Haritaki for Allergies: Does It Work?
Does Haritaki (Chebulic Myrobalan) help with allergies? Yes, particularly for the chronic upstream pattern that drives recurrent allergic disease. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu opens with Haritaki as the first and most important drug it describes, calls it Abhaya ("fearless of disease"), and classifies it as Sarva Roga Prashamani (pacifier of all diseases) and Tridosha Shamaka. The classical home protocol for allergies positions Triphala at the centre of the all-types prevention strategy: "For all three types of allergies, one can take half to one teaspoon of Triphala at night." Haritaki is the Vata-pacifying herb in that combination.
The Ayurvedic case for Haritaki on allergies rests on three property facts. Haritaki has five of the six tastes (all except salty), with astringent (Kashaya Rasa) predominant; hot in potency, sweet in post-digestive effect (Madhura Vipaka); and balances all three doshas. This unusually broad rasa profile is what makes it a tridoshic herb. Among the three Triphala components, Haritaki specifically acts on Vata dosha (Amla on Pitta, Bibhitaki on Kapha), which positions it as the primary Triphala herb for Vata-type allergies. Modern phytochemistry has documented hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activity for Terminalia chebula extracts, with reported effects on cellular allergy markers and Th1/Th2 balance.
Haritaki is the lead herb for Vata-type allergies (dry, variable, sneezing-dominant, multiple unrelated triggers, anxiety-coupled allergic reactions, hypersensitivity to cold and dry air) where its Anulomani action (regulating downward movement of Vata) and Vata-pacifying properties work directly on the dosha picture. As the Vata third of Triphala, it is also the central herb in the universal allergy prevention protocol across all three patterns. Haritaki's Ama-clearing and gut-regulating action addresses the upstream root that classical Ayurveda identifies for chronic allergic disease: weak Agni producing Ama that primes the immune system for hypersensitivity. For acute Pitta-skin flares, Haritaki is less directly indicated and should not be used during the contraindicated states (pregnancy, weak/emaciated state, fasting) listed in the Bhavaprakash.
How Haritaki Helps with Allergies
Haritaki addresses allergies through three connected mechanisms. They cover the gut-Ama upstream root, the Vata-regulating channel-clearing action, and the systemic Rasayana effect that makes Haritaki a long-arc preventive rather than just a short-course remedy.
Anulomani action and gut-Ama clearance
The Bhavaprakash classifies Haritaki as Anulomani, the herb that facilitates downward movement of Vata. For allergies specifically, this matters because the Ayurvedic pathogenesis identifies Ama in the gut as the upstream trigger of chronic allergic hypersensitivity: undigested food residue crosses the gut wall, primes the immune system, and produces reactivity to subsequent exposures. Haritaki's Anulomani action, combined with its Bhedini (mild purgative) quality, clears the gut-Ama burden and restores regular elimination, which is the foundation that the editorial home protocol identifies for "all three types of allergies". Modern research on Haritaki extracts has documented prebiotic activity, gut-barrier protective effects, and reduction of intestinal inflammatory markers, all of which align with the classical mechanism. This is why Triphala (in which Haritaki is the Vata component) is positioned as the universal allergy preventive.
Vata-pacifying action on nervous-system hypersensitivity
Vata-type allergies in classical Ayurveda are characterised by variable, unpredictable symptoms, sneezing fits, dry skin reactions, anxiety-coupled allergic responses, and multiple unrelated sensitivities (food, environmental, chemical) rather than one clear trigger. The pattern reflects nervous-system hypersensitivity coupled with Vata aggravation in the pranavaha srotas (respiratory channels) and twak (skin). Haritaki's primary action among the three Triphala herbs is on Vata dosha; it pacifies the erratic, dry, hypersensitive Vata pattern that produces this allergy type. The Bhavaprakash also lists Haritaki as Medhya (intellect-promoting) and notes it strengthens nerves, which addresses the nervous-system component of Vata-type allergies. For people whose allergic flares track stress, irregular routine, anxiety, and travel, this Vata-and-nervous-system action is the mechanism that distinguishes Haritaki from purely anti-inflammatory herbs.
