Bibhitaki

Scientific Names

Bibhitaki

  • Terminalia bellirica Roxb.
  • Terminalia bellerica (Gaertn.) Roxb.
  • Myrobalanus bellirica Gaertn.

Common Names

  • Bibhitaki
  • Baheda
  • Bahera
  • Beleric
  • Bastard myrobalan
  • Vibhitak
  • Akshay
  • Karshfala
  • Kalidrum
  • Bayada
  • Vadikaya
  • Tanikooya
  • Tarekapi
  • Balelaj
  • Talelah
  • Baleel
  • Behada
  • Bhenda

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Parts Usually Used

The fruit rind, seeds, seed kernels, bark, and leaves
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Description of Plant(s) and Culture

Bibhitaki is a large deciduous tree that can reach heights up to 30 meters. The trunk is straight with brownish-grey colored bark. The leaves are long, alternate, and oval-shaped, clustered towards the end of branches. They measure 7-14 cm in breadth and 10-12 cm in length, with some sources indicating leaves can be about 15 cm long.

The flowers are simple and solitary, white or yellow in color with an offensive odor, appearing in May. The upper part of the plant bears male flowers while the lower part has female flowers. The fruits are grey-colored drupes that are ovoid in shape, resembling haritaki fruit but without ridges. Inside the hard covering of the fruit are sweet kernels. The nuts are rounded but with five flatter sides and have historically been used as dice.
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Where Found

Bibhitaki is native to India and is found throughout the Indian subcontinent, Sri Lanka, and South-East Asia. It is common on the plains and lower hills in South and Southeast Asia. In India, it is abundantly found in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Maharashtra. The tree is also grown as an avenue tree and about 100 species are distributed throughout the world.
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Medicinal Properties

Bibhitaki possesses numerous therapeutic properties that make it highly valued in traditional medicine. It has significant anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, antioxidant, laxative, astringent, rejuvenating, aphrodisiac, and anti-aging properties. The herb is considered effective as a natural antimicrobial agent and demonstrates good activity against various infections.

Studies have shown Bibhitaki to be effective in treating diabetes, cancer, and gastrointestinal disorders. It has proven beneficial for respiratory diseases including asthma, cough, cold, rhinitis, laryngitis, and sinusitis. The herb shows promise in treating eye diseases, skin disorders, hair problems, joint health issues, and cardiovascular conditions including blood pressure and cholesterol management.

Bibhitaki works to balance the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and supports three essential body tissues: Rasa Dhatu (plasma), Mamsa Dhatu (muscle), and Asthi Dhatu (bone). It promotes digestive health, acts as a natural laxative, and helps eliminate toxins from the body.
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Ayurvedic Aspects

In Ayurveda, Bibhitaki is known as “Jeevanvati” and is revered as a herb that makes one fearless. It is one of the three essential components of Triphala, along with Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica) and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). This combination is considered one of the most important formulations in Ayurvedic medicine.

Ayurvedic Properties (Rasa Panchak):

  • Rasa (Taste): Kshaya (Astringent)
  • Guna (Physical Properties): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
  • Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)
  • Vipaka (Metabolic Property After Digestion): Madhur (Sweet)
  • Dosha Effects: Balances Pitta and Kapha doshas

Traditional Classifications: In the Charaka Samhita, Bibhitaki is classified under Jawarhara (herbs that relieve fever), Kasahara (herbs good for cough and cold), and Virechnopaga (herbs used in purgation therapy). In Sushrut Samhita and Vagbhata, it belongs to the Mustadi group.

Sanskrit Synonyms and Their Meanings:

  • Rasayan: Rejuvenating in nature
  • Chakshushya: Herb beneficial for eyes
  • Keshya: Very beneficial for hair
  • Kanthya: Very effective for throat
  • Anila-ghnaka: Wind-killing (due to its medicinal properties)

Historical References: In the Charaka Samhita, the ancient Ayurvedic text, Bibhitaki fruits are mentioned as having qualities to alleviate disease and bestow longevity, intellectual prowess, and strength. The Fourth Amalaka Rasayana described in Charaka Samhita includes Bibhitaki as one of the fruits, with the text stating that “by this treatment, the sages regained youthfulness and attained disease-free life of many hundred years, and endowed with the strength of physique, intellect and senses.”

Cultural Significance: The Sanskrit name “Bibhita” and “Bibhitaka” means “fearless.” Interestingly, the tree is avoided by some Hindus of Northern India who will not sit in its shade, as it is believed to be inhabited by demons, despite its powerful medicinal properties.
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Biochemical Information

Bibhitaki contains numerous biologically active phytochemicals that contribute to its medicinal properties:

Primary Active Compounds:

  • Phenolic Compounds: Gallic acid, ellagic acid, chebulagic acid, belleric acid
  • Sterols: β-sitosterol
  • Tannins: Gallo-tannic acid, tannins
  • Flavonoids: 7-hydroxy 3′, 4′(methylenedioxy) flavone, luteolin
  • Triterpenoids: Various triterpenoid constituents responsible for antimicrobial activity

Additional Chemical Constituents:

  • Sitosterol
  • Galloyl glucose
  • Chebugalic acid
  • Protein
  • Oxalic acid
  • Chebulasic acid

Carbohydrates and Sugars:

  • Galactose
  • Glucose
  • Mannitol
  • Fructose
  • Ramnose

The seeds contain approximately 40% oil content, whose fatty acid methyl ester meets major biodiesel requirements. The kernels are noted for their mind-altering qualities and are consumed by certain indigenous communities.
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Legends, Myths and Stories

Bibhitaki has a rich cultural and mythological significance in Indian tradition. The nuts of the tree have a unique connection to ancient Indian epics – they were used as dice in the Mahabharata and are mentioned in the Rigveda book 10 hymn 34. Players would cast a handful of nuts on a gaming board and call whether an odd or even number had been thrown.

