Terminalia chebula: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Terminalia chebula is a tree that grows throughout India, Burma, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius. Its fruit is called Haritaki and is used in Ayurvedic medicine.

The fruit of the Terminalia chebula tree contains chemicals that might have pain-relieving affects. It might also reduce blood sugar.

People use Terminalia chebula for aging skin, constipation, diabetes, diarrhea, high cholesterol, osteoarthritis, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse Terminalia chebula with other Terminalia species, including Terminalia bellirica and Terminalia arjuna. These are not the same.

Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for Terminalia chebula overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Terminalia chebula is possibly safe when used for up to 8 weeks. There isn't enough reliable information to know what the side effects from Terminalia chebula might be.

When applied to the skin: Terminalia chebula is possibly safe when used for up to 40 days. There isn't enough reliable information to know what the side effects from Terminalia chebula might be.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy: Terminalia chebula is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth during pregnancy. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if Terminalia chebula is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Surgery: Terminalia chebula might interfere with blood sugar control during surgery. Stop taking Terminalia chebula at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

Chlorzoxazone (Parafon Forte, Paraflex) interacts with Terminalia chebula
The body breaks down chlorzoxazone to get rid of it. Terminalia chebula might decrease how quickly the body breaks down chlorzoxazone. Taking Terminalia along with chlorzoxazone might increase the effects and side effects of chlorzoxazone.
Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with Terminalia chebula
Terminalia chebula might lower blood sugar levels. Taking Terminalia chebula along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.
Omeprazole (Prilosec) interacts with Terminalia chebula
The body breaks down omeprazole to get rid of it. Terminalia chebula might decrease how quickly the body breaks down omeprazole. Taking Terminalia chebula along with omeprazole might increase the effects and side effects of omeprazole.

Dosing

Terminalia chebula has most often been used by adults in doses of 400-600 mg by mouth daily for up to 3 months. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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Terminalia chebula - Uses, Side Effects, and More