Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- all except salty
- Potency (Virya)
- hotsweet
- Dosha Effect
- Vata, Pitta & Kapha balanced
- Tissues
- All
- Systems
- Diges-tive, excretory, nervous, respiratory, female reproductive
What is Haritaki?
If Amla is the queen of Ayurvedic herbs, Haritaki is the king. The Bhavaprakasha Nighantu opens its herbal compendium not with any other plant, but with Haritaki — and gives it the title Sarva Roga Prashamani, the pacifier of all diseases. In Tibetan Buddhist iconography, the Medicine Buddha is depicted holding a single Haritaki fruit, a quiet visual statement of how seriously this herb has been taken across Asia for over two thousand years.
Haritaki (Terminalia chebula Retz.) — known in English as Chebulic Myrobalan — is the dried fruit of a large deciduous tree native to South and Southeast Asia. The Sanskrit name Haritaki literally means "that which removes disease," and its many synonyms hint at the same reverence: Abhaya ("the fearless one," because it makes the body fearless of illness), Pathya ("the wholesome"), and Vijaya ("the victorious"). It is the senior member of the famous Triphala trio — the three-fruit blend that pairs Haritaki with Amla and Bibhitaki — and it appears in more classical Ayurvedic formulations than almost any other single plant.
What makes Haritaki unique among herbs is its taste profile: it carries five of the six classical tastes (rasas) — astringent, bitter, pungent, sweet, and sour — missing only salty. This rare completeness is why classical authors treat Haritaki as a near-universal medicine, capable of acting on every tissue (dhatu) and channel (srotas) in the body. The proverb "Yasya mata grihe nasti, tasya mata Haritaki" — "one whose mother is not at home should treat Haritaki as a mother" — captures how the tradition regards it: nourishing, protective, and trustworthy enough for daily use.
Benefits of Haritaki
Haritaki's reputation is not built on one marquee benefit — it is built on breadth. The Bhavaprakasha Nighantu lists it as a remedy for prameha (urinary disorders and diabetes), kushtha (skin diseases), shotha (edema), krimi (parasites), gulma (abdominal masses), arsha (hemorrhoids), grahani (malabsorption), and both vibandha (constipation) and atisara (diarrhea) — often at different doses. Below are the benefits with the strongest classical and clinical backing.
Digestion and Bowel Regularity
This is Haritaki's signature benefit. The Sharangadhara Samhita defines the action of Anulomana — gentle downward movement of waste — using Haritaki as its textbook example: "That which digests the waste materials and, breaking their bonds, moves them downward — that is Anulomana, like Haritaki."
Unlike harsh purgatives, Haritaki works by toning the bowel rather than stripping it. In low dose (1-2 grams) the tannins make it mildly astringent and helpful in diarrhea; in higher dose (4-6 grams) the sennoside content makes it a reliable remedy for chronic constipation. The same herb, two directions — which is why the tradition calls Haritaki Tridosha Shamaka, a balancer rather than a one-way agent.
Rejuvenation and Longevity (Rasayana)
Classical texts list Haritaki among the supreme Rasayanas — herbs that slow aging and extend healthy lifespan. The Ashtanga Hridaya states that Haritaki is Vayasthapani ("vayasah sthapani param") — foremost among substances that stabilize youthfulness and promote longevity (Ayushya).
The classical Abhaya Rasayana protocol — one Haritaki fruit taken daily with a seasonally appropriate vehicle — is the oldest continuous Rasayana regimen in Ayurveda, recommended for adults at any life stage who want steady vitality (see weakness and debility).
Cognition and Nervous System
Haritaki is classified as Medhya — an intellect-enhancer. The Ashtanga Hridaya explicitly lists it as a promoter of intelligence, sense-organ strength, and physical power ("buddhi-indriya-bala-prada"). The tradition uses it for memory problems, mental fatigue, and age-related cognitive decline, often paired with Brahmi or Shankhpushpi.
Immunity and Respiratory Health
As a Rasayana that strengthens Ojas (the subtle essence of immunity), Haritaki is a mainstay for recurrent colds and flu, cough (Kasa), asthma (Shvasa), and chronic sore throat. A chewed Haritaki fruit after meals is a traditional practice in hill regions of India for keeping the respiratory tract clear through winter.
Metabolic Health: Blood Sugar and Weight
The Bhavaprakasha lists Prameha (the classical category that includes diabetes) as a primary indication. Modern studies on Terminalia chebula extract consistently show improvements in fasting glucose and lipid profiles, which aligns with its classical role as Medohara (fat-reducing). Haritaki is commonly included in Ayurvedic diabetes formulas alongside Guduchi.
