- Vitamins & Supplements
- Multivitamins
- Vitamin D3
- Vitamin C
- Minerals
- Calcium
- Vitamin B12 & B Complex
- Other Vitamins
- Nutritional Drinks
- Adult Daily Nutrition
- Kids Nutrition (2-15 Yrs)
- Women Nutrition
- Global supplements
- Now Foods
- Solgar
- Nordic naturals
- Nutritional Supplements
- Dr. Morepen
- Power Gummies
- Tata 1mg
- HealthKart
- Carbamide Forte
- Swisse
- Zingavita
- Protein Supplements
- Whey Protein
- Amino Acids
- Mass Gainers
- Workout Essential
- Fat Burners
- Skin Care
- Sunscreen
- Cleanser
- Body Wash
- Face Cream
- Soaps
- Face Moisturisers
- Facewash
- Skin Care Wipes
- Talcum Powder
- Hair Removal Cream
- Baby Care
- Baby Diapers, wipes & more
- Baby Bath Essentials
- Baby Oral Health
- Nursing & Feeding
- Baby & Infant Food
- Baby Healthcare
- Baby Skin Care
- Hair Care
- Shampoo
- Hair Serum
- Hair Conditioners
- Hair Oils
- Hair Creams, Masks, Gels
- Hair Growth Supplements
- Hair Growth Products
- Elderly Care
- Adult Diapers
- Bone & Joint Health
- Orthopaedic Supports
- Underpads
- Sexual Wellness
- Condoms
- Lubricants & Massage Gels
- Personal body massagers
- Men Performance Enhancers
- Sexual Health Supplements
- Top Selling Categories
- BP Monitors
- Nebulizers & Vaporizers
- Smart Wearables
- Weighing Scales
- Thermometers
- Respiratory & Surgical Mask
- Pulse Oximeter
- Stethoscopes
- Diabetes Devices
- Blood Glucose Monitors
- Test Strips & Lancets
- Syringes & Pens
- Continuous glucose monitors
- Insulin Coolers
- Diabetic Footwear
- Pain Management
- Electric heating pads
- Hot Water Bottles
- Hot & Cold packs
- Body Massager
- Wound Care & Dressings
- Adhesive bandage
- Crepe Bandage
- Surgical tapes
- Supports, Splints & Braces
- Knee Support
- Back & Abdomen Support
- Arm & Elbow Support
- Ankle, Foot & Leg Support
- Hand & Wrist Braces
- Neck & Shoulder Support
- Cervical Pillows & Mattress
- Compression support & socks
- Popular categories
- Herbal Juice
- Chyawanparash
- Ayurvedic Immunity Boosters
- Unani Medicines
- Herbal Supplements
- Ayurveda Personal Care
- Ayurveda Oral Care
- Ayurveda Baby Care
- Ayurveda Skin Care
- Ayurveda Hair Care
- Stomach Care
- Constipation
- General Digestion/Indigestion
- Loose motion/Diarrhoea
- Heart Care
- Bone, Joint & Muscle Care
- Pain Relief
- Omnigel products
- Volini
- Iodex
- Moov
- Eye Care
- Eye Lubricants
- Homeopathy Top Brands
- SBL Homoeopathy
- Dr Reckeweg
- Dr Willmar Schwabe India
- Adel Pekana
- BJAIN Homeopathy
- Bakson's
- Allen
- Wheezal
- Dr Willmar Schwabe Germany
- Haslab
- Medisynth
- Boiron
- Bhandari
- Dr Bakshi Bakson
- Dr Batra's
- Homeopathy Wellness Combos
- Homeopathy Popular Categories
- Homeopathic Care for Cold & Cough
- Homeopathic Respiratory Care
- Homeopathy Covid Essentials
- Sexual Health
- Hair Care Products
- Skin Care Products
- Children's Health
- Women's Health
- Homeopathy Medicines
- Homeopathic Drops
- Dilutions
- Mother Tinctures
- Triturations
- Bio Combinations
- Millesimal LM Potencies
- Biochemics
- Bach Flower Remedies
Triphala
Triphala
Triphala is a combination of three fruits or herbs “Haritaki, Bibhitaki and Amalaki”. In Ayurveda, it is known as Tridoshic Rasayana i.e., a therapeutic agent that balances all three doshas - Kapha, Vata and Pitta.
