Haritakiscientific name Chebulic myrobalanit is a fruit that is obtained from the seeds of trees Terminalia chebula. It is also known by names such as “Indian nut” or “Indian plum” and is quite popular in Ayurvedic medicine.
According to this traditional system, it is a “natural” food. tridoshic», that is, it can balance all three doshas. In this way it balances physical, mental and spiritual health, especially in case of illness. What are its advantages? What does science say? We detail it below.
Features Haritaki
In Ayurvedic medicine, the haritaki He is known as “the king of medicines”. The fruit has a drupe-like shape and is 2–4.5 centimeters long and 1.2–2.5 centimeters wide. It also has 5 longitudinal ridges.
According to its variety, It can taste sweet, sour or bitter. Also, its color is usually blackish-green when ripe. It usually grows in tropical and subtropical regions of India, Nepal, China, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Vietnam.
From its shell a powder is obtained which is usually distributed for medicinal purposes. However, it is important to note that several products stand out haritaki. These are the following:
- Vijaya.
- Chetaki.
- Rohini.
- whore.
- Jayanti.
- Abhaya.
- Amrita.
Nutritional properties of haritaki
Most of the benefits of haritaki They are explained in their concentration of essential nutrients. To be more precise, the fruit it is a source of vitamin C, manganese, selenium, potassium, iron and copper.
In turn, as explained by a article published in Asia Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicineprovides other phytoconstituents such as the following:
- Fatty acids (linoleic acid, oleic acid and palmitic acid).
- tannins.
- Amino acids.
- Glucose.
- Quinines.
Due to this composition, they are attributed antibacterial, anticancer, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antiviral and antispasmodic properties, Moreover. What is needed?
Uses and benefits of haritaki
THE medicinal applications of the haritaki They are described in Ayurvedic and Tibetan books. In these traditional systems It is valued for its potential to prevent and treat disease. However, evidence on its benefits remains limited. Therefore, it is important to use it with caution.
digestive health
In Ayurvedic medicine, He haritaki It has been used as an aid in detoxification of the digestive system. Your intake promotes intestinal function and helps prevent ailments such as constipation.
It also helps relieve the following symptoms, among other things:
- Diarrhea.
- Flatulence.
- Peptic ulcers.
- Stomach ache.
- Abdominal spasms and cramps.
In addition to the above, it is believed that This fruit stimulates the secretion of digestive juices, reduces inflammation and supports the balance of healthy bacteria in the gut.
Immune system
The extract of haritaki It is used as a supplement to strengthen the immune system. Its antifungal properties, antivirals and antibacterial contribute to the prevention of infections. Plus your input C vitamin stimulates leukocyte functions, which is also the key to optimizing defenses.
For all of the above, the remedy is associated with the prevention of the following diseases:
- allergies.
- Skin infections.
- Conjunctivitis.
- Respiratory tract infections.
- intestinal infections.
- Autoimmune diseases (arthritis, lupus, celiac disease).
metabolic health
The phytoconstituents of haritaki, especially tannins, fatty acids and amino acids, have a positive impact on metabolic health. A animal study reported in Phytotherapy Research associate the consumption of this fruit with the prevention of high blood glucose levels, insulin resistance, high cholesterol and other factors related to metabolic syndrome.
Inflammation and oxidative stress
The abundant supply of antioxidants in the haritaki it is useful for regulating inflammatory processes in the body and reducing the negative effects of oxidative stress. Specific, its intake is related to the increase of glutathione and superoxide dismutasekeys to fighting free radicals.
Due to these effects, supplementation with haritaki has neuroprotective effects and anticancer. Its moderate consumption helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases that compromise the quality of life.
Cardiovascular health
Although the evidence is limited, This fruit is linked to good heart health. Popular literature suggests that it helps improve blood flow, which would help control blood pressure. Furthermore, thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity, it would stimulate the elimination of cholesterol Bad and would contribute to the prevention of atherosclerosis.
Other benefits of haritaki
- Moderate consumption of haritaki serves as a weight loss supplement. In particular, it reduces anxiety about food and promotes optimal metabolism.
- The topical use of the extracts of this fruit It is useful for the prevention of skin infections. It is even believed to help fight acne and more promotes healing.
- Its application on the scalp reduces the presence of dandruff, itching and excessive hair loss. In addition, it leaves a silky and healthy appearance.
Doses and presentations of haritaki
Often, He haritaki it is available in powder, capsule and tea form. Doses may vary depending on the type and manufacturer.
They generally range from 1 to 5 grams per day, 2 times a day, diluted in warm water or milk with honey. In any case, it is essential to always consult the label and respect the consumption recommendations.
For use as a topical remedy, The powder can be combined with rose water, coconut oil or honey. It is rubbed into the skin, provided there are no open wounds. Similarly, diluted in water it can be applied to the scalp.
Risks and possible side effects
Despite its benefits, He haritaki it can lead to some side effects especially when taken without the supervision of the Ayurvedic practitioner or general practitioner. These reactions include the following:
- Fever.
- Fatigue.
- Diarrhea.
- Stomatitis.
- dehydration.
- Jaw stiffness.
- Nutritional deficiencies.
However, due to its hypoglycemic qualities, its simultaneous consumption with diabetes medications should be avoided. Indeed, the ideal is to orient yourself in case you are taking any kind of medicine. In these cases, It can reduce or increase its effects, which puts your health at risk.
For safety, it is best to avoid its administration in children, pregnant or breastfeeding women and patients with chronic diseases. In the latter case, you should first consult your doctor.
What is there to remember about haritaki?
In Ayurvedic medicine, the haritaki is a known remedy for increase metabolism, improve defenses and protect the cardiovascular system. Even so, its use should be prudent, under the supervision of an Ayurvedic or general practitioner.
It is not considered a first choice treatment in case of diseases and it is not free from side effects. Therefore, it is advisable to take only the doses recommended by the manufacturer.
Although it can be applied as a topical remedy, It is recommended to test before using it. Just put a small amount on one of the skin areas and wait 12-24 hours. If there are no unwanted reactions, it can be used without any problems.
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