Skin, Eyes, and External Use
Haritaki is Chakshushya — beneficial for the eyes — and its decoction is the classical wash for conjunctivitis and tired eyes. For the skin, it is an ingredient in countless formulas for chronic skin disorders (Kushtha), and the paste is applied externally to wounds, burns, and hemorrhoids. A Haritaki decoction gargle (Kavala) is one of the oldest remedies in Ayurvedic oral care.
How to Use Haritaki
Haritaki is one of the most versatile herbs in the Ayurvedic pharmacy. It works as a powder, decoction, chewed whole fruit, or paste — and the form you choose changes the action. This is a herb where preparation method matters as much as dose.
Standard Dosage by Form
| Form | Dose | Best For | When to Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powder (Churna) | 3-6 g with warm water | Daily Rasayana, constipation, detox | Bedtime (for morning bowel) |
| Low-dose powder | 1-2 g | Diarrhea, IBS, hemorrhoids | Twice daily after meals |
| Decoction (Kwatha) | 30-60 ml | Chronic conditions, fevers, skin | Morning, empty stomach |
| Chewed whole (Charvana) | 1 fruit | Kindling digestive fire, oral health | After meals |
| Tincture (1:3, 25%) | 3-12 ml/day | Metabolic, respiratory support | Split into 2-3 doses |
| External paste (Pishta) | As needed | Wounds, hemorrhoids, skin | Topical |
The Five Classical Preparations
The Bhavaprakasha Nighantu notes that the same Haritaki fruit performs different actions depending on how you prepare it — a principle rarely seen with any other herb:
- Charvana (chewed raw): Kindles digestive fire (Agni Deepana).
- Pishta (ground into paste): Performs Shodhana — purifying and cleansing action.
- Kwatha (boiled decoction): Becomes Grahi — absorbent, helpful in diarrhea.
- Bharjita (roasted): Pacifies all three doshas (Tridosha Shamaka).
- Sahabhojana (taken with meals): Supports appetite and digestion.
The Six Seasonal Anupanas (Vehicles)
Haritaki is the only Ayurvedic herb with a distinct vehicle prescribed for every season. Classical texts tune the carrier to the seasonal dosha imbalance, so the herb works with the climate rather than against it:
| Season | Anupana (Vehicle) | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Varsha (monsoon) | Rock salt (Saindhava Lavana) | Counters weak digestion and Vata accumulation |
| Sharad (autumn) | Sugar (Sharkara) | Cools natural Pitta peak |
| Hemanta (early winter) | Dry ginger (Shunthi) | Supports digestive fire in cold |
| Shishira (late winter) | Long pepper (Pippali) | Clears Kapha, warms the lungs |
| Vasanta (spring) | Honey (Madhu) | Scrapes off accumulated Kapha |
| Grishma (summer) | Jaggery (Guda) | Replenishes strength lost to heat |
The Seven Varieties
Classical pharmacology recognises seven distinct Haritaki varieties, each with a preferred use: Vijaya (all-purpose, preferred for Shodhana cleansing protocols), Rohini (wound healing), Putana (external application only, smaller fruit), Amrita (internal detoxification), Abhaya (eye disorders and Rasayana), Jivanti (general health), and Chetaki (mild laxative — the variety most often sold in commerce). Most commercial Haritaki powder is a blend of Chetaki and Vijaya, which is appropriate for everyday use.
Combinations for Specific Goals
- Constipation with Vata: Haritaki + castor oil, or the classic Triphala blend.
- Constipation with Pitta: Haritaki + Amla + kutki.
- Constipation with Kapha: Haritaki + bibhitaki + pippali.
- Daily Rasayana: Abhaya Rasayana — one Haritaki fruit with the season-appropriate anupana above.
- Metabolic support: Pair with Guduchi and turmeric.
Safety & Side Effects
Haritaki is a powerful herb — more so than Amla or most common daily tonics — and the classical texts are unusually explicit about when not to use it. This is one of the few herbs in Ayurveda with a formal list of contraindications in the primary texts.
Contraindications (Classical)
The Bhavaprakasha Nighantu lists seven conditions in which Haritaki should be avoided:
- Pregnancy: Haritaki has a downward-moving, uterine-stimulating action. It is contraindicated through all trimesters.
- Dehydration or diarrhea from depletion: Its purgative tendency can worsen fluid loss.
- Severe exhaustion or emaciation: The body is already depleted; Haritaki's cleansing action would deplete it further.
- Fasting or very weak individuals: Its pungent, hot potency needs food to buffer it.
