Harad

Distribution

Found in himalayan tracts, west bengal, maharashtra, madhya pradesh, bihar and assam

Chemical Constituents

Chebulinic acid, tannic acid, anthraquinone glycoside etc

Ayurvedic Properties

Pharmacological Action

• Antifungal, antimicrobial,anti oxidant: it is effective in skin disorders
• Antispasmodic: relieves different kinds of pains and cramps in the body
• Purgative: a good purgative which helps in flushing out the toxins
• Hypotensive: it balances the blood pressure
• Reduces swellings and clears wounds

Therapeutic Uses

• Its powder mixed with honey is a good remedy for anemia
• Powder consumed with honey and ghee at bed time is a good rejuvinator
• Decoction consumed will cure digestive disorders
• In eye disorders it is found effective
• Gargling with its decoction cures sstomatitis and sore throat
• Asthma: powder of haritaki with shunti is given
• Gout: powder of it is consumed along with jaggery

Some of the common formulations

Abhayarishta, abhraka bhasma, agastya haritaki rasayana, triphala kashaya, agnitundi vati etc