It is a rich source of antioxidants such as vitamin C which helps in building immunity. Taking Triphala supplements on an empty stomach before bed can be beneficial for internal cleansing due to its detoxifying property. Triphala churna also helps in weight loss as it shows significant reduction in energy intake and body fat. It’s consumption also provides protection from certain heart diseases due to its antioxidant property. Triphala powder when taken with milk or intake of Triphala capsules also provides relief from constipation due to its laxative property.
A paste of Triphala and coconut oil can be applied on the face to improve the skin texture and enhance skin elasticity due to its anti-aging property. Triphala is also considered good for the eyes due to its antioxidant activity which helps improve eye health. Triphala helps to control hair fall and promotes hair growth when applied on the scalp due to the presence of vitamin C.
Triphala is safe for all skin types but if you have dry skin, it is advisable to use Triphala with coconut oil. Excessive intake of Triphala might cause diarrhea[1-5][7][8].
It is a rich source of antioxidants such as vitamin C which helps in building immunity. Taking Triphala supplements on an empty stomach before bed can be beneficial for internal cleansing due to its detoxifying property. Triphala churna also helps in weight loss as it shows significant reduction in energy intake and body fat. It’s consumption also provides protection from certain heart diseases due to its antioxidant property. Triphala powder when taken with milk or intake of Triphala capsules also provides relief from constipation due to its laxative property.
A paste of Triphala and coconut oil can be applied on the face to improve the skin texture and enhance skin elasticity due to its anti-aging property. Triphala is also considered good for the eyes due to its antioxidant activity which helps improve eye health. Triphala helps to control hair fall and promotes hair growth when applied on the scalp due to the presence of vitamin C.
Triphala is safe for all skin types but if you have dry skin, it is advisable to use Triphala with coconut oil. Excessive intake of Triphala might cause diarrhea[1-5][7][8].
What is the source of Triphala?
Plant Based
Benefits of Triphala
1. Constipation
Triphala is the most common Ayurvedic formulation that is used to get relief from constipation. Constipation is caused due to an aggravated Vata dosha. This can be due to frequent consumption of junk food, excess intake of coffee or tea, sleeping late at night, stress and depression. All these factors aggravate Vata in the large intestine and cause constipation. Taking Triphala helps to relieve constipation because of its Rechana (mild laxative) and Vata balancing properties.
Tips:
a. Take ½- 2 teaspoons of Triphala Powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water preferably at the bedtime to get rid of constipation.
2. Weak immunity
Triphala is widely used for increasing immunity to fight day to day health issues. This is due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
Tips:
a. Take ½ - 2 teaspoons of Triphala Powder with honey in the morning after taking light food.
b. Repeat this daily to boost your immunity.
3. Liver problems
Triphala helps to correct liver problems. According to Ayurveda, liver has a close relationship with Agni (digestive fire) and Pitta dosha. Any imbalance in Agni and Pitta dosha leads to liver impairment. Regular intake of Triphala helps to balance Agni and Pitta due to its Tridosha (Vata-Pitta-Kapha) balancing property. It keeps liver healthy and strong because of its Rasayana (rejuvenating) nature.
Tips:
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Triphala juice.
b. Add the same quantity of water.
c. Drink it before taking food once or twice a day.
4. Obesity
Triphala is one of the safest Ayurvedic formulations to reduce weight. An increase in weight is due to unhealthy food habits and lifestyle which leads to a weak digestive fire. This increases accumulation of Ama causing an imbalance in meda dhatu, and resulting in obesity. Taking Triphala helps to remove Ama due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It also corrects the imbalance of meda dhatu. Triphala also removes waste material from the intestine due to its Rechana (mild laxative) property.