- Extreme thirst: Often a sign of Pitta or fluid imbalance that Haritaki will aggravate.
- Immediately after Raktamokshana (bloodletting): A classical post-procedure rule.
- Dry, fiery Pitta constitutions: The hot potency can aggravate already-burning tissues.
Pregnancy and Nursing
Haritaki is contraindicated throughout pregnancy. Its Anulomana (downward-moving) action can stimulate the uterus, and its strong purgative tendency at higher doses is inappropriate during gestation. For constipation in pregnancy, gentler options like soaked Amla or fennel-based remedies are preferred. During nursing, small culinary doses in formulations like Triphala are generally considered safe, but isolated Haritaki is best avoided until weaning.
Dose-Dependent Effects
Haritaki is one of a handful of herbs where dose changes direction:
- Low dose (1-2 g): Astringent — helpful in diarrhea, IBS, hemorrhoids.
- Standard dose (3-5 g): Toning, carminative, mildly laxative.
- High dose (6-10 g): Strongly laxative. Appropriate only for short-term constipation relief, not daily use.
Sustained high-dose use can cause loose stools, cramping, and electrolyte loss. If you use Haritaki daily, stay in the 3-5 g range and drop the dose if stools become watery.
Drug Interactions
Haritaki may enhance the effect of oral diabetes medications (monitor blood sugar), blood thinners, and diuretics. Because of its tannin content, take it at least two hours apart from iron supplements and prescription medicines to avoid absorption interference. Consult your doctor before combining with laxatives or stool softeners.
Signs of Overuse
Watch for: loose stools more than twice daily, abdominal cramping, lightheadedness, increased thirst, or worsening dryness of skin and lips. These indicate the dose is too high or the constitution too dry for daily use. Drop the dose, switch to a formula like Triphala that buffers Haritaki with Amla, or pause and restart at a lower level.
Varieties
| Variety | Region | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Vijaya | Vindhya mountains | All diseases, Shodhana procedures |
| Rohini | Pratishthana (Paithan) | Wound healing |
| Putana | Sindh region | External application |
| Amrita | Champa (Bhagalpur) | Internal purification |
| Abhaya | Champa region | Eye diseases |
| Jivanti | Saurashtra (Gujarat) | General diseases |
| Chetaki | Himalayas | Churna (powder) use |
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
Recommended: Start Here
If you want to start using Haritaki today and want the simplest, most effective option: take Haritaki as part of Triphala. Triphala combines Haritaki with Amla and Bibhitaki, and the cooling action of Amla perfectly balances Haritaki's heating potency — making it safe for long-term daily use across almost all constitutions.
Standard protocol: 3-5 grams of Triphala powder in warm water, 30-45 minutes before bedtime. Most people see improved bowel regularity, better sleep, and clearer skin within 2-3 weeks.
Triphala Powder on Amazon ↗ Haritaki Powder ↗
For Targeted Goals
- Chronic constipation: Pure Haritaki churna, 5-6 g at bedtime with warm water.
- Rasayana / anti-aging: The classical Abhaya Rasayana — one Haritaki fruit chewed daily with the season-appropriate vehicle (see How to Use).
- Diarrhea or IBS: Low-dose roasted Haritaki, 1-2 g twice daily after meals.
- Capsule convenience: Standardized Haritaki extract capsules, 500 mg twice daily.
Haritaki Capsules ↗ Whole Haritaki Fruit ↗
What to look for: Organic certification, country of origin (India or Sri Lanka preferred), and ideally the variety specified (Vijaya or Chetaki for daily use). Avoid products with added fillers or flavoring.
