Triphala Ghrita

Triphala Ghrita is a classical Ayurvedic formulation, described in the ayurvedic texts. It is made by slowly cooking a decoction and paste of Triphala with cow's ghee, sometimes with milk, until the water evaporates and the ghee carries the herbal extract. Triphala itself is a blend of three fruits: Amalaki (Indian gooseberry), Bibhitaki and Haritaki (Peterson et al., 2017).

In Ayurveda, ghee is described as an anupana and a yogavahi, meaning a carrier that helps the properties of the herbs reach the tissues. Ghrita preparations are traditionally used where a nourishing, unctuous quality is wanted.

Triphala Ghrita is described as sweet, sour and astringent in taste, cooling in potency, and is traditionally understood to pacify Pitta and Vata. It is classed as a Rasayana, a rejuvenative preparation.

Because Triphala Ghrita is made with ghee, it is high in fat, mostly saturated fat. One to two teaspoons contain roughly 40 to 80 kcal and 3 to 6 g of saturated fat. This matters if you are watching your cholesterol or your weight, and it means the product is not suitable for anyone avoiding dairy.

Triphala Ghrita is a Sanskrit formulation name, so it is spelt and transliterated differently rather than translated. The common forms are below:

• Triphala Ghee (English)
• Triphala Ghritam
• Triphala Gritham (used in South India)
• Triphala Siddha Ghrita
• Triphaladi Ghrita

Triphala Ghrita is built around Triphala, a classical blend of three fruits, cooked into cow's ghee.

• Amalaki (Emblica officinalis, Indian gooseberry): The sour fruit of the blend, traditionally described as cooling.
• Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica): Traditionally used to support the respiratory and digestive systems.
• Haritaki (Terminalia chebula): Traditionally used to support digestion and regular bowel movement.
• Cow's ghee (Goghrita): The base of the preparation. In Ayurveda, it acts as a carrier that helps the herbal properties reach the tissues.
• Milk: It is used in some classical preparations during the cooking process.

Some classic recipes also include additional herbs. Check the label of the product you buy, as formulations vary between manufacturers.

The active compounds come from the three Triphala fruits. The ghee itself is mainly fat.

• Tannins: It includes chebulagic acid and chebulinic acid, the main compounds in Haritaki and Bibhitaki.
• Gallic acid and ellagic acid: Phenolic compounds present across the three fruits, which show antioxidant activity.
• Vitamin C and polyphenols: These are contributed mainly by Amalaki.
• Flavonoids: These include quercetin, present in the fruits.
• Fat: From the ghee base, mostly saturated fat, along with small amounts of fat-soluble vitamins.

Triphala Ghrita is traditionally valued in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. Some of these are supported by research, while others require further clinical evidence.

• Antioxidant: It may help protect the body's cells from oxidative stress.
• Anti-inflammatory: It may help ease inflammation in the body.
• Antimicrobial: It is traditionally believed to help the body resist certain bacteria.
• Mild laxative: It is traditionally believed to support regular bowel movement.
• Immunomodulatory: It may help support balanced immune function.
• Analgesic: It is associated with helping ease mild discomfort, though further research is needed to confirm this.

Note: This information is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications.This information is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications.

Triphala Ghrita is one of the most potent Ayurvedic preparations. What makes this medicine stand out, however, is not just the benefit gained from Triphala but also combining it with ghee, which ensures a broader health benefit. These health benefits range from physical to mental and emotional levels. Some of the most significant health benefits from Triphala Ghrita are as follows:

1. Improves Eye Health

Triphala Ghrita is widely regarded in Ayurveda as a remedy to support eye health. Regular use may help reduce eye strain, promote clearer vision, and alleviate common eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma. It is considered highly effective in Ayurveda as an eye health-improving agent. Regular usage can help improve eye function, reduce eye strain, and manage disorders such as cataracts, glaucoma, and conjunctivitis.
Triphala’s antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress, a key factor in age-related degeneration. Ghee acts as a nourishing and cooling agent, soothing the eyes, making Triphala Ghrita an ideal remedy for individuals who spend extended hours in front of digital screens.
In Ayurvedic Netra Tarpana therapy, Triphala Ghrita is directly applied to the eyes to rejuvenate and purify them. This practice, which has been followed for centuries, helps clear eye infections, improve overall eye health, and enhance clarity of vision. Triphala Ghrita also provides relief from dryness and irritation, offering long-lasting benefits for eye health.

