Haritaki (Chebulic Myrobalan / Harad)
Haritaki (Chebulic Myrobalan / Harad)
Terminalia chebula
The 'king of medicine' fruit for gentle cleansing and rasayana renewal.
Haritaki tree · Tree · Parts: Fruit, Fruit rind
- Taste (rasa)
- Astringent, sweet, sour, pungent, bitter
- Energy (virya)
- Heating
- Balances
- Vata, Kapha, Pitta
What it is used for
Benefits
- Supports regular, comfortable bowel movement without dependency
- Used in classical rasayana for longevity, clarity and healthy digestion
- Traditionally applied topically for wound cleansing and oral health
- Rich in tannins and polyphenols that support gut lining integrity
How it has been used
Traditional uses & benefits
Haritaki is called the 'king of medicine' in Tibetan and Ayurvedic texts — a tri-doshic fruit that cleanses while nourishing.
Traditional uses
- Gentle regulation of bowel movement and digestive tone
- Rasayana for clarity, longevity and healthy ageing
- Oral and wound cleansing in classical external applications
Practical guidance
- 1Start with the smallest effective dose; it is corrective, not purgative.
- 2Take at night with warm water for cleansing, or in the morning for rasayana effect.
- 3Pause during pregnancy, acute diarrhoea and while taking other medication.
How much
Dosage
1-3 g of dried fruit powder once or twice daily, or 5-10 ml of decoction. Start low and adjust to bowel response.
How to take it
Preparation & usage
Overnight haritaki water
Soak 1/2 tsp powder in a cup of warm water overnight; drink the clear liquid in the morning.
Morning on an empty stomach for cleansing
Triphala-style warm water dose
Mix 1 tsp powder into warm water and drink immediately.
One hour after dinner for regularity
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Precautions
- May cause loose stools or cramping if the dose is too high
- Avoid in pregnancy, acute diarrhoea and severe dehydration
- Take two hours apart from prescription medication
Where this comes from
Sources
Common questions
What is Haritaki used for?
The 'king of medicine' fruit for gentle cleansing and rasayana renewal. In traditional use the main applications are: Supports regular, comfortable bowel movement without dependency; Used in classical rasayana for longevity, clarity and healthy digestion; Traditionally applied topically for wound cleansing and oral health.
What is the typical dosage of Haritaki?
1-3 g of dried fruit powder once or twice daily, or 5-10 ml of decoction. Start low and adjust to bowel response. Amounts vary with age, constitution and health status, so confirm your own dose with a qualified practitioner.
How and when should Haritaki be taken?
Overnight haritaki water: Soak 1/2 tsp powder in a cup of warm water overnight; drink the clear liquid in the morning. Timing — Morning on an empty stomach for cleansing
Are there any precautions with Haritaki?
May cause loose stools or cramping if the dose is too high Avoid in pregnancy, acute diarrhoea and severe dehydration Take two hours apart from prescription medication Speak to a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take prescription medication.
Does Haritaki replace medical treatment?
No. This page documents traditional Ayurvedic use for education; it is not a diagnosis or treatment and does not replace prescribed medication or professional advice.
Where to buy
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