Seasonal Use (Ritucharya)
| Season | Recommended With |
|---|---|
| Varsha | With Saindhava Lavana (rock salt) |
| Sharad | With Sharkara (sugar) |
| Hemanta | With Shunthi (dry ginger) |
| Shishira | With Pippali (long pepper) |
| Vasanta | With Madhu (honey) |
| Grishma | With Guda (jaggery) |
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
Haritaki vs Other Herbs & Supplements
Haritaki gets compared to several herbs and supplements, and the answers depend on what you're actually trying to accomplish. Here are the five most common comparisons:
| Comparison | Haritaki | Alternative | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haritaki vs Triphala | Single herb. Heating, Vata-reducing, stronger laxative action. | Three-herb formula: Haritaki + Amla + Bibhitaki. Balanced across all three doshas. | Triphala for daily, long-term use — it contains Haritaki, buffered by Amla's cooling. Choose pure Haritaki when you need stronger laxative action or targeted Vata reduction. |
| Haritaki vs Amla | Heating potency, astringent + bitter + pungent dominant, Vata-pacifying, stronger mover of waste. | Cooling potency, sour + sweet dominant, Pitta-pacifying, gentler Rasayana for daily use. | Amla for Pitta types, heat, inflammation, daily Vitamin C. Haritaki for Vata types, sluggish digestion, constipation, deeper cleansing. They are complementary, not substitutes. |
| Haritaki vs Psyllium (Isabgol) | Acts on tissue level — tones the bowel wall, improves absorption, addresses root causes of irregularity. | Bulk-forming fiber — works mechanically by adding volume. No tissue-level action. | Psyllium for short-term symptom relief and fiber intake. Haritaki for addressing the underlying weakness of digestion (Agni). Can be used together: psyllium morning, Haritaki at night. |
| Haritaki vs Senna | Tones and regulates the bowel. Safe for long-term use at moderate doses. Nourishes as it moves. | Stimulant laxative. Works fast but strips the bowel. Causes dependency with prolonged use. | Critical distinction: Haritaki strengthens the bowel over time; Senna weakens it. Senna is appropriate for acute, short-term constipation only (under one week). For ongoing regularity, always choose Haritaki. |
| Haritaki vs Bibhitaki | Senior of the Triphala trio. Acts primarily on Vata and the colon. Medhya (cognitive). | Third of the Triphala trio. Acts primarily on Kapha and respiratory channels. Stronger expectorant. | Haritaki for digestive and cognitive goals. Bibhitaki for respiratory health, excess mucus, and Kapha-type weight gain. Together in Triphala they cover all three doshas. |
The short answer: Haritaki is the herb you reach for when the body needs gentle but real movement — of waste, of stagnation, of Vata. For everyday use, take it inside Triphala. For targeted constipation or Rasayana, take it alone.
Preparation Forms
| Form | Effect |
|---|---|
| Charvana | Chewed — kindles digestive fire (Agni Deepana) |
| Pishta | Ground paste — Shodhana (purifying) |
| Kwatha | Decoction — Grahi (absorbent, stops diarrhea) |
| Bharjita | Roasted — Tridosha Shamaka |
| Sahabhojana | With meals — increases Buddhi, strength, nourishes senses |
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
Haritaki for Specific Populations
Pregnancy & Nursing
Haritaki is contraindicated during pregnancy. The Bhavaprakasha Nighantu explicitly lists pregnant women among those who should not take Haritaki, because its Anulomana (downward-moving) action and uterine-stimulating tendency are inappropriate during gestation. This applies across all trimesters and to all forms — powder, capsule, decoction, or fresh fruit.
For constipation in pregnancy — a very common complaint — use gentler alternatives like soaked prunes, soaked Amla, warm milk with a teaspoon of ghee, or fennel tea. After delivery and through nursing, small culinary amounts within Triphala are traditionally considered acceptable, but pure high-dose Haritaki should wait until weaning.
Children
Haritaki has a long pediatric history — the classical Abhaya Rasayana protocol was traditionally given to children from age 5 onward to support digestion, appetite, and cognitive development. The Ashtanga Hridaya specifically lists Haritaki as Medhya (intellect-promoting) and appropriate for growing bodies.
Practical dosing: children aged 5-10 can take 500 mg to 1 g of Haritaki churna with warm water and a little honey at bedtime, two or three nights a week — not daily. For ages 10-16, 1-2 g is appropriate. Avoid in children under 5 unless prescribed by a practitioner. Never use the high laxative dose in children.
Elderly
This is Haritaki's ideal population. Age-related Vata imbalance — dry skin, constipation, poor sleep, memory slippage, joint stiffness — is exactly what Haritaki addresses. Classical texts describe it as Vayasthapani (preserving youthfulness) and prescribe it as a lifelong Rasayana for older adults.
Practical dosing: 3-5 g of Haritaki churna at bedtime with warm water, or Triphala at the same dose. If dryness is pronounced, combine with a teaspoon of ghee or warm sesame oil. Monitor stool consistency and reduce if loose. Elderly individuals on multiple medications should space Haritaki at least 2 hours from other drugs to avoid tannin interference.
Athletes
For athletes, Haritaki's value is less about performance and more about recovery. Regular training creates metabolic waste (ama) and Vata disturbance that Haritaki clears efficiently. It also supports steady bowel function — a common problem with high-protein diets and intense training loads.
Protocol: 3 g of Haritaki or Triphala at bedtime on training days. Avoid on competition days or fasting days — the laxative tendency is poorly timed for performance. For inflammation and joint stress, pair with turmeric and Guduchi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take Haritaki every day?
