From Ancient Roots to Modern Revival: The Power of Ayurveda

        VIBHITAKI (TERMINALIA BELERICA)

 

ABSTRACT

Vibhitaki (Terminalia belerica) is commonly referred to as the triphala component. The tree is widely distributed throughout India's plains and forests. It is quite beneficial for a number of illnesses, including asmari, mukha roga, visarpa, and kasa. Its antihypertensive and antiulcer properties have been demonstrated. The current review discusses Vibhitaki's characteristics and applications, as well as classification, research, and other benefits.

INTRODUCTION

Vibhitaki is a widely used drug in Ayurveda. It is one of the ingredients of Triphala along with haritaki and amalaki. The drug is botanically identified as Terminalia belerica belonging to the family Combretaceae. The drug is useful in many diseases like kasa, visarpa, asmari etc.

SYNONYMS

Vibhitaki is known by several synonyms like Aksha, Karsha,Kaidruma, Vibheetaka are mentioned by almost all acharyas. Other synonyms include Taila phala, Bahedaka, Bahuveerya etc.

BOTANICAL IDENTITY

Botanical Name- Terminalia belerica

Family Name- Combretaceae

 

PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF VIBHITAKI IN DIFFERENT AYURVEDIC SAMHITA

TEXT	RASA	GUNA	VIRYA	VIPAKA	DOSHA KARMA
Ashtanga Hridya	Madhura, Amla, Kashaya	Laghu, Rooksha, Ushna	Ushna	Katu	Tridoshahara
Charaka Samhita	Madhura, Amla, Kashaya	Rooksha	Ushna	Katu	Tridoshahara
Shusruta Samhita	Kashaya	Laghu, Snigdha, Ushna	Ushna	Madhura	Kaphapithanasaka
Bhavaprakasha Nighantu	Kashaya	Laghu, Rooksha, Ushna	Ushna	Madhura	Kaphapithanu
Raja Nighantu	Tikta, Katu, Kashaya	Laghu, Ushna	Ushna	Madhura	Kaphahara

 

INDICATIONS

Kasa roga

Netra roga

Krimi roga

Visarpa

Mukha roga

Ashmari

 

THERAPEUTIC USES OF VIBHITAKI

SHOTHA- Lepana of phal majja of vibhitaki relieve burning sensation and pain in all kind of shotha.

NETRA ROGA- Anjana of majja of vibhitaki is very beneficial.

ATISARA- Burnt fruit of vibhitaki mixed with salt may help in diarrhea.

GRANTHI VISARAPA- Kalk of vibhitaki is applied in visarpa.

FORMULATIONS

Triphaladi churna

Lavangadi vati

Triphala guggulu

Vibhitaki churna

Phaltrikadi kwath

 

DOSAGES

3-6 gm in powder form

 

TAXONOMICAL CLASSIFICATION

KINGDOM- Plantae

CLASS- Dicotyledons

SUBCLASS- Polypetalae

ORDER- Myrtales

FAMILY- Combretaceae

GENUS- Terminalia

SPECIES- bellerica

 

Distribution: Throughout India in deciduous forest up to an elevation of 900m.It is very common in Indian forests and plains.

Taxonomical Description Habit: It is a large deciduous tree grows up to 60ft in height.

Morphology:  

Leaves: simple, alternate, broadly elliptic or elliptic obovate, rounded or rarely subacute or shortly acuminate,

Inflorescence- spike

Flowers: greenish yellow with an offensive odour, flowers in the upper part of the spike are male, which is shortly pedicelled and those in lower parts are hermaphrodite and sessile.

Fruit: drupe, ovoid grey,. The fruit contains a hard stony seed with five longitudinal ridges. The kernel is oily. Fruit does not have any characteristic odour.

Part Used: Fruit rind, Bark

Flowering Season: March- May

Fruiting Season: December- February

Chemical Constituents: Gallic acid, Tannic acid and glycosides, Beta-l, sitosterol, Ellagic acid, Ethyl gallate, Chebulagic acid., Quinic acid, Arabinose, Fructose, Sucrose, Sugar, Rhamnose and Amino acid

 

Vibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), also known as Bibhitaki or Baheda, is a key herb in Ayurveda, widely recognized for its tridoshic balancing properties and extensive therapeutic applications. 

 

Analysis of Vibhitaki based on its Ayurvedic pharmacodynamics (Rasa, Guna, Virya, Vipaka, Prabhava), mechanism of action, parts used, properties, indications, contraindications, and its relevance in modern lifestyles, drawing from traditional Ayurvedic principles and available information.

