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Description
Terminalia chebula is a deciduous tree native to South and Southeast Asia and is one of the most revered medicinal plants in Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani medicine. The dried fruit is the primary medicinal part and has been used for centuries as a Rasayana herb associated with longevity, digestion, detoxification, and metabolic balance. It is a key constituent of the classical formulation Triphala, alongside Terminalia bellirica and Phyllanthus emblica.
Phytochemical Profile
The biological activity of T. chebula is attributed to its high concentration of hydrolyzable tannins and polyphenols, including:
Chebulagic acid
Chebulinic acid
Gallic acid
Ellagic acid
Corilagin
Flavonoids and phenolic acids
These compounds exhibit strong redox activity and contribute to the plant’s antioxidant, antimicrobial, and enzyme-modulating effects.
Traditional & Medicinal Uses
In Ayurveda, Haritaki is considered one of the three fruits of the classical formulation Triphala. It is revered as a Rasāyana (rejuvenative) promoting longevity and digestive health.
Traditional uses include:
Improving digestion and elimination
Supporting respiratory and liver function
Managing sore throats, coughs, and oral ulcers
Astringent for chronic diarrhea and dysentery
Topical use for wound healing
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is prescribed to “astringe the lungs and intestines,” easing chronic diarrhea and cough. The fruits are also a source of natural dyes and tannins for leather treatment.
Medical Benefits
Usage
Antioxidant & Cytoprotective Activity
Extensive in-vitro and in-vivo studies demonstrate that Terminalia chebula fruit extracts possess potent antioxidant capacity, including free-radical scavenging, lipid peroxidation inhibition, and upregulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes. Chebulagic and chebulinic acids are considered primary contributors to these effects, supporting cellular protection against oxidative stress.
Gastrointestinal & Metabolic Effects
Traditionally classified as a digestive tonic, modern research supports T. chebula’s role in gastrointestinal regulation, including modulation of gut microbiota, enhancement of digestive enzyme activity, and protection of gastric mucosa. Experimental studies suggest beneficial effects on glucose and lipid metabolism, positioning the fruit as a candidate for metabolic health support.
Antimicrobial & Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Terminalia chebula exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacterial and fungal pathogens, attributed largely to its tannin content. Anti-inflammatory mechanisms include suppression of pro-inflammatory mediators and inhibition of oxidative inflammatory pathways, supporting its traditional use in inflammatory and infectious conditions.
Neuroprotective & Systemic Effects
Emerging research indicates potential neuroprotective and cardioprotective effects, likely mediated through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways. Network pharmacology studies suggest interactions with multiple molecular targets involved in oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular signaling, aligning with its historical reputation as a rejuvenative herb.
Standardized extract (20% bacosides):
• 300–450 mg/day (most common dose in clinical trials).
• Often taken in 2 divided doses with meals.
• Duration: benefits usually appear after 8–12 weeks of consistent use.Traditional Ayurvedic use (whole plant powder):
• 2–3 grams/day, usually taken with ghee, milk, or honey to improve absorption.
Memory and cognition:
• Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) improves memory in healthy adults – systematic reviewNeuroprotective mechanisms:
• Bacopa monnieri and cognitive enhancement – antioxidant and cholinergic modulationMood and stress:
• Adaptogenic and anxiolytic activity of Bacopa monnieri in humans
