Triphala: The Ayurvedic Miracle Cleanse

Triphala: The Miracle Detox

We’ve all had toxins in our systems at some point in time—maybe we still do, or perhaps we've had them in the past. The truth is this: Imbalance in anything, from stress and emotional well-being to environmental factors and dietary choices, can lead to the buildup of toxins, known as Ama, in the body. Ama settles in our tissues and affects our overall well-being. The impact of Ama can manifest as digestive imbalances, gas, lethargy, brain fog, confusion and more. By helping our bodies eliminate these toxins, we can make a significant difference in how we feel and improve our overall health day to day. This is why detoxes and cleanses have been around for so long—and why they remain popular. There are many different detoxes and cleanses out there, and it seems that a new one is “created” every other day. Before we discuss how to properly cleanse Ama from our systems, let’s first explore how Ama accumulates in our bodies.

What Is Ama?

Ama translates to “undigested food” and it is a byproduct of compromised digestion. In Ayurveda, compromised digestion is considered the root of all diseases. This is why it’s so important not to ignore digestive issues. Triphala supports the optimal function of agni, our digestive fire, which is the process of digestion. This powerful formula tones and strengthens the colon, improving nutrient absorption. It’s also an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. To put it simply, Triphala is pure goodness for us.

Triphala and Detox

You don’t need a major, multi-day cleanse to feel your best. Sometimes, it’s the small, consistent actions or rituals that make the biggest difference. Triphala is one of Ayurveda’s staples for daily detoxification and rejuvenation. It is what we call a “maintenance” herb, meaning it can be taken consistently for long periods of time without depletion. Personally, I’ve been taking Triphala every day for over 20 years to assist with daily body maintenance. The reason it’s considered a maintenance herb is because it helps remove what your body doesn’t need, while simultaneously nourishing your tissues. Most herbs either detox the body, depleting your system, or rejuvenate it, building your system. Triphala does both, which is quite special. So, if you’ve been feeling sluggish, bloated, or just a little “off,” Triphala offers a gentle reset that supports your body’s natural balance every day. Now that we know more about Triphala, let’s dive into its benefits.

What Is Triphala?

Triphala is one of the most widely used herbal formulations in Ayurveda. It is composed of three separate herbs: Amalaki, Bibhitaki and Haritaki—each with its own affinity to balance a particular dosha. Amalaki balances Pitta dosha, while Haritaki and Bibhitaki balance Vata and Kapha. What makes Triphala fascinating is that it has an effect on whichever dosha is out of balance at the time. The herbs needed to restore balance are automatically activated by the body’s own innate intelligence. Triphala is a daily wonder tonic that can be used consistently to support a lifetime of vitality.

Benefits of Triphala

Triphala supports the optimal function of our body and contains numerous benefits. Some of the key benefits of this miracle formula include:

• Detoxing the body and its tissues

• Supporting regular elimination and proper digestion

• Promoting natural rejuvenation of the body

• Nourishing bodily tissues

• Balancing all three doshas

For more on Triphala, check out our post on instagram.

How to Use Triphala

Triphala is best taken before bed, as your body undergoes most of its repair, rejuvenation, and cleansing processes overnight. Taking it before bed helps support these natural processes. The ideal way to take Triphala is as follows:

1. Start with 1/4 tsp of Triphala powder (this amount can be increased to 1/2 tsp over time)

2. Mix the Triphala powder with 2 ounces of warm water. The water must be warm to activate the herbs.

3. Drink it, ideally before bed.

Triphala is best taken in powder form because it allows your body to absorb the medicinal components more easily. It’s also available in tablet form, but Ayurveda recommends tasting herbs as the first step to absorption. Therefore, tablets should only be used if you absolutely cannot stand the taste of powdered Triphala.

A 1/4–1/2 tsp of Triphala powder is a good quantity for daily maintenance. It’s important to mix the powder in warm water, as this helps activate the medicinal actions of the herbs, making them more bioavailable to your body. Pro tip: Use just 2 ounces of water. We’re not making Triphala tea, just enough to dissolve the powder for easy consumption.

Where to Acquire Triphala

Sourcing your Ayurvedic herbs is very important to ensure they are ethically sourced. A quick background check on the company you’re buying from is always a good idea. Things to look for include:

• Sustainably grown and ethically harvested

• Fair-trade

• Organic

• Non-GMO

• B-Corp certified

If you’re located in the USA, Banyan Botanicals is a great place to source your Triphala. They grow and source their herbs ethically and sustainably, benefiting both us and the planet. On top of that, their herb quality is excellent.

Organic India is another reputable company offering a variety of Ayurvedic herbs, including Triphala powder.

Unfortunately, we don’t have experience with Ayurvedic companies located outside the USA. Both Banyan Botanicals and Organic India don’t ship internationally, so my suggestion is to check online marketplaces for their products. If you have a trusted source for ethical, high-quality Ayurvedic herbs outside the USA, we’d love for you to share it in the comments below. Your fellow readers would find that valuable.

Closing Thoughts

The power and beauty of Ayurveda lie in the simple habits that are part of our daily ritual, known as Dinacharya, as well as those that support bigger changes in our body. Daily use of Triphala at night is an important self-care practice that supports digestion, detoxification, and rejuvenation. I encourage you to incorporate it into your routine. You can find more information like this in my Ayurveda Food Alchemy Course, a course designed for those looking for simple ways to support their body’s balance on a daily basis.