1. Ayurvedic Pharmacodynamics of Vibhitaki: Ayurveda evaluates herbs based on five key pharmacodynamic properties: Rasa (taste), Guna (qualities), Virya (potency), Vipaka (post-digestive effect), and Prabhava (special effect). These attributes define how Vibhitaki interacts with the body and its therapeutic efficacy.Rasa (Taste): Kashaya (astringent) is the primary taste, with secondary notes of Madhura (sweet) in some contexts. The astringent taste helps in toning tissues and reducing excess moisture or secretions.Guna (Qualities): Laghu (light) and Ruksha (dry). These qualities make Vibhitaki easy to digest and effective in reducing Kapha and excess fat or fluid accumulation.Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot). The hot potency enhances circulation, stimulates digestion, and helps clear Kapha obstructions in the respiratory and digestive systems.Vipaka (Post-Digestive Effect): Madhura (sweet). Despite its astringent taste, Vibhitaki’s sweet post-digestive effect nourishes tissues and supports rejuvenation without aggravating Kapha excessively.Prabhava (Special Effect): Vibhitaki has a unique ability to balance all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), with a pronounced effect on Kapha and Pitta. Its special effect includes its role as a Rasayana (rejuvenative) and its ability to enhance immunity and vitality. It is particularly noted for its action on the eyes and respiratory system.

2. Mechanism of Action: Vibhitaki’s therapeutic effects are attributed to its bioactive compounds and Ayurvedic properties, which work synergistically to influence physiological processes.The mechanisms can be understood through both Ayurvedic and modern pharmacological lenses:

Ayurvedic Perspective: Dosha Balancing: Vibhitaki pacifies Kapha and Pitta primarily due to its astringent taste and hot potency, which reduce mucus, inflammation, and heat-related conditions. It also balances Vata indirectly through its nourishing sweet Vipaka.Agni Stimulation: The Ushna Virya enhances Jatharagni (digestive fire), aiding in the digestion of Ama (toxins) and improving metabolism. This makes it effective for digestive disorders like constipation and indigestion.Srotas Cleansing: Vibhitaki clears obstructions in the Swedavaha (sweat channels), Pranavaha (respiratory channels), and Annavaha (digestive channels) Srotas, promoting detoxification and healthy circulation.

Rasayana Effect: As a rejuvenative, it supports tissue regeneration, enhances Ojas (vital essence), and strengthens immunity, making it valuable for chronic fatigue and aging-related disorders.

Modern Pharmacological Perspective:Antioxidant Activity: Vibhitaki contains tannins, gallic acid, and ellagic acid, which exhibit strong antioxidant properties, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. This supports its use in aging, skin health, and chronic diseases.Anti-inflammatory Effects: The astringent tannins reduce inflammation by tightening tissues and inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, beneficial for conditions like arthritis, skin rashes, and respiratory inflammation.

Expectorant and Bronchodilatory Effects: Its ability to reduce mucus and enhance circulation in the respiratory tract makes it effective for asthma, bronchitis, and cough. The hot potency aids in dilating bronchial passages.Laxative and Digestive Support: Vibhitaki’s mild laxative effect promotes bowel movements, while its astringent properties regulate intestinal motility, preventing diarrhea. It also supports gut microbiota balance, aligning with modern research on gut health.

Hypoglycemic and Lipid-Lowering Effects: Studies suggest Vibhitaki may lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, making it relevant for diabetes and cardiovascular health.

3. Parts Used: The primary parts of the Vibhitaki plant used in Ayurveda are:Fruit (Pericarp): The dried fruit is the most commonly used part, valued for its astringent, rejuvenative, and detoxifying properties. It is used in powders, decoctions, and formulations like Triphala.

4. Seed Kernel: Less commonly used but may be employed in specific formulations for its nourishing properties.Bark and Leaves: Rarely used in traditional practice but may have applications in local remedies for their astringent effects.

5. Properties of the Plant: Vibhitaki is a large deciduous tree belonging to the Combretaceae family, native to India and Southeast Asia. Its properties include:Botanical Characteristics: The tree grows up to 30 meters, with broad leaves, small greenish-white flowers, and oval fruits that turn brown when dried. The fruit is the primary medicinal part, containing high levels of tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds.Chemical Constituents: Key bioactive compounds include gallic acid, ellagic acid, chebulagic acid, tannins, and β-sitosterol, contributing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.Ayurvedic Properties: Tridoshic (balancing all three doshas), Rasayana (rejuvenative), Chakshushya (beneficial for eyes), Keshya (promotes hair health), and Deepana (digestive stimulant).5. IndicationsVibhitaki is indicated for a wide range of conditions due to its versatile therapeutic properties. Key indications include:

Respiratory Health: Effective for asthma, bronchitis, cough, and sinusitis due to its expectorant and Kapha-reducing properties. A decoction of Vibhitaki fruit is used as an expectorant

.Digestive Disorders: Treats constipation, piles, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Its mild laxative effect (1-2 grams of powder with warm water) promotes regular bowel movements.

