Bibhitaki

Bibhitaki · Terminalia bellirica

Rasa (Taste) Kashaya (astringent)

Virya (Energy) Ushna (heating)

Vipaka Madhura (sweet)

Part Used Fruit (dried ripe fruit without seed), bark, seed oil

Dosha Effect Balances all three doshas, especially Kapha. Its astringent and heating qualities strongly reduce Kapha, while its sweet vipaka pacifies Vata and Pitta.

Family Combretaceae

Traditional Uses

The Charaka Samhita extensively references Bibhitaki across multiple chapters. It appears in the jvarahara gana (fever-alleviating group), kasahara gana (cough-alleviating group), and virechanopaga gana (purgation-supporting group). Charaka recommends Bibhitaki specifically for kasa (cough), shvasa (asthma/dyspnea), svara bheda (hoarseness), and krimi roga (parasitic conditions).

Preparations

Bibhitaki churna (fruit powder) taken with warm water, honey, or ghee. As part of Triphala churna (equal parts with Amalaki and Haritaki). Bibhitaki kwatha (decoction) for respiratory conditions.

Dosage

Churna (powder): 3-6 grams per day, typically taken in divided doses. As part of Triphala: 3-6 grams of the combined formula.

Dosha Guidance

Bibhitaki is the quintessential Kapha-pacifying fruit among the Triphala trio. For Kapha types, it can be used freely as a single herb — its astringent, heating, and drying qualities directly address Kapha's cold, heavy, oily, and stagnant nature. Kapha individuals dealing with respiratory congestion, sluggish digestion, excess weight, or general heaviness will find Bibhitaki particularly beneficial.

Synergistic Combinations

Most classically combined with Amalaki and Haritaki as Triphala. Combined with Guggulu in Triphala Guggulu for metabolic and joint conditions.

Contraindications

Generally considered safe for long-term use in appropriate doses. Use with caution during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, as its heating energy and downward-moving action could be stimulating. High doses may cause loose stools in sensitive individuals.

Tissues & Channels

Dhatus: Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (fat/adipose)

Srotas: Pranavaha srotas (respiratory channels), Annavaha srotas (digestive channels), Purishavaha srotas (excretory channels), Medovaha srotas (fat metabolism channels)

Where to Buy

Select dried Bibhitaki fruits that are heavy, firm, and grayish-brown in color. The dried fruit should have a distinctly astringent taste when chewed.

Shop Bibhitaki on Amazon →

Affiliate link — we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Read the full Bibhitaki guide →

Your Herbs

Herbal Profile

Bibhitaki is one of 50 herbs — but which ones are right for your body? Your Herbal Profile reveals your top 10 herbs, herbs to avoid, best preparations, seasonal calendar, and a daily protocol matched to your dosha.

$19

Get Your Herbal Profile