Triphala is a highly revered, time-tested ayurvedic herb which is thought to be beneficial to every system and organ of the body.

It helps regulate & cleanse the digestive system. It’s so gentle that it’s considered safe enough to be taken everyday. It also helps cleanse the blood & liver, and doesn’t deplete the body because of its high nutritional content. These cleansing actions are extremely beneficial to the skin. It’s helpful for the eyes, respiratory, glandular, cardiovascular and immune systems.

It’s believed to be anti-aging, and is known in ayurveda to speed healing, and to rejuvenate every part of the body. It’s great for all three doshas, and considered safe for most people, from infants to the elderly* (although it’s normally not recommended if you’re pregnant or nursing / ** if in doubt make sure to check in with a qualified physician.)

Triphala is made up of 3 nourishing fruits, including vibhitaki/bibitaki, haritaki, and amla/amalaki. Amla is extremely high in heat stable vitamin C (which is normally very easy to destroy with temperature changes). It’s said to have 20 times more vitamin C than oranges.

Vitamin C can hydrate the skin and increase collagen production (preventing wrinkles & increasing elasticity). It can also help strengthen the blood vessels below the surface of your skin, which can help repair or prevent broken capillaries & spider veins.

How to take it: You can find triphala in capsules (from brands such as Organic India or Gaia Herbs) or buy it in loose powder form – I got mine at Mountain Rose Herbs. ( I’m not affiliated with any of these companies, just a fan of their high quality products & sustainable practices.)

I usually take 1/4 of a teaspoon of the powder in some warm spring water with about 1 tsp of honey. You can start with 1/8 of a tsp of the herb and slowly work your way up to 1 or 2 tsp depending on your own needs and tolerance for it. Check out this article to learn more about dosage. Feel free to take it plain or with the vegan sweetener of your choice (a little bit of coconut sugar?)

It is quite bitter, so for me the honey helps it go down more smoothly (the taste has actually grown on me).  I like taking it this way instead of in capsules since the bitter flavor helps get digestion going. It’s suggested that you take it first thing in the morning or right before bed.

You can also take it in a cup of tulsi tea, which tastes great, also has amazing health benefits and is said to amplify some of triphalas actions.

Do you ever take triphala? I’d love to hear how you’ve benefited from it. <3

Liz

*Disclaimer: The information on this website is for informational purposes only. The information shared is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. **Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have. Use your own discretion and do your research before trying any herb, essential oil or health regimen, especially if pregnant, nursing or have a health condition.

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Want to learn about more herbs for glowing skin? Check out this post