Triphala: A Natural Treatment for IBS-D

 Medically reviewed by Dr. Dan Wool, NMD

 Arizona-licensed Naturopathic Physician and Gastroenterology Specialist

 Updated: November 15, 2025

 Summary: 

• Understanding IBS-D: Causes and Key Symptoms: IBS-D (Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea) is a chronic gastrointestinal condition marked by frequent loose stools, abdominal pain, gas, and urgent bowel movements. Unlike occasional digestive upset, IBS-D persists and often arises from a combination of gut dysbiosis, stress, and genetic factors.

• Diagnosis and Conventional Treatments for IBS-D: As a “diagnosis of exclusion,” IBS-D is identified after ruling out infections and other conditions. Treatments include dietary adjustments, stress management, antidiarrheal agents, and low-dose antidepressants for gut pain regulation.

• Triphala: A Natural Ayurvedic Support for IBS-D: Triphala—a blend of Amla, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki—offers anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and detoxifying benefits that support digestion and gut microbiome balance.

• Research-Backed Results for Triphala and IBS-D: Clinical studies show Triphala improves stool consistency, reduces abdominal pain, and enhances well-being without adverse effects—making it a promising naturopathic therapy for IBS-D.

Explore the potential benefits of triphala (Indian gooseberry) as a natural treatment for IBS-D symptoms. Discover how it may aid digestive health and lead to more permanent resolution of this frustrating condition.. 

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome-Diarrhea (IBS-D)? 

IBS-diarrhea is a subtype of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) which is a condition affecting many people’s gastrointestinal tract and characterized by abdominal discomfort and pain.

In the case of IBS with diarrhea (aka IBS-D), patients also experience sudden bowel movements and gassiness, whereas IBS with Constipation (IBS-C) presents with straining, bloating and infrequent passing of stool.

There is also a mixed IBS (IBS-M) when people experience a version of each subtype over some time.

Having occasional symptoms of IBS is not the same as being diagnosed with it. However, certain parts of the population are more likely to develop it:

• People under the age of 50;

• Female (below 50 but also those on estrogen therapy before or after menopause);

• Genetic predisposition or shared environmental factors with your family or a combination of both;

• People suffering from anxiety, depression, or other mental health problems;

• Trauma such as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. 

If you experience a persistent change in your bowel habits or pain and tension in the abdomen, you must consult with a healthcare professional.

IBS: A "Diagnosis of Exclusion"

Importantly, IBS is a "diagnosis of exclusion". Diarrhea itself typically has a specific cause such as illness or food poisoning, so when gastroenterologists can't identify another cause for chronic diarrhea, they often diagnose it as IBS-D.

While there are emerging medications and other supportive medical treatments for IBS-D, this "exclusion" can feel vague and somewhat hopeless for patients as the condition becomes chronic. This is excellent place for naturopathic medicine, which takes a bigger picture approach and utilizes time-tested natural interventions, including herbs like Triphala or activated charcoal. 

What are the symptoms of IBS-D?

Focusing on IBS-D, patients with this sub-type of IBS usually experience diarrhea (loose or liquid stools), alongside abdominal pain and discomfort, gassiness, and sudden urges to empty the bowel.

Symptoms of IBS are uncomfortable but rarely severe and can usually be controlled by diet and lifestyle adjustments and stress management.

However, when the symptoms become more frequent and severe, medicine and/or naturopathic remedies might be needed and a treatment plan needs to be put in place by a qualified specialist.

The good news about IBS is that it doesn't provoke changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer.

What is Triphala?

Triphala is a herbal remedy that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for millennia. It is multi-purpose and the type of conditions that can be treated with Triphala range from gastrointestinal to dental. It is as close to a universal remedy as any for Ayurvedic practitioners since ancient times and is also believed to promote longevity and overall health. 

Triphala is a polyherbal medicine composed of three different medicinal herbs which is a typical approach in Ayurveda, as it is believed that combining synergistic herbs makes a more powerful end product. These are the 3 dried fruits that are mixed for Triphala:

• Amla (Emblica officinalis) aka “Indian gooseberry”. It’s one of the oldest edible fruits in India whose berries have a sour, sharp taste and a fibrous texture. Indian gooseberries are high in vitamin C, nutrients, and minerals, and contain powerful plant compounds like phenols, tannins, phyllembelic acid, rutin, curcuminoids, and emblicol. They are used to treat many symptoms of the digestive system.

• Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica) is a large tree originally from Southeast Asia. The fruit is used in Ayurvedic medicine for its antibacterial and antiviral qualities. Bibhitaki contains tannins, ellagic acid, gallic acid, lignans, flavones, and many other powerful plant compounds that make it so valuable as a medicine, particularly for its anti-inflammatory properties, in the treatment of diabetes and to control blood sugar levels. 

• Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is another tree that grows in India, China, Thailand, and the Middle East. It produces small green fruits used as a medicine by Ayurvedic practitioners on their own and as one of the main components of Triphala. Referred to as the “king of medicines” (we now know that it contains phytochemicals such as terpenes, polyphenols, anthocyanins, and flavonoids, all of which have powerful health benefits), it has been used since ancient times to cure stomach ailments, heart disease, asthma, ulcers, and has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

What are typical IBS-D medical treatment options?

If you’re only experiencing mild symptoms of IBS-diarrhea or any other form of IBS, then changes to your diet and lifestyle and reducing the levels of stress might be all you need to manage your condition. These include eating a healthy diet high in fiber and low in fat, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.

