Bibhitaki, also known as Baheda in Hindi, is a popular herb in Ayurveda medicine. It is one among three fruits of Triphala. Vibheeta means lack of fear and Vibhitaki/Bibhitaki means the fruit that takes away the fear of disease. Its botanical name is Terminalia bellirica.
In ayurveda Sage Charaka had described as Jwarahara or which reduce fever, Kasahara or which reduces cough and cold and Virechana or used for purgation therapy as the part of panchkarma.
Terminalia bellirica is a large tree with simple and elliptic leaves. Flowers are small, greenish yellow with a strong smell. Fruit is a drupe, obovoid, grey in color, slightly 5 ridged, velvety containing one stony hard seed.
Benefit
Bibhitaki, It is commonly used to support the digestive system, respiratory system, and for various other health conditions. The herb has been used for centuries in Ayurveda to promote overall health and well-being. (1)
Bibhitaki is considered a “rasayana” herb in Ayurveda, which means it has rejuvenating properties and is said to promote longevity. It is believed to have a nourishing and tonifying effect on the body. (2)
Bibhitaki is also believed to have a positive effect on the immune system and is said to help strengthen the body’s natural defence mechanisms. It is also believed to have antioxidant properties and is said to help protect the body from harmful free radicals.(3)
It is believed to have a positive effect on the digestive system, helping to relieve constipation, acidity, gas and bloating. It also stimulates the secretion and action of insulin thus help in controlling diabetes. (4)
The herb is also believed to have a positive effect on the respiratory system and is said to help relieve asthma and bronchitis. (5)
Ayurvedic Properties
Rasa (Taste) – Kashaya (Astringent)
Guna (Qualities) – Rooksha (dry), Laghu (light to digest)
Veerya (action) – Ushna (hot potency)
Vipaka (post digestive effect) – Madhura (sweet)
Effect on Tridosha – Balances Kapha and Pitta
How to take
Bibhitaki can be taken as dried fruit powder, 3-4g as daily a dose. Usually the powder are mixed with other herbs for optimum benefits.
Lukewarm water, honey and ghee are a few medium to take bibhitaki. There are few ayurvedic oils that contain bibhitaki.
When to take
With a bitter-astringent taste it may cause some irritation while taking as powder empty stomach. Healthcare practitioners can advise it in a specific dose to children more than 2 years of age, adults or elders. Expecting mother should consult ayurvedic doctor before taking bibhikiti as it is used for purgation therapy. All the herbs but should be taken under medical supervision.
In conclusion, Bibhitaki is a versatile herb that has a wide range of benefits in Ayurveda medicine. The fruit of bibhitaki tree is used for treating common ailments like bacterial and viral infections. It is believed to promote digestive and respiratory health, immune system, antioxidant properties, urinary tract infections, and overall health and well-being.
