Haritaki, also called Chebulic Myrobalan, is considered an important herb in Ayurveda. People extensively use Haritaki for a wide range of traditional remedies. It is popularly known as Indian walnut. The health benefits of Haritaki are numerous. It is referred to as ‘Indian hog plum’ in English, ‘Haritaki’ in Sanskrit, and ‘Hilikha’ in Assamese. Ayurveda reveres Haritaki as a rejuvenative herb and a one-shot remedy for a variety of ailments.
Growth and Habitat
Haritaki trees are deciduous in nature and generally grow in tropical and subtropical regions of India, China, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
Haritaki as the King of Medicine
Being known as the ‘King of Medicine’, Haritaki is one of the three fruits in ‘Triphala’, a powerful herbal combination along with Amla and Bibhitaki, which promotes overall health and longevity.
Balancing the Tridoshas
Haritaki is Tridoshic in nature. It balances all Tridosas, which are Vata (air and space element), Pitta (fire and water element) and Kapha (earth and water element) doshas. A January 2014 article reveals that if haritaki is taken along with food it enhances mental ability, alleviates the ill effects of aggravated Pitta, Kapha and Vata and restores the free flow of urine, faeces and sweat. Taking the fruit after food ensure removal of defects due to faulty food intake.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF HARITAKI
1. HARITAKI AIDS IN DIGESTION:
One of the key health benefits of Haritaki is its ability to improve digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes. Its carminative nature helps in breaking down the food particles in the stomach and intestine. Thus, it enhances the secretion of digestive juices. This, in turn, increases the absorption of essential nutrients through the intestine. It helps to reduce or eliminate bloating, gas, and acidity.
It also supports gut health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria. Haritaki also works as a natural laxative and thus it can relieve constipation. Various gastrointestinal disorders like heartburn, diarrhea, peptic ulcer, etc. may get cured with the help of Haritaki.
2. HARITAKI AS IMMUNITY BOOSTER:
Among the many health benefits of Haritaki, its role as a immunity booster is immense. A 2017 study reveals that this medicinal fruit has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, which are of great help in the matter of preventing infection in the body. As it contains antioxidants and vitamin C, haritaki strengthens the immune system. It can fight microbes and protects the body against viral infections. Consumption of Haritaki makes wound healing faster.
3. HARITAKI PREVENTS DIABETES:
The health benefits of Haritaki in relation to diabetes management are noteworthy. It can be a natural, supportive remedy for managing diabetes along with a balanced diet and lifestyle. It helps by improving insulin sensitivity, reducing blood glucose level, and preventing diabetes-related complications. Haritaki aids digestion and helps in preventing accumulation of fat, and thus it becomes crucial in controlling diabetes. Pancreatic beta cells, which produce insulin, are protected by the antioxidant properties abound in haritaki. Consumption of haritaki helps to improve blood circulation in the body. Subsequently, it reduces the risk of diabetic neuropathy.
4. HARITAKI AND HEART HEALTH:
Among the wide-ranging health benefits of Haritaki, its positive impact on heart health is significant. It plays an important role in treating a good number of ailments related to heart health. As haritaki contains polyphenols and flavonoids, it helps to protect blood vessels. Moreover, it prevents plaque build-up by neutralizing free radicals in the blood.
Haritaki also helps in regulating blood pressure as it has a mild hypotensive effect. It works well for blood by relaxing blood vessels and reducing strain on the heart. It can balance lipid profiles by lowering LDL (bad cholesterol), and increasing HDL (good cholesterol). Not only that, it may also reduce triglyceride level. Thus, Haritaki is a key herb in Ayurvedic medicine, which also supports in maintaining the heart health of the individuals.
5. HARITAKI AND RESPIRATORY HEALTH:
Haritaki is beneficial in treating various respiratory disorders. In conditions like chronic cough, bronchitis, asthma, it is of immense help. Haritaki acts as an expectorant and thus helps to loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract. Additionally, it helps to cleanse the lungs, reduce inflammation, and support overall lung function. Daily consumption of this powerful herb reinforces the lung tissues and boosts lung health. Besides, due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, haritaki helps fight respiratory infections, including cold, flu, and sore throat.
This wonderful herb can be a good friend of those who have weak respiratory function. It is because this great herb has the ability to improve oxygen uptake by strengthening lung tissues and enhancing circulations.
6. HARITAKI AND WEIGHT LOSS:
Haritaki aids in losing weight due to its ability to boost metabolism, support digestion, control cravings, and detoxify the body. It can reduce sudden hunger and craving for unhealthy dietary choices. Accumulation of LDL (bad cholesterol) may be reduced by haritaki, which in turn improves the metabolic rate and helps the body to shed weight quickly.
Haritaki stimulates digestive enzymes. It can reduce bloating and gas and also helps in regular bowel movement. Thus, it helps an individual to have a well-functioning digestive system. A proper and balanced digestive system helps in effective weight loss.
7. HARITAKI AND COGNITIVE AND NERVOUS SYSTEM:
Antioxidant properties like Chebulagic and Chebulinic Acid and Gallic Acid are present in haritaki. As a result, brain cells get protection from oxidative stress and age-related declination. Thus, this super-herb haritaki exerts a powerful positive impact on the cognitive and nervous system of the individuals. Haritaki has the power to reduce inflammation in the brain and enhance neurotransmitter activity.
Moreover, its adaptogenic properties help to reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia by balancing cortisol level. Studies reveal that it improves memory and cognitive function by enhancing neurotransmitter activities and reducing inflammation in the brain.
8. HARITAKI AND SKIN HEALTH:
Haritaki is rich in antioxidant properties like Chebulagic Acid and Chebulinic Acid and Gallic Acid. Therefore, in the matter of anti-aging and skin rejuvenation, haritaki plays a significant role. It protects our skin from free radical damage. Stimulating collagen production, haritaki keeps our skin firm and youthful and prevents premature aging.
This popular herb works as a natural blood purifier. It can remove toxins from our body. Most importantly, haritaki is a natural protector against acne, pigmentation, and dull skin.