Rasayana action on Ojas and immune resilience
Haritaki is classified as Rasayana and Ayushya (longevity-promoting), and the Bhavaprakash notes that it supports Buddhi (intellect), strength, and nourishes the senses when taken with meals. For chronic allergic disease, this matters because the underlying picture is depleted Ojas and weakened Vyadhikshamatva. The Rasayana effect is what produces sustained immune resilience over months and years, the same long-arc Vyadhikshamatva-restoring action that Guduchi and Turmeric work through. Haritaki's distinguishing feature is the seasonal anupana variation prescribed in the Bhavaprakash: with rock salt in monsoon (Varsha), sugar in autumn (Sharad), dry ginger in early winter (Hemanta), long pepper in late winter (Shishira), honey in spring (Vasanta), and jaggery in summer (Grishma). This seasonal adaptation is the classical mechanism for matching Haritaki's effect to the dosha that peaks in each season, which is exactly the dosha that drives the seasonal allergy pattern in that period.
How to Use Haritaki for Allergies
Haritaki for allergies is most often used in two forms: as Triphala (the classical universal preventive across all three allergy types), and as plain Haritaki powder or chewed Haritaki for Vata-type allergies specifically. The Bhavaprakash describes seasonal anupana variations that adapt Haritaki to the dominant dosha of each season, an unusually precise prescription pattern.
Best preparation form for allergies
For universal allergy prevention across all three patterns, Triphala is the classical form because the three component herbs cover Vata (Haritaki), Pitta (Amla), and Kapha (Bibhitaki) together. For Vata-type allergies specifically with variable symptoms, anxiety component, dry skin reactions, or sneezing-dominant pattern, plain Haritaki powder or chewed Haritaki (Charvana) is the lead form. For Vata-type allergic anaemia, the editorial protocol describes Gandharva Haritaki (Haritaki roasted in castor oil in an iron pan), 1/2 teaspoon at bedtime for 2 months.
| Form | Dose | How to use |
|---|---|---|
| Triphala powder | 1/2 to 1 tsp at night | In warm water before bed; the universal allergy preventive across all three types |
| Haritaki powder | 1 to 3 g daily | Mix with seasonal anupana, take before bed; for Vata-type allergies |
| Haritaki Charvana (chewed) | 1 dried fruit, chewed slowly | Before meals; kindles Agni and clears Ama; classical preparation for digestive-driven allergies |
| Gandharva Haritaki | 1/2 tsp at bedtime | Haritaki powder roasted in castor oil in iron pan, with warm water; for Vata-anaemia and chronic Vata pattern |
| Haritaki decoction (Kwatha) | 50 ml twice daily | For acute use; absorbent and Grahi action when diarrhoea is part of allergic picture |
| Capsule/tablet | 250 to 500 mg, 1 to 2 times daily | For convenience; with warm water before meals |
Seasonal anupana for Haritaki (the classical Bhavaprakash protocol)
This is the most distinctive aspect of using Haritaki for chronic allergies, because it adapts the herb to whichever dosha is peaking in the season:
- Vasanta (Spring): with honey (Madhu). Spring is Kapha season; honey is Kapha-clearing. This is the period of peak hay fever and Kapha-type allergic rhinitis.
- Grishma (Summer): with jaggery (Guda). Summer is Pitta season; jaggery balances the heat. Useful for Pitta-type allergic skin flares.
- Varsha (Monsoon): with rock salt (Saindhava Lavana). Monsoon disrupts Agni and increases Ama; salt supports digestion.
- Sharad (Autumn): with sugar (Sharkara). Autumn is when Pitta accumulated through summer reaches peak; sugar cools.
- Hemanta (Early winter): with dry ginger (Shunthi). Cold weather aggravates Vata; ginger warms.
- Shishira (Late winter): with Pippali (long pepper). Vata-Kapha transition; Pippali clears the Kapha that has built up while staying warming.
Anupana for each allergy pattern
- Vata-type allergies (dry, variable, sneezing-dominant): Haritaki in warm water with a small spoon of ghee at night, or Triphala powder in warm water before bed. Add Gandharva Haritaki for stronger Vata-clearing if anaemia or anxiety component is present.
