A recent research conducted by University of Pittsburgh revealed that ‘Triphala’, a general ayurvedic medicine meant for stomach ailments has the property of hindering growth of cancer cells in the Pancreas.

The Research report, conducted by Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, shows that use of Triphala inhibited the growth of cancer in mice, which were implanted with human pancreatic tumors.

This study has generated quite a lot of interest in Western health and medical circles, particularly, when a growing interest is seen in alternative therapies, including Ayurveda and Chinese herbal medicine.

Although Indian scientists have supported the anti-cancerous properties of ‘Triphala’ long back, this is the first time that a western research has proved it. However, it still has a long way to go before actually being used as herbal remedy in pancreatic cancer treatment, as the research is still at its budding stage.

‘Triphala’ is one of the most popular Ayurvedic medicines, and is also used as an antioxidant for treating various intestinal disorders. It also promotes digestion and is a mild laxative. This herbal drug is made by the dried and powdered fruits of three different plants – Hartaki (Terminalia chebula), Amlakai (Emblica officinalis) and Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellerica), all taken in equal proportions.

Professor Sanjay Srivastava, who led the research, said “Our results strongly indicate that ‘Triphala‘ has the potential to be used as novel therapeutic agent for treatment of Pancreatic Cancer. The tumors in Triphala-treated mice were found to be only half the size of those in untreated mice, without leaving any side effects on normal pancreatic cells.

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