One of the three components of the well-known Ayurvedic preparation Triphala, along with Amalaki, Haritaki, and Vibhitaki.
The name ‘Haritaki’ means “that which cleans and shines the body.”

Botanical name: Terminalia chebula

Sanskrit name: Haritaki, Abhaya, Vijaya, Pathya 

English name: Chebulic myrobalan

Malayalam name: Katukka

Arabic name: Haleelaz

• Medicinal Properties of Haritaki

Anti-inflammatory- Acts against Inflammation	Hepatoprotective- Protects the Liver
Wound healing	Laxative- Treats Constipation
Prokinetic (Improves Gastrointestinal motility)	Immunomodulator- Enhances Immunity
Renoprotective- Protects the Kidneys	Anti-neoplastic- Acts against Cancer cells
Cardioprotective- Protects the Heart	Hypolipidemic- Acts against high Cholesterol levels
Anti-diabetic	Rejuvenation- Enhanced longevity
Digestive -Improves Digestive fire	Antioxidant
Anti-microbial	Anti-helminthic- Acts against Worms

-Also proven to cure Haemorrhoids, Splenomegaly, Anaemia, Ascites, Impotency, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Renal Calculus, Gout, etc.

• Rithu Haritaki

Haritaki is given as a Rejuvenative combined with other adjuvants (Drugs that enhances the potency of other drugs when combined) in different seasons. This is known as Rithu Haritaki.

-In Monsoon Season, it is given with Rock Salt.

-In Autumn, it is given with Sugar.

-In Early Winter, it is given with Dry Ginger.

-In Late Winter, it is given with Long Pepper.

-In Spring, it is given with Honey.

-In Summer, it is given with Jaggery.

• Phytoconstituents of Haritaki

-Chebulagic acid, Chebulic acid, Tannic acid, Gallic acid, Terchebulin, etc.

• Side-effects of Haritaki

-Haritaki should be avoided by women who are pregnant or nursing since it may alter the fetus’ weight and lessen the volume of breastmilk produced.

-Haritaki should not be given to children under the age of five.

-May worsen Gastritis in some patients.

• Ayurvedic Formulations containing Haritaki

-Abhayarishtam

-Triphala Choornam

-Dashamoola Haritaki

-Dhatryavaleha

-Pathyakshadhatyradi Kashayam

-Pathyashadangam Kashayam

• Home Remedies containing Haritaki

5g Haritaki powder can be taken with 1-2 tsp of Ghee or Honey at night for gut cleansing 

CAUTION: All medications described here are being used solely for educational reasons. This does not replace seeking expert medical advice. Before using any drugs, please seek the advice of a licensed Ayurvedic practitioner. Please keep out of the reach of children.

Click here to know more about Amalaki, one of the components of Triphala.