Baheda is also known as “Bibhitaki” in Sanskrit which means “The one that keeps away from diseases”. It is also one of the main constituents of “Triphala”. Baheda is beneficial in relieving cough and cold symptoms due to its antimicrobial and anti-allergic properties. It also helps prevent constipation by loosening stool and promoting bowel movements due to its laxative property.

Baheda benefits:

Decreases inflammatory markers in the body: The anti-inflammatory effect of AATB was evaluated by using different assays such as total cyclooxygenase (COX), 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) activity, nitrate and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The mRNA level expression of COX-2, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were studied in LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. AATB treatment significantly diminished the elevated levels of inflammatory markers. Moreover, AATB downregulated the mRNA level expression of TNF-α, IL-6 and COX-2 genes. The result of our study suggests the use of AATB and is able to reduce inflammatory conditions associated with various diseases.

Reference: Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb fruit exerts anti-inflammatory effect via regulating arachidonic acid pathway and pro-inflammatory cytokines in lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophages.
https://link.springer.com/article

Reduces the risk of typhoid fever: In the present study aqueous extract of the fruit of Terminalia chebula (T) was evaluated for its anti salmonellae activities invitro and invivo. The study confirmed that pretreatment with T reduces the infection of S.typhimurium in mice. As S.typhimurium causes an invasive disease in mice that has similarity with human typhoid. It is therefore concluded that regular intake of Terminalia chebula in the diet can reduce the risk of having typhoid fever. 

Reference: Regular intake of Terminalia chebula can reduce the risk of getting typhoid fever.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257200942

Antimicrobial properties: In a study of the methanol extract of T. Bellerica, it was more effective than crude extract against most of the microbes tested except E. coli (enteropathogen) and P. aeruginosa. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of crude and methanol extracts were determined by broth dilution technique which ranged from 300 to >2400 μg/ml and 250 μg to >2000 μg/ml respectively, indicating thatT. bellerica was highly effective againstS. aureus with lower MIC values. There were some biochemical alterations induced byT. bellerica. These results indicate thatT. bellerica dry fruit possesses potential broad spectrum antimicrobial activity.

Reference: Antimicrobial activity ofTerminalia bellerica. 
https://link.springer.com/article/10.10

How baheda is used in traya? 

In traya behada is used as one of the main ingredients in Gutt shuddhi.

Gutt Shuddhi (Digestion herbs): Gutt shuddhi is an ayurvedic formulation which enhances hair health by relieving the body of constipation and improving digestion.

Gutt Shuddhi benefits: 

• Relieves constipation and gas
• Increases good bacteria in the gut
• Helps regulate bowel movements
• Rejuvenates hair and skin health

Recommended: Unisex, anyone with gut (digestion and constipation) problems, stress problems