Yes, at moderate doses (3-5 g) and ideally as part of Triphala, which buffers Haritaki's heating potency with the cooling action of Amla. Pure Haritaki at the higher laxative dose (6-10 g) should not be used daily for more than a few weeks at a time — it can cause dryness, electrolyte loss, and bowel dependency. If you want a lifelong daily Rasayana, Triphala is safer than isolated Haritaki.
What's the difference between Haritaki and Triphala?
Triphala is a formula made of three fruits: Haritaki, Amla, and Bibhitaki, in equal proportions. Haritaki is one-third of Triphala. Triphala is gentler and more balanced across all three doshas, while pure Haritaki is stronger and more specifically Vata-reducing and laxative. For general daily use, choose Triphala; for targeted constipation or deeper cleansing, choose pure Haritaki.
When should I take Haritaki — morning or night?
Bedtime is the classical recommendation for the laxative effect — take 3-5 g in warm water 30-45 minutes before sleeping, and you'll have a clean bowel movement in the morning. For digestive and appetite support, the chewed-fruit form (Charvana) is taken after meals. For the classical Abhaya Rasayana, Haritaki is taken on an empty stomach in the morning with the season-appropriate vehicle.
Is Haritaki safe during pregnancy?
No. Haritaki is classically contraindicated during pregnancy due to its downward-moving, uterine-stimulating action. The Bhavaprakasha Nighantu explicitly lists pregnant women among those who should not take Haritaki. For constipation in pregnancy, use gentler alternatives like soaked prunes, warm milk with ghee, or fennel tea, and consult your obstetrician.
How is Haritaki different from Senna or other laxatives?
Senna and most pharmaceutical laxatives are stimulants — they force the bowel to contract and can create dependency with prolonged use. Haritaki works by toning the bowel wall and improving digestive fire (Agni), so bowel function gets stronger over time rather than weaker. Senna is appropriate for short-term, acute constipation (under a week). For ongoing regularity, Haritaki is the better long-term choice.
Why does Haritaki have seven varieties?
Classical Ayurvedic pharmacology recognises seven distinct varieties of Haritaki — Vijaya, Rohini, Putana, Amrita, Abhaya, Jivanti, and Chetaki — each harvested from different regions and preferred for different therapeutic applications. In modern commerce, most Haritaki powder is a blend of Chetaki (mild laxative) and Vijaya (all-purpose), which is appropriate for everyday use. Specialized formulations may specify a variety; generic products typically do not.
Can Haritaki really cure both constipation and diarrhea?
Yes — this is one of the few herbs where dose determines direction. At low dose (1-2 g, especially when roasted), Haritaki's astringent tannins help in diarrhea and IBS. At higher dose (4-6 g), the sennoside content makes it laxative and helpful for constipation. This dual action is why classical texts call Haritaki a regulator rather than a one-way agent.
How to Use Haritaki by Condition
Explore how Haritaki is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
▶ Classical Text References (6 sources)
Classical Therapeutic Uses
- Prameha (urinary disorders/diabetes)
- Kushtha (skin diseases)
- Shotha (edema/swelling)
- Udara Roga (abdominal diseases)
- Krimi (worms/parasites)
- Gulma (abdominal tumors)
- Arsha (hemorrhoids)
- Grahani (malabsorption syndrome)
- Vibandha (constipation)
- Atisara (diarrhea)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
References in Astanga Hridaya
Haritaki कषाया मधुरा पाके ा वलवणा लघुः १५३ द पनी पाचनी मे या वयसः थापनी परम ् उ णवीया सरा आयु या बु ीि यबल दा १५४ कु ठवैव यवै वयपुराण वषम वरान ् शरो अ पा डु ोगकामला हणीगदान ् १५५ सशोषशोफातीसारमेदमोहव म मीन ् वासकास से काशः ल हानाहगरोदरम ् १५६ वब धं ोतसां गु ममू त भमरोचकम ् हर तक जये त ् या धं तां तां च कफवातजान ् १५७ Haritaki is astringent, sweet at the end of digestion, dry (causes dryness) devoid of lavana (possesses the remaining five tastes) easily digestable, kindles hunger
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 6: Annaswaroopa Food
कटु पाके हमं के यम मीष च त गुणम ् Aksha (vibhitaka) is pungent at the end of digestion, cold in potency, good for hairs and possesses properties similar (to haritaki and amalaka) but slightly less (in degree).
