Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula)
The Ayurvedic fruit best known as a component of Triphala, taken for regularity and detox. A few small Indian trials look at metabolic and microbiome markers, and none has tested it for constipation.
Evidence last reviewed: August 2026
What the science says
- Gut microbiome Limited evidence
A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled pilot study of Triphala, which contains haritaki, reported shifts in gut bacterial composition. It was a pilot in a small group and measured no bowel symptoms.
- Metabolic and vascular markers Limited evidence
A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study of Terminalia chebula extract in type 2 diabetes found improvements in endothelial function and inflammatory markers. A single small trial with surrogate endpoints.
- Constipation and regularity Limited evidence
Despite its central traditional use as a laxative, no controlled trial has tested haritaki alone for stool frequency or constipation. The claim rests entirely on tradition.
Dosage & safety
Scientific references
- Modulatory Effects of Triphala and Manjistha Dietary Supplementation on Human Gut Microbiota: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study
- Effect of an aqueous extract of Terminalia chebula on endothelial dysfunction, systemic inflammation, and lipid profile in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study
Where to buy
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