Trikatu
Tri in Sanskrit means three and Katu denotes a pungent taste. Thus the term Trikatu indicates a group of three herbs having a pungent taste. These herbs are:
1. Sunth (Zingiber officinale)- Rhizome of Dry ginger
2. Marich (Piper nigrum)- Fruits of Black pepper
3. Pippali (Piper longum)- Fruits of Long pepper
The combination of equal amounts of churna or powder of these herbs is known as Trikatu. Other names are Katutraya, Vyosha, Trikatuka churna, Trayushana.
Trikatu is a common ingredient of Ayurvedic formulations used for respiratory and digestive system ailments. It has the following properties as per Ayurveda: ng
1. Deepan – Stimulates appetite. Trikatu stimulates gastric acid secretions. Many researchers have attributed this action to its phytoconstituent- Piperine.
2. Shleshmaghna and Peenas nashak - Being Ushana (hot) it balances Kapha dosha which is Sheeta or Cool.
Trikatu has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant and bronchodilator actions which makes it a good remedy for various respiratory ailments like cold, productive cough, bronchitis, asthma, childhood asthma, allergic rhinitis
3. Medodhna- Fat reducing.
Trikatu is beneficial in reducing body fat as well as cholesterol.
Studies have suggested that consuming ginger can enhance calorie burn and reduce feelings of hunger and that it's associated with weight loss in overweight adults.
A preliminary study indicates that the pungent component in black pepper known as piperine fights fat by blocking the formation of new fat cells. This black pepper may offer a natural alternative for the treatment of fat-related disorders like obesity.
4. Amapachak- digests and removes the disease-causing toxins and prevents the formation of Ama.
5. Mehanashak- Trikatu is useful in managing Meha or Type 2 diabetes.
Ginger in particular is shown to improve carbohydrate metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and lipids and thus helps to reduce blood sugar levels. In addition to this, ginger positively manages diabetic complications in the liver, kidneys, nerves, and eyes.
6. Galamaya: Trikatu works brilliantly in throat infections. It fights bacteria, reduces inflammation, mucous, and relieves sore throat.
In modern pharmacology, piperine- an active constituent of trikatu is shown to have the potential to increase the bioavailability of various phytoconstituents and synthetic drugs if incorporated with them thereby helping in achieving the therapeutic goals.
However, due to its hot potency, Trikatu is not recommended in the following conditions:
Hyperacidity and peptic ulcers, Heratburns.;
Burning sensation in any part of the body such as in the throat, abdomen, feet, or hands.
Red eyes; Skin diseases with burning sensation as a symptom,
Bleeding disorders,
Pregnancy
Therefore, it is recommended to take Trikatu after consulting Ayurvedic Practitioner only.
Trikatu has a tremendous wealth of benefits to offer when used properly.
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