IJFANS International Journal of Food and Nutritional Sciences

ISSN PRINT 2319 1775 Online 2320-7876

An Analysis of the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Triphala in Gastrointestinal Disorders

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Vd Bharat Ramavat ,Dr. Manjeet patel ,Dr. Niti Shah

Abstract

The present investigation explores the anti-inflammatory attributes of Triphala, a well-known Ayurvedic polyherbal preparation, particularly in gastro-intestinal (GI) disorders. Generally, the inflammatory nature of chronic gastrointestinal (GI) diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastro-oesophageal reflux sease (GERGERD) and chronic gastritis dictates prolonged morbidity. Triphala, a combination of three fruits— Emblica officinalis (Amalaki), Terminalia bellerica (Bibhitaki), and Terminalia chebula (Haritaki)—has been documented for its pleiotropic therapeutic potential, most probably via exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties along with maintaining mucosal integrity. Based on integrated systems pharmacology, clinical data, in vitro studies, and extremely robust randomised controlled trials (RCTs), this study evaluates the impact of Triphala on inflammation-related signalling pathways, mainly NF-κB, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX). Results suggest that Triphala minimises GI oxidative stress, pro inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, and promotes epithelial layer repair, which makes it an ideal choice for treating inflammation in the GI. In conclusion, Triphala had a significant role in improving symptoms and inflammation in diseases, especially IBS and PUDs, which is confirmed by the result of the meta-analysis. Although the existing RCT literature supports its efficacy, more high-quality, large-scale RCTs are needed to confirm these results and optimise dosing regimens. In conclusion, the present study has proved that Triphala could be a very good complementary therapeutic agent for managing inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders as it is safe and broad-spectrum. Furthermore, this will require further investigation in human patients.

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