Tips:
a. Take ½- 2 teaspoons of Triphala Powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water preferably at the bedtime to control obesity.
Triphala is the most common Ayurvedic formulation that is used to get relief from constipation. Constipation is caused due to an aggravated Vata dosha. This can be due to frequent consumption of junk food, excess intake of coffee or tea, sleeping late at night, stress and depression. All these factors aggravate Vata in the large intestine and cause constipation. Taking Triphala helps to relieve constipation because of its Rechana (mild laxative) and Vata balancing properties.
Tips:
a. Take ½- 2 teaspoons of Triphala Powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water preferably at the bedtime to get rid of constipation.
2. Weak immunity
Triphala is widely used for increasing immunity to fight day to day health issues. This is due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
Tips:
a. Take ½ - 2 teaspoons of Triphala Powder with honey in the morning after taking light food.
b. Repeat this daily to boost your immunity.
3. Liver problems
Triphala helps to correct liver problems. According to Ayurveda, liver has a close relationship with Agni (digestive fire) and Pitta dosha. Any imbalance in Agni and Pitta dosha leads to liver impairment. Regular intake of Triphala helps to balance Agni and Pitta due to its Tridosha (Vata-Pitta-Kapha) balancing property. It keeps liver healthy and strong because of its Rasayana (rejuvenating) nature.
Tips:
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Triphala juice.
b. Add the same quantity of water.
c. Drink it before taking food once or twice a day.
4. Obesity
Triphala is one of the safest Ayurvedic formulations to reduce weight. An increase in weight is due to unhealthy food habits and lifestyle which leads to a weak digestive fire. This increases accumulation of Ama causing an imbalance in meda dhatu, and resulting in obesity. Taking Triphala helps to remove Ama due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It also corrects the imbalance of meda dhatu. Triphala also removes waste material from the intestine due to its Rechana (mild laxative) property.
Tips:
a. Take ½- 2 teaspoons of Triphala Powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water preferably at the bedtime to control obesity.
Recommended Dosage of Triphala
- Triphala Powder - 1/2-2 teaspoon once or twice a day[9].
- Triphala Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
- Triphala Tablet - 1-2 tablets twice a day.
- Triphala Juice - 2-3 teaspoon once or twice a day.
How to use Triphala
1. Triphala Powder
a. Take ½- 2 teaspoons of Triphala Powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water preferably at the bedtime
c. To get rid of constipation
Or
d. Take ½ - 2 teaspoons of Triphala powder with honey in the morning after taking light food
e. To maintain better immunity.
2. Triphala Capsule
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Triphala.
b. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
3. Triphala Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Tablets of Triphala.
b. Swallow them with water twice a day preferably after meals.
4. Triphala Juice
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Triphala juice.
b. Add the same quantity of water.
c. Drink it before taking food once or twice a day.
a. Take ½- 2 teaspoons of Triphala Powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water preferably at the bedtime
c. To get rid of constipation
Or
d. Take ½ - 2 teaspoons of Triphala powder with honey in the morning after taking light food
e. To maintain better immunity.
2. Triphala Capsule
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Triphala.
b. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
3. Triphala Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Tablets of Triphala.
b. Swallow them with water twice a day preferably after meals.
4. Triphala Juice
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Triphala juice.
b. Add the same quantity of water.
c. Drink it before taking food once or twice a day.
Benefits of Triphala
FAQs about Triphala benefits
1. Hair loss
Triphala helps to control hair fall and promote hair growth when applied on the scalp. This is because hair fall is mainly due to an aggravated Vata dosha in the body. Triphala helps in balancing Vata and also controls dandruff which is the prime cause of hair fall.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2- 1 tablespoon of Triphala powder.
b. Add 2 cups of water, boil the water on a medium flame until it reduces half in quantity.
c. Let it cool completely and apply on your scalp.
d. Keep for 30 minutes.
e. Wash your hair with a mild herbal shampoo.
f. Repeat it once or twice a week.
