GR-MAPs | Online Genomics Resource for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants

Terminalia bellirica

Plant ID	PLN0057
Plant Name	Terminalia bellirica
Common Name	Baheda, Behera, behada, beleric or bastard Myrobalan
Vernacular Name	baheda, bahera, behada, beleric or bastard myrobalan
Plant Description

Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Streptophyta
Class	Magnolipsida
Order	Myrtales
Family	Combretaceae
Genus	Terminalia
Species	lasianthos
Variety/Line/Chemotype
Distribution	It is a large deciduous tree belonging to the Combretaceae family, commonly found on plains and lower hills across South and Southeast Asia. It is also cultivated as an avenue tree in these regions.
Use	In Ayurvedic medicine, Terminalia bellirica, known as Bibhitaki, is a key ingredient in Triphala, a popular herbal formulation. Its fruit pulp is used for its astringent and laxative properties, often prescribed with salt and long pepper for throat and chest infections. The kernel is sometimes applied externally to treat inflammation. Bibhitaki is also mentioned in ancient texts like the Charaka Samhita, where it is credited with promoting longevity, intellect, and strength. Due to its medicinal benefits, it is referred to as Anila-ghnaka, meaning "wind-killing" in Sanskrit.
Chemical Constituents

Plants