Triphala: The Mystical Herb and Its Role in Dentistry

Abstract

Ayurveda is well-thought-out as the science of life, for the reason that the ancient Indian system of health care aimed on the views of man and his ailment. From prehistoric times traditional herbal remedies have been commonly adapted in India. Herbal extracts are economical with less adverse effects as they interact with special chemical receptors within the body. There is a folk saying in India which says, "No Mother? Do not worry so long as you have Triphala". As it safeguards internal organs, just like a mother shields her offspring. Triphala is made by equal parts of three fruits namely amalaki (Emblica officinalis), haritaki (Terminalia chebula), and bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica). This herb contains antioxidants, gallic acid and ascorbic acid. It has beneficial effects in treating various ailments and thus has acquired importance in clinical research for its anticaries, antioxidant, anticollagenase and antimicrobial activities. The objective of the present article is to provide a brief overview of Triphala and its various applications in dentistry.