Bibhitaki – The Fearless Ayurveda Herb
Bibhitaki, known best for being one of the three herbs in Triphala, is an exceptionally popular ayurvedic herb. The name Bibhitaki means ‘fearless of disease’ indicating its magnificent properties in maintaining great health. This is a small dry fruit which has an affinity for the mucous membranes throughout the body. It acts as an expectorant and a bronchodilator and also has anthelmintic and tonic effects. It has a particular action on the lungs, intestines and urinary systems. This makes it an excellent herb for cleansing excess water and the heavy, sluggish qualities in the body.
Properties
Bibhitaki is a light, dry herb with a sweet and astringent taste. It has a heating action in the body and its post digestive effect is sweet. It works particularly well on the digestive, excretory, nervous and respiratory systems.
Some actions and indications:
– Rejuvenative
– Benefits hair and eyes
– Beneficial for breathing and throat issues
– Alleviates edema and swellings
– Asthma, cough and bronchitis
– Crohns disease
- Diarrhea
– Intestinal inflammation
- Parasites
– Bladder stones
– Cloudy urine
- Insomnia
– Cardiac congestion
Word Of Caution:
In cases of excessive dryness in the body it is wise to practice caution when using this herb. Its light and dry qualities will increase those in the body and therefore in excess may lead to dry skin and bowels.
Usage:
There are many combination compounds that involve Bibhitaki to address certain conditions.
Some being:
– The most well-known combination is using Bibhitaki, Amalaki and Haritaki together to create Triphala
– Triphala being an excellent rejuvenative formula that benefits overall health, in particular the GI tract
– Bibhitaki with pippali and black pepper to help in congestion in the lungs
– Bibhitaki with Haritaki, ginger and vasa for asthma and coughs
– Bibhitaki with honey for sore throats and speech impairments
References:
– Lad, V. (1999). The complete book of Ayurvedic home remedies.
– Sharma, H. (2011). Ayurvedic Healing. Singing Dragon
– Lad, V. (2002). Textbook of Ayurveda.
– Lad, V., & Frawley, D. (1986). The yoga of herbs
– Pole, S. (2013). Ayurvedic medicine the principles of traditional practice.
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