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 6: Annaswaroopa Food
158 Triphala benefits: इयं रसायनवरा फला अ यामयापहा । रोपणी व गद लेदमेदोमे हकफा िजत ् ॥१५९॥ Thus, the Triphala (haritaki, amalaki and vibhitaki), together is a best rejuvenator of the body, cures diseases of the eyes, heals wounds and cures skin diseases, excess moisture of the tissues, obesity, diabetes, aggravation of kapha and Asra (blood) 159.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 6: Annaswaroopa Food
- 1-3 Qualities and health benefits of rice – which one is best? वाद ुपाकरसाः ि न धा व ृ या ब ा पवचसः कषायानुरसाः प या लघवो मू ला हमाः ४ Svadu rasa – sweet taste Swadu paka – sweet taste conversion after digestion Snigdha – unctuous Vrushya – natural aphrodisiac Baddhalpavarchasaha – causes mild constipation, causes lesser volume of faeces Kashaya anurasa – mild astringent taste Pathya – suitable for daily consumption Laghu – light to digest Mutrala – diuretic, increases urine volume Hima – co
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 6: Annaswaroopa Food
15 Godhuma – Wheat benefits – व ृ यः शीतो गु ः ि न धो जीवनो वात प तहा १५ स धानकार मधुरो गोधूमः थैय कृत ् सरः प या न द मुखी शीता कषायमधुरा लघुः १६ Wheat is Vrushya – natural aphrodisiac Sheeta – cold Guru (Heavy to digest) Snigdha – unctuous, oily Jivaniya – enlivening Vatapittaha – balances Vata and Pitta Sandhanakari – heals fractures and wounds Madhura (sweet) Sthairyakrut – increases body stability Sara – promotes bowel movements Pathya – can be had on daily basis Nandimukhi variety of w
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 6: Annaswaroopa Food
Pathya – food that can be consumed habitually (on daily basis, for a long time) – शीलये छा लगोधूमयवषि टकजा गलम ् सु नष णकजीव तीबालमूलवा तुकम ् प यामलकम ृ वीकापटोल मु गशकराः घत ृ द योदक ीर ौ दा डमसै धवम ् Shali (rice), Godhuma (wheat), Yava – Barley – Hordeum vulgare, Shashtika (rice maturing in sixty days), Jangala (meat of animals of desert like lands), sunisannaka, Jivanti – Leptadenia reticulata, Balamulaka (young radish), Pathya (Haritaki) Amalaka (Amla – Indian gooseberry), Mridwika – dr
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 8: Food habits &
Pathya – food that can be consumed habitually (on daily basis, for a long time) – शीलये छा लगोधूमयवषि टकजा गलम ् सु नष णकजीव तीबालमूलवा तुकम ् प यामलकम ृ वीकापटोल मु गशकराः घत ृ द योदक ीर ौ दा डमसै धवम ् Shali (rice), Godhuma (wheat), Yava – Barley – Hordeum vulgare, Shashtika (rice maturing in sixty days), Jangala (meat of animals of desert like lands), sunisannaka, Jivanti – Leptadenia reticulata, Balamulaka (young radish), Pathya (Haritaki) Amalaka (Amla – Indian gooseberry), Mridwika – dr
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 8: Food habits &
Kashaya Varga (Gana) – group of astringents: वगःकषायः प या ं शर षः ख दरो मधु कद बोद ु बरं मु ता वाला जनगै रकम ् बालं क प थं खजूरं वसप ो पला द च Group of astringents consists of Pathya – Chebuic Myrobalan (fruit rind) – Terminalia chebula, Aksha – Terminalia bellirica, Shireesa, Khadira – Black catechu (heart wood extract) – Acacia catechu, Madhu (honey), Kadamba, Udumbara, Mukta (Pearls), Pravala (Coral), Anjana – Aqueous extract of Berberis aristata (antimony), Gairika – Purified Red Ochre, B
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 10: Rasabhediyam Tastes, Their
Kashaya कषायं ायशः शीतं त भनं चा यां वना Astringents are usually cold (in potency) and obstructive – except Abhaya – Chebulic Myrobalan (fruit rind) – Terminalia chebula.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 10: Rasabhediyam Tastes, Their
