INTRODUCTION

Other Names:

Behada, Baheda, Bibhitaki, Bhenda (In Marathi), Bahera, Beleric or Terminalia bellirica

Beleric, or Terminalia bellirica, is a tree found mainly in India and Sri Lanka. Its fruit is used in traditional medicine, especially in Ayurveda. Beleric is known for helping with digestion, detoxifying the liver, and improving breathing. It has a bitter taste and is often used in powder form or as a drink. Beleric is also one of the three fruits in a popular herbal mix called Triphala, which is used for its health benefits.

Types

There are several types or varieties of Beleric (Terminalia bellirica) based on different classifications. Here are a few notable ones:

1. Wild Beleric: This refers to the naturally occurring form of the tree found in forests, often with varying fruit quality.
2. Cultivated Beleric: These are cultivated varieties that may be selected for better fruit quality, higher yields, or specific growth characteristics.
3. Beleric Varieties: In some regions, local varieties may be recognized, which can have slight differences in fruit size, taste, or medicinal properties.

Forms

Beleric (Terminalia bellirica) is used in several forms, particularly in traditional medicine. Here are the common forms:

1. Dried Fruit: The fruit can be harvested, dried, and stored for later use.
2. Powder: Dried Beleric fruit is ground into a fine powder, making it easy to mix with water, honey, or other substances for consumption.
3. Decoction: The dried fruit can be boiled in water to make a tea-like decoction, which is consumed for its health benefits.
4. Extracts/Tinctures: Beleric may be processed into liquid extracts or tinctures for easier use and concentrated dosage.
5. Capsules/Tablets: The powdered form is often encapsulated for those who prefer supplements over raw or powdered herbs.

Health Benefits

Beleric (Terminalia bellirica) is known for several health benefits, especially in traditional medicine. Here are some of its key health benefits:

Gives Relief from Constipation

This is a wonder fruit for people who suffer from constipation. It is one of the most important elements in ayurvedic treatment for constipation as it is a natural laxative. Since it is high in fibre it helps in digestion and helps you pass stools with ease due to its lubricating effect on your gastroenteric tract. Research shows behada uses to heal and clear your intestinal tract, in turn, helping you deal with any kind of stomach issues, abdominal pains or IBS.

Cures Diarrhea

Behada benefits people suffering from Diarrhea effectively. It inhibits the production of ricinoleic acid, nitric oxide and prostaglandins E2, leading to faster results in treating diarrhea. Ayurvedic practitioners advise grinding the behada and consuming the same with a teaspoon of honey.

Helps in Indigestion

When you suffer from indigestion you may have abdominal pain, gas or even bloat of your stomach. Beleric myrobalan is your answer to indigestion. A common ayurvedic recipe is to make a fine decoction. You can start by grinding equal parts of behada, licorice roots and some pepper. Now add the powder to 500ml of water and start boiling the same. You can consume 100ml of this wonder decoction twice a day. The behead benefits are visible quickly.

Great for Cough and Cold

You can use the fruit for many kinds of respiratory disorders. It reduces cough and clogged sinuses. The behada benefits mentioned by Ayurveda practitioners point to releasing mucus, clearing the air path, and reducing bronchial contractions.

Natural Mouthwash

This amazing fruit acts as a great mouthwash when boiled in water. It reduces bad odor and is effective in treating mouth ulcers.

Skin Health

Beleric (Terminalia bellirica) offers several benefits for skin health due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It can help treat conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis by reducing redness and irritation. The antioxidants in Beleric also combat oxidative stress, promoting a youthful appearance. Traditional remedies often use Beleric powder in face masks or topical applications to soothe irritated skin and enhance clarity, making it a valuable addition to skincare routines.

Liver Detoxification

Beleric (Terminalia bellirica) is known for its liver detoxification benefits in traditional medicine. It helps support liver function by aiding in the elimination of toxins and waste products. The fruit contains compounds that may promote liver cell regeneration and improve overall liver metabolism. Regular consumption of Beleric, whether in powder or decoction form, may help protect the liver from damage and support its essential detoxification processes.

Respiratory Support

Beleric (Terminalia bellirica) is beneficial for respiratory support in traditional medicine. It helps alleviate issues like coughs, asthma, and bronchitis by acting as an expectorant to clear mucus from the airways. Its anti-inflammatory properties also soothe the respiratory tract, making it useful for reducing congestion and promoting overall respiratory health. Consuming Beleric in powder or decoction form can help relieve symptoms associated with respiratory conditions.

Side Effects

Beleric (Terminalia bellirica) is generally considered safe when used appropriately, but it may have some potential side effects, including:

• Gastrointestinal Distress
• Allergic Reactions
• Drug Interactions
• Drowsiness
• Hormonal Effects

This Article is for Basic Information. Contact a professional doctor before using it.

HAKEEM KARAMAT ULLAH

+923090560000