Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
Medically Reviewed by Ayuveda Clinical Team (Lead Medical Reviewer: Dr. Nitin Mohite, BAMS, MBA • Medical Logic Developer, UK • Clinical Profile • LinkedIn).
About
Haritaki, known as the 'King of Medicines', is a revered herb in Ayurveda for its healing and rejuvenating properties, often used in the Triphala formulation.
Botanical name: Terminalia chebula. Also known as: Chebulic Myrobalan, Harad, Kadukkai, Karakkaya, Abhaya.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Anti-cancer
Dosage
3-6 grams daily
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Kashaya (astringent), Madhura (sweet), Tikta (bitter), Amla (sour), Katu (pungent)
- Virya: ["Ushna (heating)"]
- Vipaka: ["Madhura (sweet)"]
Benefits
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Anulomana (mild laxative)
- Rasayana (rejuvenative)
Traditional uses
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Cough
- Cold
- Anemia
- Skin diseases
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Dehydration
- Severe exhaustion
- Acute fever
Side effects
- Mild diarrhea
- Dehydration if overused
Interactions
- May increase effect of laxatives
Active compounds
- Hydrolysable tannins
- Chebulin
- Chebulagic acid
- Corilagin
Clinical evidence
Clinical trials show Haritaki improves digestion, alleviates anemia, and may help lower blood sugar levels.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Anulomana (mild laxative)
- Rasayana (rejuvenative)
Classical clinical indications
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Cough
- Cold
- Anemia
- Skin diseases
Frequently asked questions
What is Haritaki?
Haritaki, known as the 'King of Medicines', is a revered herb in Ayurveda for its healing and rejuvenating properties, often used in the Triphala formulation.
What are the benefits of Haritaki?
Deepana (appetizer). Pachana (digestive). Anulomana (mild laxative)
How is Haritaki used in Ayurveda?
Indigestion
Classical & Scientific References
- Classical monographs on Haritaki in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu and Dravyaguna Vijnana.
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
- Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana Ch. 4 — Dravyadi Sangrahaniya) & Sushruta Samhita.
Published by herbs.directory