Abstract

LITERARY ANALYSIS OF HARITAKI FROM A BIRD’S EYEVIEW

Shreyosi Ray* and Salka Debbarma

Abstract

In recent times, Ayurveda has gained immense importance in the field of treatment and lifestyle modification. But, the root of this science travels back to the ancient times when Mother Nature was the only healer of mankind’s dispair. Nature has gifted us with tremendous number of resouces for the betterment of life. Amongst all these sources lies a plant which itself has been named as nector (Amrita). Amrita or Haritaki scientifically known as Terminalia chebula Retz belonging to the family Combretaceae is one of the richest gifts to mankind. Haritaki used singly and in combination is widely known to cure various diseases effectively. It is known to possess antioxidant, hepatoprotective, digestive, laxative, antmicrobial, immunomodulatory, etc properties. Although numerous scientific evaluations are available about this plant, there still lies ample scope for further study and analysis. This study likely aims at exploring the mines of ancient Ayurvedic texts to discover the facts stated regarding Haritaki.

Keywords: Haritaki, Terminalia chebula, Ritu-Haritaki, Pharmacological activities, Classical uses