Terminalia bellirica

Introduction

It is one of the three fruits in the famous Ayurvedic formulation Triphala (along with Terminalia chebula and Phyllanthus emblica). The fruit of T. bellirica is traditionally used for respiratory health, digestion, detoxification, eye disorders, and longevity. In Ayurveda, it is called Bibhitaki, meaning "fearless of disease," highlighting its importance in traditional medicine.

Phytochemistry

Terminalia bellirica is rich in bioactive compounds, particularly tannins, phenolic acids, and glycosides. Key constituents include:

• Tannins: Gallotannins, ellagic acid, chebulagic acid

• Lignans & Glycosides: Termilignan, thannilignan, bellaricanin

• Flavonoids: Rutin, quercetin, kaempferol

• Fatty acids in seeds: Linoleic acid, palmitic acid, oleic acid

• Others: β-sitosterol, gallic acid, ethyl gallate
  These compounds contribute to its antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, and hepatoprotective effects.

Traditional Uses

In Ayurveda, Terminalia bellirica balances Kapha and Pitta doshas and is used for:

• Chronic cough, asthma, and sore throat

• Digestive issues like constipation, dyspepsia, and parasitic infections

• Eye disorders, skin diseases, and hair care

• Purifying blood and enhancing longevity
  In Unani medicine, it is used as a laxative, expectorant, and tonic for brain and heart health.

Medicinal Uses

• Respiratory Health: Acts as an expectorant and bronchodilator; used for asthma, bronchitis, and laryngitis.

• Digestive & Liver Support: Enhances digestion, improves gut microbiota, protects liver cells from toxins.

• Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory: High polyphenol content prevents oxidative stress, cellular damage, and chronic inflammation.

• Antimicrobial: Effective against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, E.coli, and fungal pathogens.

• Blood Sugar & Lipid Regulation: Studies indicate hypoglycemic and cholesterol-lowering properties.

• Eye & Hair Care: Traditionally used in kohl/anjan for vision and in hair oils to prevent premature greying and dandruff.

Emerging Research – Anti-Cancer and Antiviral Potential

Recent studies have shown that extracts of Terminalia bellirica contain gallic acid, chebulagic acid, and ellagic acid, which can induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain cancer cell lines, including breast, liver, and colon cancer cells. These compounds suppress tumor growth by inhibiting oxidative stress, stopping cell proliferation, and modulating proteins like caspase-3 and p53. Additionally, research shows potential antiviral activity against influenza, hepatitis, and HSV, though more clinical trials are needed.

References

1. Reddy, V.P. et al. “Phytochemical and pharmacological profile of Terminalia bellirica.” Journal of Pharmacognosy & Phytochemistry.

2. Hazra, B. et al. “Antioxidant and free radical-scavenging effects of T. bellirica.” Natural Product Communications.

3. Choudhary G.P. “Anti-diabetic activity of T. bellirica fruit extract.” https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2012.04.016

4. Gupta, P.C. “Biological and pharmacological properties of Terminalia bellirica.” Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine.

5. Baliga, M.S. “Triphala and its constituents: A review on traditional and modern applications.” PMID: 19754072

6. Pharmacopoeia of India – Ayurvedic standards for Terminalia bellirica.

Bibhitaki

Fearless of disease