Haritaki

🌿 (Terminalia chebula) or (Chebulic Myrobalan)

Also known as Abhaya or the “King of Herbs”

📖 Overview

Haritaki, called Abhaya in Sanskrit, is one of the most highly regarded Rasayana herbs in Ayurveda. This wrinkled green fruit is known for its powerful cleansing, rejuvenating, and Vata-balancing effects. It is one of the three fruits that make up the renowned formulation Triphala.

📜 Traditional Use in Ayurveda

Haritaki is described in Ayurveda as Deepana (digestive stimulant), Bhedana (mild laxative), and Rasayana(rejuvenative). It is known for cleansing the colon, supporting respiratory health, and enhancing longevity.

Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana 4.12):
“Haritaki pathyanam atma”
“Among all beneficial herbs, Haritaki is the most revered.”

Bhavaprakasha Nighantu (Amradi Varga, Verse 49):
“Haritaki rasa panchaka tridoshaghni rasayani”
“Haritaki has five tastes, balances all three doshas, and is a rejuvenative.”

Haritaki is known to nourish all seven dhatus (tissues) and promote clarity, vitality, and elimination of Ama (toxins).

🍵 Suggested Use

Haritaki is commonly used in:

• Powder (Churna): 1–3 grams, often taken at night with warm water or ghee

• Tablets/Capsules: Standardized extracts or Triphala-based formulas

• Infusion or decoction: Taken for digestion, colon cleansing, or respiratory support

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Modern science supports Haritaki’s broad-spectrum benefits:

• Digestive Health: Shown to support healthy elimination and gastrointestinal motility [1]

• Antioxidant Activity: Contains polyphenols and chebulinic acid with powerful free radical scavenging effects [2]

• Antimicrobial Properties: Haritaki has been observed to inhibit harmful bacteria and support oral hygiene [3]

References:

1. Peterson, C. T., et al. (2017). Triphala and its phytochemicals in gastrointestinal health and disease. Curr Gastroenterol Rep, 19(5), 24.

2. Saleem, A., et al. (2002). Chebulagic acid: A potent antioxidant and hepatoprotective compound from Terminalia chebula. Phytother Res, 16(5), 403–405.

3. Jagtap, A. G., & Karkera, S. G. (1999). Potential of the aqueous extract of Terminalia chebula as an anticaries agent. J Ethnopharmacol, 68(1–3), 299–306.

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

• May be overly stimulating in cases of severe weakness or dehydration

• Avoid during pregnancy unless guided by a qualified practitioner

• Mild laxative effect—adjust dose based on personal response

🛍️ Shop by Interest

• Digestion & Gut

• Immune System

• Sleep Support

• Products for Vata

"Products Featuring Haritaki"

"These products feature Haritaki, traditionally used to support general wellness. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease."