A Comparative Analysis for Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Potential of Two Different Formulations of <i>Triphala</i> Extract

Abstract

In Ayurveda, Triphala is a formulation of three herbs. It is a mixture (equiproportional 1:1:1) of fruits of three plants, Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellerica) and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis). Triphala shows antibacterial, antiallergic, antiviral, antifungal, immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties. Triphala and its constituents help in the improvement of blood circulation, reduction in level of cholesterol and control of blood pressure. This study focuses on detecting various phytocompounds and their comparative analysis for antioxidant potential in two different formulations of Triphala extract. Antioxidant activity was determined by phosphomolybdenum assay and reducing power assay. Our results indicated the presence of various phytocompounds such as phenols, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids etc, which may play a role in its biological activities. Both Triphala formulations showed significant free radical-scavenging properties as compared to ascorbic acid. Formulation S2 (H:B:A - 1:2:3) showed higher antioxidant activity as compared to formulation S1 (H:B:A- 1:1:1). In conclusion, Triphala non-equiproportional mixture may be a more promising Ayurvedic drug in future Triphala.