Abstract

HARITAKI (TERMINALIA CHEBULA RETZ.) IN AYURVEDA: A CLASSICAL REVIEW WITH SCIENTIFIC PERSPECTIVES

Dr. Nimitha Benny, Dr. Sreelakshmy K., Dr. Vishnu Darsan, *Dr. Binay Sen

Abstract

Background: Haritaki (Terminalia chebula Retz.) is one of the most widely used medicinal plants in Ayurveda, revered for its Rasayana, digestive, and disease-modifying properties. Classical Ayurvedic literature extensively describes its synonyms, properties, varieties, pharmacological attributes, and therapeutic applications, while modern research highlights its rich phytochemical profile and broad-spectrum biological activities. Objective: To comprehensively compile, analyze, and correlate the classical Ayurvedic descriptions of T. chebula with contemporary scientific research, focusing on its pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, therapeutic potential, and clinical relevance. Materials and methods: Information was systematically collected from Ayurvedic classical texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Nighantus), published research articles, pharmacopoeial standards, and scientific databases including PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Data on macroscopy, microscopy, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological activities, and therapeutic indications were extracted, compared, and narratively synthesized. Results: The review identified Haritaki as a rich source of hydrolysable tannins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, lignans, and triterpenoids. Classical properties such as Tridoshaghna, Anulomana, Rasayana, Vrana-ropana, and Krimihara correlated strongly with modern pharmacological findings including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and immunomodulatory effects. The integration of classical concepts like Ritu-Haritaki, Rasapanchaka, and therapeutic classifications with modern evidence supports Haritaki’s role in digestive disorders, metabolic diseases, wound healing, and chronic inflammatory conditions. Conclusion: Haritaki (T. chebula) demonstrates significant therapeutic potential validated by both Ayurvedic tradition and modern scientific research. Its diverse phytochemical composition and broad pharmacological actions support its relevance as a Rasayana and gastrointestinal drug in contemporary healthcare. The integration of classical knowledge with current evidence enhances its application in evidence-based herbal medicine and encourages further experimental and clinical research.

Keywords: Terminalia chebula, Haritaki, Ayurveda, Rasayana, phytochemistry, pharmacognosy, tannins, antioxidant, gastrointestinal disorders, Pharmacology.