Haritakiwhose scientific name is Chebulic myrobalanis a fruit obtained from the seeds of Terminal chebula trees. It’s also known by names equivalent to “Indian nut” or “Indian plum” and is sort of popular in Ayurvedic medicine.
In line with this traditional system, it’s a food of ” tridoshicnature”, that’s, it might probably balance the three doshas. In this fashion, it rebalances physical, mental, and spiritual health, especially within the case of diseases. What are its advantages? What does science say? Listed below are all of the small print.
Characteristics of haritaki
In Ayurvedic medicine, haritaki is often called “the king of medicines”. The fruit is formed like a drupe and measures between 2 and 4.5 centimeters long and between 1.2 and a couple of.5 centimeters wide. It also has 5 longitudinal ridges.
Depending on the variability, it can have a sweet, sour, or bitter taste. As well as, its color will likely be blackish-green when ripe. It normally grows in tropical and subtropical regions of India, Nepal, China, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
A powder is constituted of its peel and is commonly distributed for medicinal purposes. Nonetheless, it’s necessary to notice that several haritaki products are distinguished. These are the next:
- Vijaya
- Chetaki
- Rohini
- It could
- Jayanti
- Abhaya
- Amrita
We predict you might be excited by reading this, too: The Lychee: Dietary Properties, Advantages and Contraindications
Dietary properties of haritaki
Much of the advantages of haritaki are explained in its concentration of essential nutrients. To be more precise, the fruit is a source of vitamin C, manganese, selenium, potassium, iron, and copper.
In turn, as stated in an article published within the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicineit provides other phytoconstituents equivalent to the next:
- Fatty acids (linoleic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid)
- Tannins
- Amino acids
- Glucose
- Quinines
Resulting from this composition, it’s attributed to antibacterial, antitumor, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antiviral, and antispasmodic properties, amongst others. What’s it used for?
Uses and advantages of haritaki
The medicinal applications of haritaki are described in Ayurvedic and Tibetan books. In these traditional systems, it’s valued for its potential to forestall and treat disease. Nonetheless, evidence for its advantages stays limited. Thus, it’s necessary to make use of it with caution.
Digestive health
In Ayurvedic medicine, haritaki has been used as an adjuvant for detoxing of the digestive system. Its intake promotes bowel function and helps within the prevention of disorders equivalent to constipation.
As well as, amongst other things, it contributes to the relief of the next symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Flatulence
- Peptic ulcers
- Stomach acidity
- Abdominal spasms and colic
As well as, it’s believed that this fruit stimulates the secretion of digestive juices, decreases inflammation, and promotes the balance of healthy bacteria within the intestine.
Immune system
Haritaki extract is used as a complement to strengthen the immune system. Its antifungal, antiviraland antibacterial properties contribute to the prevention of infections. As well as, its vitamin C supply stimulates leukocyte functions, which can be key to optimizing defenses.
For all the above, the treatment is related to the prevention of the next diseases:
- Allergies
- Skin infections
- Conjunctivitis
- Respiratory tract infections
- Intestinal infections
- Autoimmune diseases (arthritis, lupus, celiac disease)
Metabolic health
The phytoconstituents in haritakiespecially tannins, fatty acids, and amino acids, have a positive impact on metabolic health. An animal study reported in Phytotherapy Research associates the consumption of this fruit with the prevention of high blood glucose levels, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, and other aspects linked to metabolic syndrome.
Inflammation and oxidative stress
The abundant supply of antioxidants in haritaki is useful in regulating the body’s inflammatory processes and reducing the negative effects of oxidative stress. Specifically, its intake is related to a rise in glutathione and superoxide dismutasethat are key to fighting free radicals.
Due to these effects, haritaki supplementation is believed to have neuroprotective and antitumor effects. Its moderate consumption contributes to reducing the danger of chronic diseases that impair quality of life.
Cardiovascular health
Although evidence is restricted, this fruit is related to good heart health. Popular literature suggests that it contributes to improving blood flow, which might favor blood pressure control. As well as, resulting from its antioxidant and anti inflammatory capability, it could stimulate the elimination of bad cholesterol and contribute to the prevention of atherosclerosis.
Other advantages of haritaki
- Moderate consumption of haritaki serves as an adjunct to weight reduction. Specifically, it decreases food cravings and promotes optimal metabolic functioning.
- Topical use of haritaki extracts is beneficial for the prevention of skin infections. It’s even believed to assist fight pimples and promote healing.
- Its application on the scalp reduces the presence of dandruff, itching, and excessive hair loss. As well as, it leaves a silky and healthy appearance.
Haritaki dosages and presentations
Haritaki is often available in powder, capsules, and tea. Dosages may vary based on the sort and manufacturer.
Generally, they vary from 1 to five grams per day, twice a day, diluted in warm water or milk with honey. In any case, it’s essential to all the time seek the advice of the label and respect the consumption recommendations.
To be used as a topical treatment, the powder may be combined with rose water, coconut oil or honey. It’s rubbed on the skin, so long as there aren’t any open wounds. Also, diluted in water, it might probably be applied to the scalp.
Like this text? You could also prefer to read: Horse Mackerel, a Fish with an Excellent Dietary Value
Risks and possible uncomfortable side effects
Despite its advantages, haritaki may end in some uncomfortable side effects, especially when taken without the supervision of an Ayurvedic or general practitioner. These reactions include the next:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Stomatitis
- Dehydration
- Jaw stiffness
- Dietary deficiencies
Nonetheless, resulting from its hypoglycemic qualities, its simultaneous consumption with diabetes medications ought to be avoided. The truth is, the perfect is to be oriented in case of taking any form of drug. In these cases, it may reduce or enhance its effects, putting health in danger.
For safety, it’s best to avoid its administration in children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and patients with chronic diseases. Within the latter case, a health care provider ought to be consulted first.
What to recollect about haritaki
In Ayurvedic medicine, haritaki is a widely known treatment for boosting metabolism, improving defenses, and protecting the cardiovascular system. Even so, its use ought to be prudent, under the supervision of an Ayurvedic or general practitioner.
It isn’t considered a first-choice treatment in case of diseases and isn’t exempt from causing uncomfortable side effects. Subsequently, it’s advisable to take only the doses suggested by the manufacturer.
Although it might probably be applied as a topical treatment, it’s an excellent idea to check it before use. Just put a small amount on one in every of the skin areas and wait 12 to 24 hours. If there aren’t any undesired reactions, it might probably be used without problem.
It’d interest you…
