Ameliorative Effects of Triphala Supplementation on Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Individuals with Post-COVID-19 Condition: A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Triphala, a classical polyherbal formulation in Ayurvedic medicine, has traditionally been used for its diverse therapeutic properties, particularly its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate changes in oxidative stress, antioxidant activity, and systemic inflammation following Triphala supplementation in individuals with post-COVID-19 condition. Methods: Seventy-four participants (aged 18-53 years) with a history of COVID-19 were enrolled in a preliminary randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either placebo (n = 37) or Triphala (1000 mg/day; n = 37) capsules, taken 5 days per week for 8 weeks. Biomarkers assessed included malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl, superoxide dismutase (SOD), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), measured before and after supplementation. Results: In the Triphala group, MDA (P = 0.026), protein carbonyl (P = 0.017), IFN-γ (P = 0.038), and TNF-α (P < 0.001) levels significantly decreased, while SOD activity increased (P = 0.008). In the placebo group, only SOD activity showed a significant increase (P < 0.001). However, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in any of the primary outcomes. Conclusion: Triphala supplementation may help reduce oxidative stress and systemic inflammation in individuals with post-COVID-19 condition. Future studies with higher doses or longer treatment durations are recommended to confirm and extend these findings.