- Pitta-type allergies (rash, hives, urticaria): Triphala at the standard dose at night for the Amla component's Pitta cooling; Haritaki alone is less directly indicated for active Pitta-skin flares.
- Kapha-type allergies (sinus congestion, mucus): Haritaki with honey; or Triphala which contains the Kapha-clearing Bibhitaki component. Particularly indicated during the spring (Vasanta) season.
Combining with other allergy herbs
- Haritaki in Triphala: the central daily preventive across all three patterns; pair with Guduchi for the immune-regulation layer and Turmeric for the inflammatory layer.
- Haritaki plus Ashwagandha plus Bala: the classical Vata-allergy formula at 1 part each, 1/4 tsp three times daily; addresses the nervous-system hypersensitivity component.
- Gandharva Haritaki for Vata-allergic anaemia: described in the editorial source as Haritaki powder roasted in castor oil in an iron pan, 1/2 tsp at bedtime for 2 months.
Duration and what to expect
For universal allergy prevention with Triphala, expect baseline reactivity (frequency of flares, gut regularity, sleep quality) to begin reducing after 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use, with full benefit on the inter-flare baseline appearing between three and six months. For Vata-type allergies specifically, give the Haritaki-Ashwagandha-Bala protocol 8 to 12 weeks for clear improvement in the variable-trigger pattern. Triphala is one of the safest Ayurvedic formulas for years-long daily use.
Important contraindications
The Bhavaprakash explicitly lists contraindications for Haritaki that matter in allergic disease:
- Pregnancy: avoid Haritaki and Triphala during pregnancy; the purgative action can stimulate uterine contractions.
- Weak or emaciated states: people in significant convalescence, recent illness, or chronic exhaustion should avoid Haritaki, which depletes through its scraping action.
- Excessive thirst, fasting, or fatigue from walking: these states already show depleted fluids and Vata aggravation; Haritaki amplifies both.
- Pitta predominance with dryness: avoid plain Haritaki; use only Triphala (where Amla counterbalances) and at lower doses.
- After Raktamokshana (bloodletting) or recent significant blood loss: avoid Haritaki until rebuilt.
Beyond the classical contraindications, modern caution applies for people on warfarin or antiplatelet medications because of mild blood-thinning activity in Triphala; stop two weeks before any planned surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Haritaki alone or Triphala for allergies, which should I use?
Triphala is the universal allergy preventive across all three patterns; Haritaki alone is the lead form when Vata-type allergies are dominant. Triphala combines Haritaki (Vata-pacifying), Amla (Pitta-pacifying), and Bibhitaki (Kapha-pacifying), so it covers all three doshas in one formula. The editorial home protocol specifically recommends Triphala for "all three types of allergies, half to one teaspoon at night". Use plain Haritaki when the picture is clearly Vata-dominant: variable symptoms, anxiety component, multiple unrelated triggers, dry skin reactions, sneezing fits triggered by cold or wind. For most chronic year-round allergies, Triphala is the better default.
Can I take Triphala or Haritaki long-term?
Triphala is one of the safest Ayurvedic formulas for years-long daily use; classical texts position it as a daily Rasayana. Plain Haritaki at 1 to 3 g daily is also generally well tolerated for sustained use, though the Bhavaprakash lists specific contraindicated states where it should be avoided. The seasonal anupana variations (different vehicles in different seasons) are part of the classical pattern for sustained use; rotating the anupana through the year keeps Haritaki's effect aligned with the dominant dosha of each season. For chronic allergies, the long-arc Triphala protocol is what most classical texts position as the preventive baseline, with shorter targeted herbs added during active flares.
How long does Haritaki or Triphala take to work for chronic allergies?
For Triphala as the universal allergy preventive, expect baseline reactivity (frequency of flares, regularity of bowel movement, sleep quality, energy) to begin reducing after 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use. Full benefit on the inter-flare baseline typically appears between three and six months. The mechanism works upstream through gut-Ama clearance and Vyadhikshamatva restoration, which compounds over months. For Vata-type allergies specifically, the Haritaki-Ashwagandha-Bala protocol generally shows clear improvement in 8 to 12 weeks. Stopping at four weeks because flares are still happening is the common reason people conclude the protocol did not work; the upstream remodelling is slower than symptom suppression.
