Expert: Dr.G.S.Dehal - 1/25/2012

Question
QUESTION: I am 50 years old and have been using Thriphala churna in hot water at bed time regularly for quite a long time and found to be very useful with beneficial effects like good motion,freshness,general well being etc. But it is observed that I am losing the erctile power gradually. I would like to know whether Thriphala will lead to reduced erctile power / sexual interest on prolonged use( because of the presence of Haritaki in it). I have heard that in certain bachelors camps, Haritaki solution is given to inmates to control sexual instincts which can lead to homosexuality there. Your valuable advice is requested.

ANSWER: Dear Kumar ji,

First thing any herbal formulation is not advised for very long use without consulting any physician.You are haritaki does have such properties but in triphala it is in equal quantity so there are very less chances of such effects.There are chances that in the market sometime triphala is not having same composition,usually they add extra haritaki for its good laxative properties.
For time you simply stop this and take one spoon of gulkand with warm milk at bed time.
There is a specific regimen for triphala is you want to take this for long time.That depends on your nature and seasons.
Feel free to ask anytime.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Let me thank you so much for the efforts taken by you in replying to my query. Can you please clarify what is meant by the word "gulkand" in your answer. Any alternate common / familiar name for this? Is it available commercially? Can one make it at home? Generally my body cannot tolerate Ushna veerya herbs( Seetha veerya is very body friendly) leading to skin eruptions.

With warm regards,

Kumar

Answer
Gulkand is  (Hindi: गुलक़न्द) a jam made from rose petal and honey or sugar.It is very good for constipation in person having aggravated pitha or excessive heat in body.This is freely avail;ble in the market with this name only or it can be prepared easily at home.
This is a sheet veerya preparation so will suit you.