2. Digestive Health

It is one of the chief health benefits of Triphala Ghrita, which supports and conditions digestive health. Since Triphala combines detoxifying action in the gastrointestinal space and regulating digestion, this combination in Ghrita increases its power and effectiveness. Digestive disorders such as indigestion, bloating, gas, and constipation are managed with Triphala Ghrita. The digestive fire or Agni must be stimulated to improve digestion and absorb nutrients.

Triphala Ghrita ensures proper gut health by promoting regular bowel movements and detoxifying the digestive tract. Lubrication is caused by the ghee, which prevents constipation and facilitates the free flow of waste matter inside; therefore, it is particularly useful for chronic digestive trouble.

3. Detoxification and Purification

The anti-clog and detoxifying agent Triphala Ghrita cleanses the body of toxins known as ama. Ama means the toxic waste present in the body, produced by an unsuitable diet, lifestyle, environmental pollutants, and so on. The accumulation of toxins raises many diseases, from digestive disorders to skin diseases and a weak immune system. Cleansing the colon, liver, and blood removes toxins from the body.

This detoxification activity not only purifies the body but also rejuvenates it. Regular intake of Triphala Ghrita helps revive the tissues, restore cellular regeneration, and increase general well-being. It is broadly applied in all the detoxification therapies of Panchakarma to cleanse and rejuvenate the body.

4. Strengthens Immunity

Triphala Ghrita is highly rich in antioxidants that boost the immune system. In this particular preparation, Triphala's combined antioxidant property and ghee's nourishing impact make it more resistant to infections and diseases. Triphala Ghrita tends to resist seasonal diseases such as common colds, flu, and infections through regular consumption.

The formula for Triphala Ghrita also helps restore the body's strength and suppleness to regain strength and recover quickly from diseases. As a general immunity enhancer, Triphala Ghrita maintains good health and balance in the body during stress or environmental changes.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The anti-inflammatory property of the medicine makes Triphala Ghrita a valuable remedy for inflammatory conditions. Most chronic diseases result from inflammation within the body, including arthritis, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders. It combines the anti-inflammatory properties of Triphala with the soothing and lubricating effects of ghee to reduce inflammation within the body.

Triphala Ghrita is especially beneficial in conditions like spondylitis, arthritis, or other inflammatory disorders in the musculoskeletal system. Due to this, it is aptly used for individuals experiencing inflammation, pain, and stiffness in their joints. This herb makes functional changes in flexibility and mobility.

6. Skin Health Facilitator

This preparation is also famous for its positive impact on the skin. As Triphala detoxifies, the blood becomes pure and fresh, enhancing the quality of the skin by fading blemishes, spots, and pimples. Triphala Ghrita nourishes the skin and moistens it while keeping it far from dryness.

For patients with skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or rashes, topical application of Triphala Ghrita relieves irritation and supports healing. Internal use of Triphala Ghrita establishes internal balance, resulting in healthy, clearer skin over time.

7. Enhances Cognitive Function and Mental Clarity

It also helps in supporting the overall physical health of a person and mental and emotional well-being. It improves cognitive performance, helps sharpen memory, and can even enhance mental clarity. Regularly consuming Triphala Ghrita helps improve the brain's functioning, allows it to take in information efficiently, and does not permit excessive mental fatigue. The mental calming property of ghee comes in handy with soothing the nervous system and alleviating stress, anxiety, and even depression.

Triphala Ghrita is used as a brain tonic to improve concentration and attention; it is an excellent medicine for students and people engaged in mental work.

8. Anti-aging and Longevity

Triphala Ghrita destroys free radicals and has an antioxidant property, rejuvenates cells, and decreases the rate of ageing, promoting longevity and general vitality. Fine lines are reduced, wrinkles eliminated, and general body resilience with regular use of Triphala Ghrita to keep the skin young.