Why is Haritaki contraindicated in pregnancy?
Haritaki is mildly purgative and the classical concern is that the downward-clearing action (Anulomani, Bhedini) can stimulate uterine contractions in late pregnancy and potentially contribute to miscarriage risk in early pregnancy. The Bhavaprakash explicitly lists pregnant women among the contraindicated states for Haritaki. The same caution applies to Triphala, which contains Haritaki. For chronic allergies during pregnancy, avoid both Haritaki and Triphala; switch to gentler Pitta-cooling herbs like Amla alone (the Pitta third of Triphala without the purgative Vata-clearing action) or to Guduchi. Topical interventions (Neem oil for skin allergies, Tulsi steam for sinus allergies) remain acceptable during pregnancy at standard exposures.
Does the Bhavaprakash seasonal anupana protocol actually matter for allergies?
Yes, and it is one of the underused features of classical Haritaki use. The seasonal allergies pattern in modern allergology maps onto the classical seasonal dosha pattern with surprising precision: spring hay fever is Kapha; summer Pitta-skin flares are Pitta; autumn variable rhinitis is Pitta-to-Vata transition. The Bhavaprakash anupana rotation (honey in spring, jaggery in summer, sugar in autumn, dry ginger in early winter, long pepper in late winter, rock salt in monsoon) is built around supporting Haritaki's effect on whichever dosha is peaking in that season. For chronic allergies that flare seasonally, switching the Haritaki anupana through the year is the classical adaptation that matches the herb's effect to the changing dosha picture, rather than using the same vehicle year-round.
Recommended: Start Haritaki for Allergies
If you want to start using Haritaki for allergies today, here is the simplest starting point: Triphala 1/2 to 1 teaspoon in warm water at bedtime, daily. This is the classical universal allergy preventive across all three dosha patterns, and Haritaki is the Vata-component of the formula.
Best form: Triphala for universal allergy prevention across all three patterns. Plain Haritaki powder for Vata-type allergies (variable symptoms, anxiety, multiple triggers, dry reactions). Gandharva Haritaki (Haritaki roasted in castor oil in iron pan) for Vata-anaemia and chronic depleted Vata pattern. Avoid generic Haritaki capsules without source verification; pharmacopoeia-grade powder or whole dried fruit is more reliable.
Kitchen version you can start tonight: Mix 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder in 1 cup of warm water; let steep for 5 minutes (or simply stir and drink); take just before bed. Continue daily. For Vata-type allergies specifically, add 1 to 2 g of plain Haritaki powder to the Triphala, or use the seasonal anupana protocol: with honey in spring, jaggery in summer, dry ginger in early winter.
Match the form to the allergy pattern:
- Vata-type allergies (dry, variable, sneezing-dominant, anxiety-coupled): Haritaki in warm water with ghee at night, or the classical Haritaki + Ashwagandha + Bala 1:1:1 formula at 1/4 tsp three times daily.
- Pitta-type allergies (rash, hives, urticaria): Triphala at standard dose for the Amla cooling component; Haritaki alone is less directly indicated.
- Kapha-type allergies (sinus congestion, mucus): Haritaki with honey, especially in spring (Vasanta) season; or Triphala for the Bibhitaki Kapha-clearing component.
Find Triphala Powder on Amazon ↗ Find Haritaki Powder on Amazon ↗
Critical safety note: Avoid Haritaki and Triphala during pregnancy; the purgative action can stimulate uterine contractions. Avoid in weak or emaciated states, during fasting, or after recent significant blood loss. Use cautiously with Pitta-predominant constitutions and dryness. Stop high-dose Triphala two weeks before any planned surgery due to mild blood-thinning activity. For severe allergic reactions with anaphylaxis, seek emergency medical care; herbs are not a substitute.
Safety & Precautions
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.
Other Herbs for Allergies
See all herbs for allergies on the Allergies page.
▶ Classical Text References (6 sources)
- 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
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
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
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)
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)
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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