Haritaki powder is gaining popularity in wellness circles, and for good reason. Known as the "king of herbs" in Ayurveda, this traditional remedy has been used for centuries for its rejuvenating, detoxifying, and healing properties. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is a fruit-bearing tree mainly found in India and Southeast Asia, playing a significant role in traditional medicine. When the fruit is dried and ground, it becomes a fine, earthy powder with light brown color and slightly bitter taste, known as haritaki powder.
What is Haritaki?
Haritaki powder isn't just for one specific use; it's considered a rasayana, or rejuvenator. This means it helps restore energy, promote longevity, and cleanse the body of toxins.
Key Benefits of Haritaki
Haritaki is prized in Ayurveda for its versatile health applications. Vrinda Devani, OB-GYN and Ayurvedic practitioner, says that haritaki balances all the elements, especially ether and air (Vata dosha). Haritaki is also rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium, amino acids, flavonoids, and antioxidants.
According to Devani and 2014 research, haritaki is beneficial for cough, constipation, gas, and bloating, indigestion, detoxification, weight loss, skin diseases, metabolism, immunity, fertility, libido, cleansing, supporting regular bowel movements, and nourishing and rejuvenating the tissues.
A 2017 pharmacological study suggests that extracts of the myrobalan fruit contain compounds that support its application as an anticarcinogenic, antifungal, antibacterial, antioxidant, and antidiabetic agent. These properties also play a part in heart health, wound care, and digestive support.
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Haritaki for Weight Loss
Consuming harad on an empty stomach can be beneficial for losing excess weight, as it contains elements that help increase metabolism. Consuming harad also controls your appetite and does not increase weight due to unnecessary eating. Haritaki powder helps in removing the toxins from the body and keeps the digestive system on track. Haritaki, if taken in powder form, regulates hunger, and if combined with a balanced diet and exercises, leads to weight loss.
People are using haritaki for weight management because it has properties that make it useful for this purpose. It supports the body's natural detoxification process during sleep, helps with better elimination in the morning, and might curb cravings the next day. Additionally, it helps regulate metabolism, which is essential for weight loss. However, it's important to remember that haritaki is not a replacement for exercise or mindful eating.
To use haritaki for weight loss, grind a small piece of harad to make a powder and drink it with warm water. You will see the difference in a few days.
Haritaki for Digestion
Consuming harad on an empty stomach can significantly improve digestion. This herb helps increase digestive enzymes, enhance the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, and relieve common digestive problems like bloating, indigestion, and constipation. Haritaki is a natural laxative and contains dietary fibers, which fight constipation. For this, chew a small harad on an empty stomach in the morning.
Haritaki for Detoxification
Harad has detoxifying properties and contains antioxidants, which protect the body from harm induced by free radicals. Consuming it also keeps the liver healthy. To detoxify, start your day by drinking a mug of hot water with one teaspoon of Harad powder. This remedy will remove toxins from your body and reduce the risk of diseases.
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Haritaki for Immunity
Eating harad on an empty stomach can strengthen your immune system. Its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties help protect against infections and diseases. Regularly consuming harad improves your body's immune system and protects you from infections. If ghee-fried Haritaki powder is taken regularly, then it acts as an immunity booster and increases longevity.
Haritaki for Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Harad has anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial in reducing inflammation in the body. Soak some myrobalan in a bowl at night and drink its water in the morning. In the morning, mix one spoonful of myrobalan in a cup of hot water and consume it. You can consume salad by sprinkling myrobalan on top to improve digestion.
Haritaki for Skin
Using haritaki powder for skin isn’t new. In fact, it’s been a go-to Ayurvedic remedy for acne, blemishes, and dullness for ages. If your skin feels like it’s always breaking out or looking puffy, haritaki might help reduce internal inflammation. Haritaki powder has antibacterial properties that make it very effective for treating acne and ulcers. Haritaki powder is very useful in skincare and fights with skin allergies.
As a rejuvenating and regenerative herb with antioxidant properties, haritaki is believed to have the potential to improve the health of the skin, hair, and nails. According to 2019 research, haritaki may help address a variety of skin ailments classified by Ayurveda. Devani recommends using it for day-to-day skin health. “Use it externally by making a paste with some water or rose water,” she says. “If it’s a little drying, add a few drops of oil.”
In a 2014 study, a haritaki paste created with haritaki powder, ghee, and water helped alleviate cracked feet.
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Haritaki Face Mask Recipes
- Acne-Prone Skin Mask: Mix haritaki powder with honey to form a smooth paste. Apply evenly to your face, avoiding the eye area. This mask gently exfoliates while honey soothes and hydrates.
- Brightening Mask: This type of mask helps improve skin radiance and reduce dullness.
Tip: For sensitive skin, always do a patch test first. Also, be careful not to use the powder around the eyes or broken skin.
Haritaki for Hair
Haritaki is antimicrobial and rich in tannins, which help soothe scalp issues and strengthen hair follicles. A 2021 study notes that classical Ayurvedic texts include formulations for hair dyes using haritaki powder, noting these formulations have been used for generations with no adverse effects. The research also notes that haritaki not only darkens but softens hair. Haritaki powder proves to be very useful for hair loss in the form of Haritaki herbal oil, which can be prepared by heating a cup of coconut oil in a pan with 3 pods of Haritaki until it turns brown and the outer shell cracks and allowed to cool. Haritaki oil also prevents Dandruff and lice infections.
Haritaki Hair Mask Recipe
Combine haritaki powder with water or yogurt into a thick paste. Apply to your scalp and hair, cover with a shower cap, and let it sit for 20-30 minutes. Do this once a week - not more - or you could over-dry your scalp.
