TRIPHALA: ENVISIONING ITS ROLE IN DENTISTRY

Abstract

Triphala is an important rasayana drug, used since time immemorial and described in the Ayurveda as a “tridoshic rasayana” (Charka 1500 BC), having balancing and rejuvenating effects on the three constitutional elements that govern human life (vata, pitta, and kapha). The synergy of the three “fruits” (Amalaki - Phyllanthus emblica, Bibhitaki -Terminalia belerica, and Haritaki - Terminalia chebula) produces the tonifying, detoxifying, mildly antiseptic, rejuvenative and laxative effects of this classic formulation. Such a wide array of actions of triphala is supposed to be because of the 47 tannins and 35 phytochemicals which have been so far isolated from it. In Ayurveda, Triphala holds a paramount position as, naturally; many illnesses require first to be treated with purificatory therapy. In recent times, Triphala is being widely studied and researched in the dental arena for its anti caries, antioxidant, anti collagenase, and anti microbial activities. This review on Triphala throws an inclusive limelight on the properties of Triphala and its numerous applications in dentistry.