Ingredient profile
Haritaki
Terminalia chebula
One of the three fruits of Triphala, traditionally used to support regular digestion.
- Hindi
- हरड़
- Sanskrit
- Haritaki
- Family
- Combretaceae
- Part used
- fruit
Traditional use
Haritaki is a large tree whose olive-like fruits ripen to yellow-brown. Dried, they become hard and wrinkled. It is one of the most revered fruits in Ayurveda.
In Ayurvedic tradition
Often called the “king of medicines” in Ayurvedic tradition, haritaki is one of the three fruits of Triphala and is traditionally taken to support regular digestion and overall wellbeing.
Ayurvedic properties
- Rasa (taste): Astringent (with five of the six tastes)
- Guna (qualities): Light, dry
- Virya (potency): Heating
- Vipaka (post-digestive effect): Sweet
- Effect on the doshas: Balances all three doshas, especially vata
How it is traditionally taken
The dried fruit is powdered and taken with warm water, usually in the evening, alone or as Triphala.
Safety notes
Not traditionally used during pregnancy, or by people who are exhausted or dehydrated. Use as directed on the product label. This profile is for general education and is not medical advice.
References
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (monograph: Haritaki) pharmacopoeia