Haritaki for Nails
A 2019 study noted that haritaki’s antimicrobial properties may be helpful in alleviating nailbed infection, though more high-quality research is needed.
Other Benefits
As the purity of the blood increases, the heart muscles grow stronger. Haritaki helps in cleaning blood which has the effect of stopping the build-up of fat in the artery, especially the coronary artery. When these effects take place, they lead to a reduction in blood pressure, a strong heart, and clear arteries. Also, Haritaki helps in controlling blood sugar levels and decreases insulin sensitivity in the body.
How to Use Haritaki Powder
You’ll typically find haritaki powder in its dried, ground form - light brown, slightly bitter, and pretty earthy. In general, the best way to take haritaki powder internally is to start small - like ¼ teaspoon once daily - and work your way up. You can mix it with warm water, honey, or ghee. Some even take it with milk or jaggery (especially in the evening).
For detoxification and better absorption, taking haritaki powder on an empty stomach first thing in the morning is ideal. Boil half a teaspoon in a cup of water, let it cool slightly, and sip slowly.
Why nighttime? Because your body is naturally detoxing during sleep. Haritaki supports this process, helps with better elimination in the morning, and might curb cravings the next day.
Forms of Haritaki
Haritaki is available in many forms in the marketplace. In addition to the versatile and popular powdered form, a haritaki paste and a jam-like preparation made with ghee or sugar syrup are also available. Depending on the ailment, Haritaki may also be prescribed in tablet form or as an herbal oil. Different forms are prescribed based on the individual’s needs.
- Powder or churna: The most commonly available form of haritaki.
- Paste or Legiyam: Haritaki powder is mixed with water, ghee, or other herbs.
- Oil or thylam: Oils can be infused with haritaki and used on the skin, hair, nails, and in food.
- Tablet: Tablets are a somewhat modern form of haritaki designed for busy consumers used to getting their medicines in pill-form.
Spiritual Significance
According to ancient Hindu scriptures called the Vedas, a drop of nectar fell from the celestial cup of Lord Indra and sprouted the haritaki tree. The name haritaki can be interpreted as “that which embodies Hari,” or Lord Shiva, one of three Hindu gods responsible for the creation, upkeep, and destruction of the world. As a cleansing and restorative herb, it’s included in holistic health care to address dosha imbalances. Many believe it plays a role in spiritual balance as well.
In Buddhism, haritaki is called “Big Golden Fruit” and represents a connection to the Buddha. It’s believed to embody the core value of Buddhism, compassion. Haritaki is valued for its regenerative potential as a cure for many ailments. The Medicine Buddha, an important icon in Mahayana Buddhism, is depicted as holding a haritaki fruit in both hands.
Precautions and Side Effects
Although haritaki is generally considered safe, some people should avoid it. Don’t take haritaki if you are pregnant, recently donated blood, experience fatigue, have diarrhea, are dehydrated, or take anti-glycemic medications, like insulin or alpha-glucosidase inhibitors.
Even if you aren’t experiencing one of the above, always talk with a qualified herbalist before taking haritaki. Also, it’s not meant for long-term daily use in large amounts. A few weeks or a season is fine, but more isn’t always better.
Tip: Don’t overdo it. Taking too much can cause loose stools or stomach cramps. Remember - consistency is greater than quantity.
Side Effects of Haritaki
The side effects of Haritaki are as follows; elimination of large amounts of built - stool, it leads to system weakening if taken with alcohol, Haritaki is not recommended if one has excessive sexual activity and during pregnancy as its use may reduce production of breast milk.
FAQs
- How long does it take haritaki to work? Haritaki may positively impact short-term conditions like respiratory ailments, digestive, or skin conditions through topical applications. For more chronic conditions, it may take a few weeks for Haritaki to be impactful. Herbal medicine isn’t a one-and-done type of practice. Don’t expect herbs to work like taking an aspirin or antibiotic. They’re meant to work slowly over time with consistent use at proper dosages. The amount of time it takes for herbs to take effect will vary depending on the dosage, issue being treated, and lifestyle factors.
- Can you take haritaki daily? Generally speaking, haritaki is considered safe for everyday use, especially when taken in small doses and blends such as triphala. Still, you should never take herbal medicine without consulting a qualified herbalist and your healthcare professional.
- When should you take haritaki? When you should take haritaki depends on your specific needs. According to Devani, when using haritaki as a rejuvenating supplement, it’s best consumed in the morning. If taking it as triphala, some prefer taking it at night to let the herbs do their work and prepare the digestive system for waking. “For cleansing benefits, night is preferred,” says Devani. However, you should always speak with a qualified herbalist and your doctor about when and how much to take.
- Is haritaki good for your liver? Although there isn’t scientific research to support it, Ayurveda indicates that haritaki may help support the liver’s role in eliminating toxins from the body. Still, always consult a qualified practitioner before taking haritaki for your liver.
- Who shouldn’t take haritaki? Pregnant women, recent blood donors, and individuals taking anti-glycemic or anti-diabetic drugs should avoid taking haritaki. You should also avoid it if you’re excessively fatigued, have diarrhea, or are dehydrated.
- Can haritaki and ashwagandha be taken together? Generally, yes - they can complement each other well. Haritaki for cleansing, ashwagandha for calming and restoring.
- How long does haritaki powder last? Usually within 1-2 years. Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and humidity.
- Is it best to take haritaki in the morning or evening? Evening or early morning on an empty stomach is best.
- Should haritaki be taken daily? In small amounts, yes. But it’s best to use it in cycles - a few weeks on, then a break.