three plants which greatly reduces the discomfort and the problems associated with IBS.
Triphala, heralded by Ayurveda experts as a great herbal formulation, is the best natural remedy for IBS. Triphala as the name suggests is a combination of three herbs or fruits. In Ayurvedic contest Triphala meansa combination of Emblica officinalis, Terminalia bellirica and Terminalia chebula. Regular intake of Triphala either in powder form or in tablets or capsules readily available in market will solve the problem of IBS to a great extent. But as is the case with any herbal formulation, Triphala takes sufficiently long time to act on the digestive system to give the much-needed results. One has to continue the dosage for a reasonable time to get rid of IBS.
Besides IBS, Triphala has been found to a good blood purifier and as a laxative. It promotes good colon health, reduces weight, fights ulcers and prevents cancerous growths. Triphala controls gas formation in the digestive system and solves the problem of flatulence associated with IBS. Ayurvedic doctors prescribe Triphala for hypertension too.
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Quick Remedies
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Students who are dull in studies may try Triphala formulations to sharpen their memory. Regular intake of a teaspoon of Triphala powder acts on the brain stimulates the nervous system and increases one’s memory power.
Triphala tea is often prescribed by Ayurvedic doctors as a general body toner to improve one’s health. Triphala tea powder is available in the market. Follow the guidelines of the manufacturer while preparing the Triphala tea at home.
Those suffering from dental decay and cavities may try Triphala mouth wash. Take a little quantity of Triphala powder, mix it with warm water and gargle it as a mouth wash.
Ayurveda practitioners prescribe Triphala powder (teaspoon) or tablets twice daily for IBS patients. It has to be taken after the meal.