20 Treatment for over nourishing त मेदो नल ले मनाशनं सव म यते कुला थजूण यामाकयवमु गमधूदकम ् म त ुद डाहता र ट च ताशोधनजागरम ् मधुना फलां ल या गुडूचीमभयां घनम ् रसा जन य महतः प चमल ू य ग ु गल ु ोः शलाजतु] योग च साि नम थरसो हतः वड गं नागरं ारः काललोहरजो मधु यवामलक चूण च योगो अ त थौ यदोशिजत ् Treatments which reduce Medas- fat, Anila- Vata and Kapha are desirable; Use of Kulattha – horse gram – Dolichos Biflorus, Jurna, Shyamaka, Yava – Barley – Hordeum Vulgare, Mudga – green gram – Averr
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 14: Dvividha Upakramaneeya
Snehavyapat Cikitsa – treatment of bad effects :ु त ृ णो लेखन वेद ापाना नभे षजम ् त ा र टखलो ालयव यामाकको वम ् प पल यथा वं फला ौ प यागोमू गु गुलु तरोगं च नेह याप द साधनम ् Kshut, Trushna – Producing hunger, thirst, Ulleka, sveda – vomiting and perspiration, administering foods, drinks and medicines which are dry (cause dryness), use of Takrarista (fermented medicine from buttermilk), Khala – menu prepared from curds, Uddala, Yava (barley), Shyamaka, Kodrava, Pippali (long pepper), Triphala
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 16: Snehavidhi oleation therapy
Snehavyapat Cikitsa – treatment of bad effects :ु त ृ णो लेखन वेद ापाना नभे षजम ् त ा र टखलो ालयव यामाकको वम ् प पल यथा वं फला ौ प यागोमू गु गुलु तरोगं च नेह याप द साधनम ् Kshut, Trushna – Producing hunger, thirst, Ulleka, sveda – vomiting and perspiration, administering foods, drinks and medicines which are dry (cause dryness), use of Takrarista (fermented medicine from buttermilk), Khala – menu prepared from curds, Uddala, Yava (barley), Shyamaka, Kodrava, Pippali (long pepper), Triphala
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 16: Snehavidhi oleation therapy
फला प पल प यागु गु वा द वपा चतान ् नेहान ् यथा वमे तेषां योजयेद वका रणः In these conditions, fats boiled with Triphala, Pippali, Pathya, Guggulu, etc.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 16: Snehavidhi oleation therapy
Such as Castor oil mixed with Haritaki.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 18: Vamana Virechana Vidhi
Pathya - apathya याव यहा न यु जीत व ततो हतमांभवेत ् मालतीमि लकापु पैब ा ो नबसेि नशाम ् Those who have undergone tarpana and putapaka should adhere to - healthy foods and activities for double the number of days of these therapies; during nights, he should bind the eyes with a pad of flowers like malati, mallika etc.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 24: Tarpana Putpaka Vidhi
Source: Astanga Hridaya, Ch. 6, Ch. 6, Ch. 6, Ch. 6, Ch. 6, Ch. 8, Ch. 8, Ch. 10, Ch. 10, Ch. 14, Ch. 16, Ch. 16, Ch. 16, Ch. 18, Ch. 24
References in Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan
Haritaki कषाया मधुरा पाके ा वलवणा लघुः १५३ द पनी पाचनी मे या वयसः थापनी परम ् उ णवीया सरा आयु या बु ीि यबल दा १५४ कु ठवैव यवै वयपुराण वषम वरान ् शरो अ पा डु ोगकामला हणीगदान ् १५५ सशोषशोफातीसारमेदमोहव म मीन ् वासकास से काशः ल हानाहगरोदरम ् १५६ वब धं ोतसां गु ममू त भमरोचकम ् हर तक जये त ् या धं तां तां च कफवातजान ् १५७ Haritaki is astringent, sweet at the end of digestion, dry (causes dryness) devoid of lavana (possesses the remaining five tastes) easily digestable, kindles hunger
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Annaswaroopa Food
कटु पाके हमं के यम मीष च त गुणम ् Aksha (vibhitaka) is pungent at the end of digestion, cold in potency, good for hairs and possesses properties similar (to haritaki and amalaka) but slightly less (in degree).
