Bibhitaki (Terminalia berecilla), is a large deciduous medicinal tree and holds a great value in traditional medicines like Ayurveda and Unani. It is known as baheda in Hindi, tanikaya in Telugu and tanri in Tamil and in Sanskrit it is called as Vibheeta which means one which destroys the fear of disease.
The fruit of bibhitaki contains a host of plant compounds like beta sitosterol, tannins, gaelic, ethyl and elegiac acid. The yellow colour oil extracted from the seed kernel is highly valued for its astringent and laxative properties. Even the leaves and roots of bibhitaki have potent medicinal values.
This classical herb translates to " fearless of disease" as per the Ayurvedic scriptures. It is a wildcrafted fruit that means it is not cultivated but is gathered from undeveloped forests. Bibhitaki is believed in possessing disease relieving, conferring longevity, and uplifting stamina and power.
Bibhitaki belongs to the three main groups of herbs - Jwarahara, the herbs used to ease fever. Kasahara, herbs used to remedy cold and cough and Virechanopaga, herbs used in Panchakarma Detoxification. The ayurvedic formulation is well-known to pacify the Kapha and Vata doshas. Several studies have disclosed that bioactive compounds of the fruit are credited to have anti-depressant traits that are potent to combat stress and anxiety-
Bibhitaki is one among the three fruits of Triphala which help in balancing Kapha. Bibhitaki fruit is dried, powdered and used as medicine in Ayurveda. It possesses healing properties in combating disease, bestows longevity, stamina and strength.
How To Use
Bibhitaki fruit is dried, powdered and consumed by mixing with water or honey.
Healing Wonders of Bibhitaki
Treats Ulcer
Bibhitaki is an amazing fruit that can be effective in treating stomach ulcers. Evidence proves that the antiulcer properties of Bibhitaki fruit derived from rich plant compounds like gallic acid and ellagic acid, aid in digestion and soothe the tummy.
Alleviates Stress
Depression and anxiety are mood disorders that can hamper your health and Bhibhitaki serves as a wonder fruit in easing stress. Studies have proven that ethanolic extracts present in the fruit have shown significant anti-depressant effect and can lower stress.
Prevents Metabolic Disorder
A metabolic syndrome is a group of a conditions characterized by elevated blood pressure, blood sugar and obesity which can increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Research supports that Bibhitaki has amazing medicinal properties and can be beneficial in preventing metabolic syndrome. The powder mixed in hot water helps in losing weight, lowering cholesterol and improves insulin sensitivity.
Promotes Liver Health
Bhibhitaki fruit is hepatoprotective in nature. According to various studies, the extract has shown positive effects in promoting liver health by lowering lipid peroxidation, liver fibrosis and detoxifies the liver.
Heals Wounds
Bibhitaki is well known for its potent wound healing properties. The goodness of ethanol and tannins extract present in the fruit heal external wounds at a faster rate. The antimicrobial properties of the fruit can significantly hinder the growth of harmful microorganisms. The leaf extract of this plant is also known to exhibit antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative bacteria.
Enhances Digestion
Imbibed with powerful digestive qualities, the dried fruit of Bibhitaki or Baheda, actively facilitates in breaking down of food particles in the stomach and intestine, triggers the secretion of digestive juices and thereby increase the absorption of essential nutrients through the intestines. Not only does it help to eliminate abdominal gas while reducing abdominal distension, bloating and gaseous cramps but also plays a pivotal role in treating a host of gastrointestinal anomalies like constipation, indigestion, gastritis, stomach ulcer etc.
Boosts Immunity
Thanks to the quarry of antioxidants and bioactive components, this unique fruit confers several folk remedies for improving the immune system, combatting microbes and fortifying the body against various infections. It also portrays the presence of strong anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and antifungal properties, which hold high significance in preventing infections and uplifting overall health and wellness.
Remedies Hair Problems
Bibhitaki intrinsically showcases anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that helps in treating various scalp and hair infections like folliculitis, itching and dandruff. It also nourishes the hair follicles with essential nutrients, promotes blood circulation and strengthens the hair strands from the roots to the tips. By normalizing the secretion of the stress hormone, it also prevents hair fall and breakage due to stress and anxiety.