In the story of Nala from the Mahabharata, King Rituparna demonstrates his supernatural ability to count large numbers instantaneously by counting the number of nuts on an entire bough of a Bibhitaki tree, showcasing the cultural importance of this tree in ancient Indian literature.

The Sanskrit meaning “fearless” reflects the belief that this herb provides courage and strength to those who use it, while paradoxically, the tree itself is sometimes feared and avoided due to superstitions about demonic inhabitation.
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Uses

Bibhitaki has extensive therapeutic applications across multiple body systems:

Digestive Health:

  • Chronic constipation and as a natural laxative
  • Piles and hemorrhoids
  • Gas, bloating, and flatulence
  • Loss of appetite and digestive weakness
  • Stomach ulcers and gastric disorders
  • Diarrhea (ripe fruit is anti-diarrheal)
  • Worm infestations
  • Nausea and vomiting

Respiratory System:

  • Asthma and breathing difficulties
  • Cough and cold
  • Sinusitis and rhinitis
  • Laryngitis and throat infections
  • Hoarseness of voice
  • Excessive mucus and respiratory congestion
  • Chest pain and lung disorders

Eye and Vision Health:

  • Conjunctivitis
  • Myopia
  • Corneal opacity
  • Cataract
  • General eye nourishment and vision improvement

Skin and Hair Care:

  • Acne, pimples, and skin infections
  • Premature aging and wrinkles
  • Skin inflammation and redness
  • Hair loss and dandruff
  • Premature graying of hair
  • Hair follicle health and growth
  • Skin pigmentation and black spots

Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health:

  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol levels
  • Blood sugar regulation in diabetes
  • Insulin sensitivity improvement
  • Heart diseases

Joint and Bone Health:

  • Arthritis and joint inflammation
  • Rheumatism
  • Bone and muscle tissue support
  • General inflammatory disorders

Mental Health and Neurological:

  • Stress and anxiety relief
  • Natural antidepressant effects
  • Insomnia and sleep disorders
  • Intellectual enhancement
  • Mental clarity and focus

Other Applications:

  • Fever reduction
  • Dysuria and urinary disorders
  • Mouthwash and gargles for oral health
  • Immunity enhancement
  • Anti-aging and longevity
  • Aphrodisiac properties

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Formulas or Dosages

General Dosage Guidelines:

  • Powder: 3-6 grams daily
  • One teaspoon of powder with lukewarm water or honey
  • As part of Triphala: Follow Triphala dosage recommendations

Preparation Methods:

  • Powder Form: Dry Bibhitaki fruit and grind into powder. Take one spoon with lukewarm water or honey
  • Herbal Paste: Mix Bibhitaki powder with virgin coconut oil or olive oil to create a thick paste for external application
  • Decoction: Boil seed kernels to make decoction for vomiting and excessive thirst
  • With Black Pepper: Mix Bibhitaki powder with black pepper and lukewarm water for respiratory conditions

Traditional Formulations:

  • Triphala: Equal parts Bibhitaki, Amalaki, and Haritaki – most common and effective preparation
  • Fourth Amalaka Rasayana: Ancient formulation from Charaka Samhita for longevity and strength
  • Capsules: Available in market form – ensure they are chemical-free and natural

External Applications:

  • Seed oil for skin disorders and hair problems
  • Fruit paste applied to eyelids for conjunctivitis
  • Oil or paste applied to swollen parts for inflammation relief
  • Paste for gentle skin massage to remove acne and pigmentation

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How Sold

Bibhitaki is available in various commercial forms including powdered fruit, capsules, tablets, dried whole fruits, seed oil, and as a component of Triphala formulations. It can be found in Ayurvedic medicine shops, health food stores, and online retailers. The herb is also available as standardized extracts and in combination with other herbs in traditional formulations.
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Warning

General Precautions: While Bibhitaki is generally safe when taken in appropriate dosages, excessive consumption should be avoided as it may cause adverse effects.

Potential Side Effects of Excessive Use:

  • Skin dryness
  • Abdominal aches
  • Constipation
  • Digestive discomfort

Contraindications:

  • Pregnancy: Pregnant women should avoid Bibhitaki as excessive consumption may cause heavy bleeding, uneasiness, and increase the risk of miscarriage
  • Breastfeeding: Lactating women should avoid use due to potential complications
  • Bleeding Disorders: Use with caution in individuals with bleeding tendencies

Drug Interactions: The kernels are noted to have narcotic properties according to ancient texts, so caution should be exercised when combining with other sedative medications or substances.

Recommendations: It is highly recommended to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner, physician, or healthcare expert before use to determine appropriate dosage based on individual body constitution (Prakriti) and medical condition. Professional guidance is especially important for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and individuals with chronic health conditions.

Quality Considerations: When purchasing Bibhitaki products, ensure they are from reputable sources and are chemical-free and natural, especially when choosing capsule or extract forms.
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Resource Links

Wikipedia – Terminalia bellirica

ScienceDirect – Terminalia bellirica

Wisdon Library – Significance of Bibhitaki

Plant Ayurveda – Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica) – The Fearless Warrior

Planet Ayurveda – Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica) – Baheda Properties, Benefits, Uses, Dosage)

Dr. Sharda Ayurveda – Health Benefits, Uses and Risks of Bibhitaki




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