Triphala: the three fruits of Ayurveda

Triphala is one of the most widely used formulations in Ayurveda. Its name simply means “three fruits”. This guide explains what those fruits are, why Ayurveda combines them, and how Triphala is traditionally taken.

The three fruits

Amla (Amalaki)

Indian gooseberry, Phyllanthus emblica. A small, sour, pale-green fruit and one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C. Ayurveda describes it as cooling.

Haritaki

Terminalia chebula. A wrinkled, olive-shaped fruit, revered in Ayurveda and sometimes called the king of medicines. It is described as warming.

Bibhitaki

Terminalia bellirica. A round, greyish fruit, traditionally associated with balancing kapha and supporting the respiratory system.

Why combine them?

Ayurveda often combines ingredients so that their qualities balance one another. Each of the three fruits is associated with one of the doshas: amla with pitta, haritaki with vata and bibhitaki with kapha. Together they are described as balancing all three, which is why Triphala is considered suitable for most people.

The classical proportion is equal parts of each dried fruit, although some preparations vary the ratio.

How Triphala is used

Triphala is traditionally taken to support regular, comfortable digestion and is considered a gentle daily rasayana. It is also used as an eyewash and mouth rinse in traditional practice, although these uses should only follow professional guidance.

How it is traditionally taken

• Powder: stirred into warm water and drunk in the evening, about an hour after dinner or before bed. It tastes sour, bitter and astringent.
• Tablets or capsules: more convenient and tasteless.
• Infusion: powder soaked overnight in water, with the liquid drunk in the morning.

Follow the directions on your product or from your practitioner.

Who should take care?

Triphala is not traditionally used during pregnancy. Speak to a doctor if you are breastfeeding, take regular medication, or have a digestive condition. Start with a small amount, as it can make bowel movements looser.

Triphala in other formulations

Triphala fruits appear in many multi-herb Ayurvedic products. Girivana’s Digest Well, for example, includes haritaki and bibhitaki together with familiar digestive spices.