Eye Health: Used for conjunctivitis, eye strain, and vision improvement. A diluted decoction can be used as an eyewash.

Skin Disorders: Reduces acne, rashes, and inflammation when applied as a paste or taken internally to purify blood.

 Cardiovascular Health: Supports heart health, especially when combined with Arjuna, due to its lipid-lowering and blood-purifying effects. Rejuvenation and Immunity: Enhances vitality, boosts immunity, and combats general weakness, chronic fatigue, and aging-related disorders.

Hair and Scalp Health: Strengthens hair roots and treats dandruff, often used in herbal hair oils.

Metabolic Disorders: Supports management of diabetes and obesity due to its hypoglycemic and fat-reducing properties.

6. Contraindications: While Vibhitaki is generally safe when used appropriately, certain precautions and contraindications apply:

7. Pregnancy and Lactation: Its strong astringent and hot properties may not be suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consultation with an Ayurvedic practitioner is advised.Hypersensitivity: Rarely, individuals may experience rashes or allergic reactions. Discontinue use if such symptoms occur.Drug Interactions: Vibhitaki may interfere with allopathic medications for blood sugar or cholesterol due to its hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering effects. Medical supervision is recommended for those on such medications.Excessive Dryness: Its Ruksha (dry) quality may aggravate Vata or cause dryness in individuals with dry skin or constipation if used in excess.High Pitta Conditions: Although it pacifies Pitta, its Ushna Virya may aggravate conditions like severe acidity or ulcers in high doses.

8. Use in Modern Lifestyle: Vibhitaki’s properties make it highly relevant for addressing modern lifestyle challenges, where stress, poor diet, and environmental toxins contribute to chronic health issues. Its applications include:Detoxification and Gut Health: In modern diets high in processed foods, Vibhitaki’s ability to clear Ama and support gut microbiota makes it valuable for detoxification. It can be taken as part of Triphala (a combination of Vibhitaki, Amalaki, and Haritaki) to promote regular bowel movements and improve digestion.Respiratory Support in Urban Environments: With rising air pollution, Vibhitaki’s expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects help manage respiratory issues like asthma or allergies. A decoction or Triphala capsules can be used.Stress and Fatigue Management: As a Rasayana, Vibhitaki boosts energy and immunity, countering chronic fatigue and stress-related burnout common in fast-paced lifestyles. It can be taken as a powder or in rejuvenative formulations.Weight Management: Its fat-reducing and metabolism-enhancing properties support weight loss efforts, especially when combined with exercise and a balanced diet. Triphala is often recommended for obesity management.Skin and Hair Care: Vibhitaki’s blood-purifying and anti-inflammatory effects make it useful for acne and dermatitis, common in modern lifestyles due to stress and pollution. It is also used in herbal shampoos for dandruff and hair fall.Eye Health in Digital Age: Prolonged screen time causes eye strain and dryness. Vibhitaki’s Chakshushya property supports eye health, and its eyewash can relieve strain.Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health: With rising incidences of diabetes and heart disease, Vibhitaki’s hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering effects offer preventive and supportive benefits.Practical Applications:Powder: 1-2 grams with warm water before bed for constipation or as a general tonic.Decoction: Boil 1-2 Vibhitaki fruits in water for respiratory or eye health.Triphala: A common formulation for digestion, detoxification, and rejuvenation.Topical Paste: For skin disorders, apply a paste of Vibhitaki powder mixed with water.Capsules or Syrups: 

9. Conclusion: Vibhitaki is a versatile Ayurvedic herb with profound therapeutic potential, rooted in its ability to balance all three doshas, enhance digestion, and promote rejuvenation. Its Rasa (astringent), Guna (light, dry), Virya (hot), Vipaka (sweet), and Prabhava (tridoshic and Rasayana) define its efficacy in treating respiratory, digestive, skin, eye, and metabolic disorders. The fruit is the primary part used, offering antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and laxative properties. While safe for most, it requires caution in pregnancy, hypersensitivity, or with certain medications. In modern lifestyles, Vibhitaki addresses detoxification, stress, respiratory issues, and metabolic health, making it a valuable addition to holistic wellness routines. Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized dosage and guidance to ensure safe and effective use.