9. The Respiratory Health

In Ayurveda, Triphala Ghrita is traditionally used to support respiratory health by soothing throat irritation, reducing airway inflammation, and helping clear excess mucus. It is considered useful in managing symptoms of cold, cough, mild asthma, and bronchitis while supporting lung strength and immune function. Its antioxidant and cooling properties help calm respiratory tract irritation and promote easier breathing.

10. Weight Management

Although not primarily indicated for weight loss, Triphala Ghrita can benefit the body regarding weight management. Triphala regulates balance in the storage and usage of body fats; therefore, when taken with ghee, it ensures a good digestive system and assimilation of nutrients and inhibits excessive eating and carvings.

11. Joint and Muscle Health

Triphala Ghrita is administered to deal with joint and muscle health conditions. This product is advisable when applied as a treatment for arthritis, stiffness, or joint pains. Triphala Ghrita maintains flexibility and movements by melting the swelling and lubricating the joints.

12.  Nourishes the Body

Ghrita preparations are classed in Ayurveda as nourishing and unctuous, and are traditionally given to people who are dry, depleted or run down. Triphala Ghrita is used in this way as a Rasayana.

Triphala Ghrita is a traditional preparation, not a treatment. It does not treat glaucoma, cataract, eye infection, asthma, arthritis or depression. Consult a doctor if you have any of these conditions.

Disclaimer: This information is general and is not medical advice. Triphala Ghrita is a traditional Ayurvedic preparation and does not treat any disease. Do not use it in your eyes. Speak to a doctor before use.

 For Sluggish Digestion

It is most commonly taken by mouth, in a small amount, to support digestion and regular bowel movement.

As a Nourishing Rasayana

It is traditionally given to people who feel dry, depleted or run down, as a nourishing preparation.

Within Panchakarma

Ghrita preparations are used in the preparatory stage of Panchakarma (Snehapana), where increasing amounts of medicated ghee are taken under close supervision by an Ayurvedic doctor. This is a clinical procedure, not something to do at home.

In Clinical Eye Therapy

It is used by Ayurvedic practitioners in supervised eye procedures. This is done in a clinic, not at home.

Triphala Ghrita is a medicated ghee. Read the points below before using it, and speak to a doctor first.

• High cholesterol or heart disease: This is a ghee preparation and is high in saturated fat. If you have high cholesterol, heart disease or have been told to reduce saturated fat, talk to your doctor before taking it.
• Dairy allergy, lactose intolerance or a vegan diet: Triphala Ghrita is made from cow's ghee. It is not suitable if you avoid dairy.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor before taking it. Haritaki is traditionally avoided in pregnancy.
• Diabetes: Speak to your doctor before use, as some preparations contain milk and the formulation is energy dense.
• Loose stools or diarrhoea: Triphala has a laxative action. Do not take it if you already have loose stools, and stop if it causes them.
• Children: Give it only on the advice of an Ayurvedic doctor.
• Alcohol: It is sensible to avoid alcohol while taking any herbal medicine.

Do not use it in your eyes at home. Netra Tarpana and Aschyotana are clinical procedures performed by a qualified practitioner. Putting ghee or any home-made preparation into the eye can cause infection and damage your sight.

Note: This is general information and not medical advice. Consult a doctor before starting any herbal medicine.

Triphala Ghrita is taken by mouth. Follow the methods below, and confirm the amount with an Ayurvedic doctor.

Taking It With Warm Water

Take half to one teaspoon of Triphala Ghrita with a small cup of warm water, usually in the morning on an empty stomach. Warm water helps the ghee mix and go down more easily.

Taking It With Warm Milk

Stir half to one teaspoon into a cup of warm milk. This is a common method, particularly when the preparation is being taken as a nourishing tonic.

Note: Do not put Triphala Ghrita in your eyes, and do not apply it to damaged skin. Do not exceed the amount advised by your practitioner.

Triphala Ghrita is a medicated ghee and should be taken in small amounts. The guidance below is a starting point only. Always confirm the dose with a qualified Ayurvedic doctor.

• Children: Only on the advice of an Ayurvedic doctor, at a reduced dose.
• Teenagers (13 to 18 years): Only on the advice of an Ayurvedic doctor.
• Adults: Half to one teaspoon, once or twice daily, taken with warm water or warm milk, usually in the morning on an empty stomach.
• Older adults: Start at the lower end, half a teaspoon once daily, particularly if you are watching your cholesterol.

