Terminalia bellerica, commonly known as Beleric, Bibhitaki, or Bahera, is a large deciduous tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Combretaceae family and is well-known in Ayurvedic medicine as one of the three fruits that make up the powerful rejuvenating formula Triphala (along with Amla and Haritaki).

The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a straight trunk with pale brown or grey bark. Its leaves are large, ovate, and clustered at the ends of branches. The tree produces oval-shaped, greyish fruits with a hard shell, which are the most commonly used part for medicinal purposes.

Terminalia bellerica is highly valued for its detoxifying, digestive, and respiratory benefits. In Ayurveda, it is considered especially effective for treating coughs, sore throat, asthma, digestive disorders, and constipation. It also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, and is used to support liver health, improve immunity, and promote longevity.

Bibhitaki is considered a “rasayana” herb in Ayurveda, meaning it helps promote overall vitality and well-being. Though bitter and astringent in taste, it is a powerful remedy for balancing Kapha and Pitta doshas in the body.

Family Name: COMBRETACEAE

Botanical Name: TERMINALIA BELERICA

Common Name: BELERIC, BELLIRIC MYROBALAN, BAEHRA

Part Used: FRUIT

Habitat: Grown throughout India.

Uses: It is Astringent, Tonic, Expectorant and Laxative. It is used in coughs and sore throat. Its pulp is used in dropsy, piles and diarrhoea. It is also useful in Leprosy, fever and hair care. It is also used in Oxalic acid and preparation of ink.