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Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)

Ayurvedic 'king of medicines' (the Buddhist amrita), constituent of Triphala, preliminary modern evidence; broad traditional use.

Why

Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is one of the three constituents of Triphala (already in catalogue) and revered in both Ayurveda and Tibetan Buddhist medicine. Modern clinical evidence as a monoextract is limited; most signal is from Triphala combination work. Inclusion is for honest reference to the named herb.

How it works

Tannin and gallic acid content provides astringent and antioxidant effects. Mild laxative effect at higher doses via stimulation of gastric motility. Antibacterial activity documented in vitro.

Expected onset · Mild laxative effect within 24 hours; chronic effects not well-characterised

How to take

Dosage

Powder: 3–6 g/day. As part of Triphala: per Triphala dosing.

Timing

Once daily, evening typically

On the label

Terminalia chebula fruit powder, quality-tested. The fruit ripens through multiple colour stages; preparation tradition varies by intended use.

Ideal for

Adults using Triphala or interested in the constituent herbs of that formulation.

Safety

Mild laxative effect at higher doses. Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. May lower blood glucose. Heavy-metal contamination concerns with imported Ayurvedic products.

Evidence

At a glance

No regulator anchor as monoextract. Tradition-only, no Cochrane review, no EMA HMPC monograph, no EFSA-authorised claim, no major-journal RCT supports a specific therapeutic effect. Inclusion reflects documented historical use in the tradition; modern clinical evidence is limited. Modern evidence emerges via the Triphala combination.

Limitations

Tradition-only, no Cochrane review, no EMA HMPC monograph, no EFSA-authorised claim, no major-journal RCT supports a specific therapeutic effect. Inclusion reflects documented historical use in the tradition; modern clinical evidence is limited.

Where to get it

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