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Annaswaroopa Food
Pathya – food that can be consumed habitually (on daily basis, for a long time) – शीलये छा लगोधूमयवषि टकजा गलम ् सु नष णकजीव तीबालमूलवा तुकम ् प यामलकम ृ वीकापटोल मु गशकराः घत ृ द योदक ीर ौ दा डमसै धवम ् Shali (rice), Godhuma (wheat), Yava – Barley – Hordeum vulgare, Shashtika (rice maturing in sixty days), Jangala (meat of animals of desert like lands), sunisannaka, Jivanti – Leptadenia reticulata, Balamulaka (young radish), Pathya (Haritaki) Amalaka (Amla – Indian gooseberry), Mridwika – dr
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Food habits &
Snehavyapat Cikitsa – treatment of bad effects :ु त ृ णो लेखन वेद ापाना नभे षजम ् त ा र टखलो ालयव यामाकको वम ् प पल यथा वं फला ौ प यागोमू गु गुलु तरोगं च नेह याप द साधनम ् Kshut, Trushna – Producing hunger, thirst, Ulleka, sveda – vomiting and perspiration, administering foods, drinks and medicines which are dry (cause dryness), use of Takrarista (fermented medicine from buttermilk), Khala – menu prepared from curds, Uddala, Yava (barley), Shyamaka, Kodrava, Pippali (long pepper), Triphala
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Snehavidhi oleation therapy
Such as Castor oil mixed with Haritaki.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Vamana Virechana Vidhi
Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Annaswaroopa Food; Food habits &; Snehavidhi oleation therapy; Vamana Virechana Vidhi
References in Charaka Samhita
Powders of haritaki, rock salt, amalaka, jaggery, vacha, vidanga, haridra, pippali and dry ginger should be taken with hot water by adequately oleated and fomented individuals.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 1: Rejuvenation Therapy (Rasayana Chikitsa / रसायन चिकित्सा)
Haritaki has five tastes without saltiness, is hot, wholesome, carminative, light, appetizer, digestive, life-promoting, tonic, excellent sustainer of youthfulness, relieves all diseases and affords sense-organ strength.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 1: Rejuvenation Therapy (Rasayana Chikitsa / रसायन चिकित्सा)
only bio-potency differs (haritaki is hot;
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 1: Rejuvenation Therapy (Rasayana Chikitsa / रसायन चिकित्सा)
Mixture of haritaki, dried ginger and devadaru taken with lukewarm water, or punarnava mixed with all the above drugs taken with cow‘s urine relieves swelling produced by all the three dosha.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा)
Take 100 pala each of kashmarya, amalaki, black pepper, haritaki, vibhitaki, pippali and grapes, add to it 100 pala of old jaggery and two drona of water, then put the mixture in a vessel lined with honey for 7 days in summer or for 14 days in winter for fermentation.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा)
Source: Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 1: Rejuvenation Therapy (Rasayana Chikitsa / रसायन चिकित्सा); Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा)
References in Sharangadhara Samhita
That which digests the waste materials and, breaking their bonds, moves them downward — that is Anulomana (carminative/mild laxative), like Haritaki (Terminalia chebula).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 4: Dipana-Pachana Adikathanam (Digestive Actions etc.)
That which destroys aging and disease is called Rasayana (rejuvenative), like Amrita/Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Rudanti (Capparis moonii), Guggulu (Commiphora mukul), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 4: Dipana-Pachana Adikathanam (Digestive Actions etc.)
Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is Shoshani (desiccating to semen).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 4: Dipana-Pachana Adikathanam (Digestive Actions etc.)
Pathyadi Kvatha: Pathya (Haritaki — Terminalia chebula), Nimba (neem — Azadirachta indica), Nidigdhika (Solanum xanthocarpum), Kiratatikta (Swertia chirayita), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), and Chandana (sandalwood — Santalum album) decoction alleviates Pitta Jvara (fever caused by Pitta).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 1: Svarasadikalpana (Svarasa, Kalka, Kvatha, etc.)
Pippali (long pepper — Piper longum), Maricha (black pepper — Piper nigrum), Shunthi (dry ginger), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Abhaya (Haritaki — Terminalia chebula), Katuka (Picrorhiza kurroa), Bharangi (Clerodendrum serratum), and Kantakari (Solanum xanthocarpum) — this decoction alleviates Jvara (fever).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 2: Kvathakalpana (Decoction Preparations)
Source: Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 4: Dipana-Pachana Adikathanam (Digestive Actions etc.); Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 1: Svarasadikalpana (Svarasa, Kalka, Kvatha, etc.); Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 2: Kvathakalpana (Decoction Preparations)
References in Sushruta Samhita
Madhuka (licorice), rajani (turmeric), pathya (haritaki), and devadaru (cedar) should be ground.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 9: Vatabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Vata-type Conjunctivitis)
Then washing of both eyes with pathya (haritaki) decoction, either fresh or aged.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga)
With flowers of kubjaka (rose), ashoka, shala (sal tree), amra (mango), priyangu, nalina (lotus), and utpala (blue lotus), combined with haritaki, krisna (black pepper), pathya (haritaki), and amalaka (gooseberry).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga)
Manashila (realgar), abhaya (haritaki), vyosha (trikatu), bala (Sida), and kalanusariva (dark Sariva).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga)
A Lehya (confection) of ghee, honey, Abhaya (Haritaki), and oil cures all-dosha fever.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 39: Jvarapratishedha
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 9: Vatabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Vata-type Conjunctivitis); Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga); Uttara Tantra, Chapter 39: Jvarapratishedha
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