Remember that this is a ghee preparation. One to two teaspoons give roughly 40 to 80 kcal and 3 to 6 g of saturated fat. Do not increase the dose yourself. Higher doses of medicated ghee are used only in Snehapana, a supervised Panchakarma procedure carried out by an Ayurvedic doctor.

Triphala Ghrita is generally well tolerated at normal doses. The effects below are possible.

Loose Stools or Diarrhoea

Triphala has a laxative action, and the ghee adds a lubricating effect. Taking too much may cause loose stools or diarrhoea. Reduce the dose or stop.

Digestive Discomfort

Some people may notice nausea, a heavy feeling or bloating, particularly when starting, because the preparation is rich in fat.

Added Calories and Saturated Fat

This is a ghee preparation. Taken daily over a long period, it adds saturated fat and calories to your diet, which matters if you are watching your cholesterol or your weight.

Allergic Reaction

Rarely, someone may react to an ingredient. Anyone with a dairy allergy should not take it at all. Stop and seek medical help if you develop a rash, swelling or difficulty breathing.

Eye Injury From Improper Use

Putting Triphala Ghrita into the eyes at home can cause irritation, infection, corneal damage and, in serious cases, loss of sight. Do not do this. Seek urgent medical help if you have put it in your eye and have pain, redness or blurred vision.

Note: Stop taking Triphala Ghrita and speak to a doctor if any side effect persists.

Tell your doctor you are taking Triphala Ghrita if you use any of the medicines below.

Medicines Taken by Mouth in General

Triphala has a laxative action, which can speed up how quickly food and medicine move through the gut. This may reduce how well some medicines are absorbed. As a general rule, leave a gap of a few hours between Triphala Ghrita and any regular prescription medicine, and check with your doctor.

Blood Thinning Medicines

Some compounds in Triphala may affect blood clotting. If you take warfarin or another blood thinner, talk to your doctor before taking it.

Diabetes Medicines

Triphala has been studied for effects on blood sugar. If you take insulin or diabetes tablets, monitor your blood sugar and talk to your doctor.

Laxatives

Triphala Ghrita already has a bowel action. Taking it alongside another laxative may cause diarrhoea.

Cholesterol Lowering Medicines

This is a ghee preparation, high in saturated fat. If you take a statin or have been told to reduce saturated fat, tell your doctor you are taking a daily spoonful of medicated ghee.

Note: This is not a complete list. Always tell your doctor about any herbal product you take.

Disclaimer: This information is general and is not medical advice. Triphala Ghrita is a traditional Ayurvedic preparation and does not treat any disease. Do not use it in your eyes. Speak to a doctor before use.

Storage of Triphala Ghrita

Medicated ghee needs a little care in storage, because fat can turn rancid.

• Keep the jar tightly closed, in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Always use a clean, dry spoon. Moisture or food particles in the jar will spoil the ghee.
• Ghrita may become firm in cold weather and soft in warm weather. This is normal and does not mean it has spoiled.
• Do not use it if it smells sour, rancid or off, or if you see any mould.
• Keep it out of the reach of children.
• Do not use it after the expiry date printed on the pack.

The main points to remember about Triphala Ghrita are below.

• Triphala Ghrita is a classical Ayurvedic medicated ghee, made by cooking Triphala (Amalaki, Bibhitaki and Haritaki) with cow's ghee.
• It is traditionally taken by mouth, in a small amount, to support digestion and to nourish the body.
• Do not put it in your eyes at home. Ayurvedic eye procedures using Triphala Ghrita are performed by a qualified practitioner in a clinic. Putting ghee or a home-made preparation into the eye can cause infection and damage your sight.
• It is not a treatment. It does not treat glaucoma, cataract, eye infection, asthma, arthritis or depression. See a doctor about any of these.
• It is a ghee preparation and is high in saturated fat. It is not suitable if you avoid dairy, and you should speak to your doctor if you have high cholesterol or heart disease.
• The usual adult dose is half to one teaspoon, once or twice daily, with warm water or milk.
• It may cause loose stools, because Triphala has a laxative action.
• Research on this specific formulation is very limited. Most evidence is on Triphala itself.