Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Terminalia Belerica

Also known as: Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb., Bahera, Beleric myrobalan, Terminalia bellirica

Overview

Terminalia bellirica is a deciduous tree whose fruit has been extensively utilized in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for a variety of health concerns, including respiratory conditions, digestive disturbances, and metabolic disorders. It is a key component of the renowned Ayurvedic formulation, Triphala, alongside Terminalia chebula and Emblica officinalis. The fruit is rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and tannins, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic properties. While research on T. bellirica is ongoing, with several in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating its potential, comprehensive systematic reviews focusing solely on this ingredient are limited. The quality of evidence varies, encompassing well-controlled animal studies and emerging human data, though large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or meta-analyses specifically on T. bellirica are scarce.

Benefits

Terminalia bellirica shows promising evidence for several health benefits, though human clinical trials are still emerging. Its most notable potential benefits include: - **Antidiabetic Effects:** In a controlled experimental rat model of type 2 diabetes, aqueous extracts of T. bellirica fruit significantly reduced blood glucose levels, improved glucose tolerance, decreased insulin resistance, and optimized lipid profiles. It also lowered glycohemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and increased pancreatic SIRT1 expression, suggesting a protective effect on pancreatic function. This evidence comes from a well-controlled animal study, indicating strong preclinical support. - **Hair Growth Promotion:** Preclinical studies, including both in vitro human follicle dermal papilla cells and in vivo mouse models of androgenetic alopecia (AGA), demonstrated that oral administration of T. bellirica extract significantly reversed testosterone-induced hair growth inhibition. The effects were statistically significant and, in some models, surpassed those of finasteride, by increasing hair follicle number and markers of cell proliferation (cyclin D1, PCNA, Ki67). This suggests a strong potential for treating hair loss. - **Rich Phytochemical Profile:** Metabolomic profiling reveals that T. bellirica contains a diverse array of polyphenols and other bioactive compounds. These compounds are thought to contribute to its various therapeutic effects, especially when it is used in combination with other ingredients, such as in the Triphala formulation. While traditional uses also suggest anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and antimicrobial effects, high-quality clinical evidence specifically for these benefits is currently lacking.

How it works

The therapeutic actions of Terminalia bellirica are attributed to its rich phytochemical composition, primarily polyphenols and tannins. Its antidiabetic effects are believed to stem from improved insulin sensitivity, reduction of oxidative stress, and the upregulation of SIRT1 in pancreatic tissue, a protein crucial for cellular metabolism and survival. For hair growth, T. bellirica appears to antagonize the inhibitory effects of testosterone on dermal papilla cells, thereby enhancing cell proliferation and promoting hair follicle regeneration. The polyphenols and tannins also act as potent antioxidants and enzyme modulators, such as inhibiting glucoamylase, which contributes to its metabolic and anti-inflammatory properties. The exact bioavailability and absorption mechanisms are still under investigation but are likely influenced by its complex polyphenol content.

Side effects

Based on current research, Terminalia bellirica has not shown significant adverse effects in the reviewed animal and in vitro studies. However, human safety data are limited, and while traditional use suggests good tolerability, comprehensive clinical safety profiles require further investigation. There are no documented drug interactions or contraindications reported in the available scientific literature. Despite its traditional use, caution is advised for individuals with known allergies to similar plants or those on concurrent medications, as potential interactions have not been thoroughly studied in human clinical trials. Due to the limited human safety data, pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional before using T. bellirica. Long-term safety and effects on specific populations are yet to be fully established.

Dosage

Currently, there are no standardized dosing guidelines for Terminalia bellirica due to the limited number of human clinical trials. Animal studies have utilized aqueous fruit extract doses ranging from 500 to 1000 mg/kg, but human equivalent doses have not been well established. The efficacy and bioavailability of T. bellirica may be influenced by its formulation (e.g., aqueous extract versus powder) and the timing of administration. Without robust human clinical data, it is challenging to recommend specific dosages for different purposes. Consumers should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before initiating supplementation with Terminalia bellirica, especially given the lack of established upper limits or safety thresholds in humans.

FAQs

Is Terminalia bellirica effective for diabetes?

Animal studies show promising glucose-lowering effects and improved metabolic markers, but human randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm its efficacy in people with diabetes.

Can it promote hair growth?

Preclinical data, including in vitro and in vivo mouse models, suggest potential benefits for hair growth, particularly in androgenetic alopecia, by reversing testosterone-induced inhibition.

Is Terminalia bellirica safe?

Traditional use indicates good tolerability, and animal studies show no significant adverse effects. However, comprehensive human clinical safety data are sparse, so caution is advised.

How long does it take to see effects?

Animal studies demonstrating effects typically lasted around 6 weeks. The timeline for observing effects in humans is currently unknown due to limited clinical research.

Research Sources

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/09731296241238852 – This controlled animal study investigated the antidiabetic effects of Terminalia bellirica aqueous extract in a rat model of type 2 diabetes. The findings showed significant reductions in blood glucose, improved glucose tolerance, decreased insulin resistance, and enhanced pancreatic SIRT1 expression, suggesting a protective and glucose-lowering effect.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10699269/ – This preclinical study explored the hair growth promoting effects of Terminalia bellirica extract using in vitro human follicle dermal papilla cells and in vivo mouse models of androgenetic alopecia. The results indicated that the extract effectively reversed testosterone-induced hair growth inhibition, showing potential for treating hair loss.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-80544-6 – This analytical study performed metabolomic profiling of Terminalia bellirica, identifying a diverse range of polyphenols and bioactive compounds. The research highlights the rich phytochemical composition of the plant, which may contribute to its various therapeutic effects and potential synergistic actions when combined with other ingredients.