Your health provider might advise you to strike particular foods from your menu, including those known to create bloating or gassiness. Some IBS-D sufferers have reported improvement if they cut off gluten from their diet, while others seem to be sensitive to certain carbs from the FODMAP group (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) found in some grains, vegetables, fruits, and dairy products.

If diet and lifestyle changes don’t help or your symptoms are more bit severe, your doctor might recommend counseling, if the cause of IBS is a mental health issue. They might also give you supplements such as psyllium husk (to soak up excess fluid and bulk stool)or antidiarrheal medication (Imodium A-D, Prevalite, Colestid, etc.)

For more persistent or severe symptoms, your doctor could prescribe anticholinergic medicines such as dicyclomine (Bentyl) to help relieve painful spasms in your bowel). Another type is Tricyclic antidepressants which not only help relieve depression but also, used in lower dosages, block the activity of neurons that control the intestines thus reducing pain.

If you are experiencing severe abdominal pain, your physician might prescribe pain meds such as pregabalin (Lyrica) or gabapentin (Neurontin).al neurotransmitter irregularities.

Medical research about Triphala for IBS

Numerous research articles have been published on the benefits of Triphala and some of them give a good indication that it can be used for treating IBS-D:

• It was tested in a clinical study involving 160 patients over 45 days [1] and the results indicated that Triphala improved stool amount, frequency, and consistency. It also alleviated other symptoms such as odor, mucus, flatulence, belching, and abdominal pain. Patients reported improved concentration, appetite, thirst, sleep, and reduced hyperacidity. Most importantly there were no adverse effects observed which might suggest that Triphala is a safe and effective treatment for IBS-diarrhea and related gastric conditions.

• Another study [2] found that Triphala significantly improved stool characteristics and reduced IBS-diarrhea symptoms such as flatulence and abdominal pain while enhancing overall well-being, appetite, and sleep without causing adverse effects. This indicates its potential as a safe and effective treatment for IBS-diarrhea and related gastric issues.

Triphala vs. traditional treatment options for IBS-D

Benefits of Triphala

• Anti-inflammatory properties will prevent and fight infections which might be one of the causes of IBS;

• Antimicrobial qualities -  it might help to restore a healthy microbiome thus treating or preventing the symptoms of IBS-D indirectly; 

• Can improve digestive health - stimulates digestion, regulates the stool, and cleanses the colon; 

• Detox - the antioxidants and essential nutrients in Triphala help clear and detoxify your digestive system which contributes to its overall health.

Potential Downsides of Triphala

• Laxative - since triphala could also have a laxative effect, it’s best to consult with a naturopath or an Ayurvedic doctor to prepare a plan for treating your IBS-D;
  

• Dehydration - The right dosage is important to avoid dehydration, headaches;

• Pregnancy or Breastfeeding - Consult with your healthcare provider if you’re taking other medications and avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Frequently Asked Questions About Triphala for IBS-D

What is Triphala and how does it help IBS-D?

Triphala is an ancient Ayurvedic remedy combining three dried fruits: Amla (Indian gooseberry), Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. It improves stool consistency, frequency, and amount while reducing flatulence, abdominal pain, and mucus. Studies show it enhances appetite, sleep, and concentration without adverse effects, making it safe for IBS-diarrhea treatment.

Is Triphala better than medication for IBS with diarrhea?

Triphala offers natural symptom relief without side effects common to antidiarrheals or antispasmodics. Clinical studies with 160+ patients show significant improvement in stool characteristics, pain reduction, and overall well-being over 45 days. It complements dietary changes and stress management. Scottsdale naturopathic doctors create personalized Triphala protocols for IBS-D.

What are the three fruits in Triphala?

Combined, the three triphal fruits create powerful synergistic healing effects:

• Amla (Emblica officinalis/Indian gooseberry) - high in vitamin C and phenols for digestive health; 

• Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica) - antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, controls blood sugar;

• Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) - "king of medicines" with terpenes, polyphenols, and flavonoids treating stomach ailments, inflammation, and ulcers.

The "Bottom Line" on Triphala

Triphala has a long-standing reputation as an Ayurvedic remedy with many benefits.

Its ability to improve stool characteristics and alleviate symptoms like flatulence and abdominal pain makes it a promising treatment option.

It also enhances overall well-being, appetite, and sleep, contributing to a better quality of life.

With few, if any, adverse effects observed in the studies, it appears to be a safe choice for long-term use.

However, it's always wise to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions.

Learn more about other natural treatments for IBS-D from Dr. Wool:

• Soil-based Probiotics for IBS

• Saccromyces Boulardii for IBS

• Activated Charcoal for IBS

• Gut-directed Hypnotherapy (Nerva app) for IBS

• Identifying Food Sensitivities

• Triphala for IBS

Sources:

[1] Pulok K. Mukherjee, Sujay Rai, Sauvik Bhattacharyya, Pratip Kumar Debnath, Tuhin Kanti Biswas, Utpalendu Jana, Srikanta Pandit, Bishnu Pada Saha, Pradip K. Paul, Clinical Study of ‘Triphala’ – A Well Known Phytomedicine from India, Received July 15, 2005; Revised May 14, 2006; Accepted May 20, 2006, Iranian Journal of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Copyright © 2006 by Razi Institute for Drug Research (RIDR) IJPT 5:51-54, 2006, https://www.bioline.org.br/pdf?pt06008 

[2] Aleksandra Tarasiuk, Paula Mosińska, Jakub Fichna, Triphala: current applications and new perspectives on the treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders, Chin Med. 2018 Jul 18;13:39. doi: 10.1186/s13020-018-0197-6, PMCID: PMC6052535 PMID: 30034512, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6052535/