2. Acne
Triphala gives good result in case of skin problems like acne or pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha leads to an increased sebum production and clogging of pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. Another factor, an aggravation of Pitta causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. . Using Triphala on skin helps to reduce acne or pimples because of its Pitta-Kapha balancing properties.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon Triphala powder.
b. Mix it with coconut oil and make a paste.
c. Apply this paste on your face by gently rubbing the paste onto the skin.
d. Leave the Triphala mask for 15 minutes.
e. Then rinse the face with plain warm water.
Triphala helps to control hair fall and promote hair growth when applied on the scalp. This is because hair fall is mainly due to an aggravated Vata dosha in the body. Triphala helps in balancing Vata and also controls dandruff which is the prime cause of hair fall.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2- 1 tablespoon of Triphala powder.
b. Add 2 cups of water, boil the water on a medium flame until it reduces half in quantity.
c. Let it cool completely and apply on your scalp.
d. Keep for 30 minutes.
e. Wash your hair with a mild herbal shampoo.
f. Repeat it once or twice a week.
2. Acne
Triphala gives good result in case of skin problems like acne or pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha leads to an increased sebum production and clogging of pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. Another factor, an aggravation of Pitta causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. . Using Triphala on skin helps to reduce acne or pimples because of its Pitta-Kapha balancing properties.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon Triphala powder.
b. Mix it with coconut oil and make a paste.
c. Apply this paste on your face by gently rubbing the paste onto the skin.
d. Leave the Triphala mask for 15 minutes.
e. Then rinse the face with plain warm water.
Precautions when using Triphala
FAQs about Triphala precautions
Recommended Dosage of Triphala
- Triphala Powder - ½ -1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Triphala
1. Triphala Chickpea Facepack
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder.
b. Add chickpea paste to it.
c. Also add turmeric powder to it.
d. Make a paste and apply evenly on the face and neck.
e. Let it sit for 4-5 minutes.
f. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
g. Use this remedy 3-4 times a week to get rid of fine lines and blemishes.
2. Triphala Powder
a. Take ½ -1 teaspoon of fine Triphala powder.
b. Add it to 1 cup of boiling water.
c. Let it cool.
d. Strain the water with fine strainer.
e. Dip a cotton pad into the Triphala water.
f. Wipe your eyes gently with that water.
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder.
b. Add chickpea paste to it.
c. Also add turmeric powder to it.
d. Make a paste and apply evenly on the face and neck.
e. Let it sit for 4-5 minutes.
f. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
g. Use this remedy 3-4 times a week to get rid of fine lines and blemishes.
2. Triphala Powder
a. Take ½ -1 teaspoon of fine Triphala powder.
b. Add it to 1 cup of boiling water.
c. Let it cool.
d. Strain the water with fine strainer.
e. Dip a cotton pad into the Triphala water.
f. Wipe your eyes gently with that water.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Triphala is generally safe to take. However it may cause gastrointestinal problems if taken in large quantities.
Ayurvedic View
Triphala can be taken in the form of powder, juice or even tablets and capsules. You can take ½-2 teaspoon Triphala powder at night.
Modern Science View
It is best to take Triphala 30 minutes before going to bed as it is the best time to get its laxative and other digestive benefits.
Modern Science View
Yes, daily supplementation of Triphala is considered to be good. This helps to manage blood glucose levels, intestinal infections and provides relief from constipation. Furthermore, Triphala has antibacterial, immunomodulator, antioxidant, blood purifying and wound healing properties. Therefore, Triphala in recommended doses can be taken daily.
Tips :
1. Take 1-2 tablets of Triphala before bed time[1][2][10].
Tips :
1. Take 1-2 tablets of Triphala before bed time[1][2][10].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, you can take triphala daily as it is beneficial for your health due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property which helps fight against all types of internal or external infections. It also helps to manage the digestive system and reduces conditions like constipation due to its Deepan (appetizer), Pachan (digestion), Rechana (laxative) and Vata balancing properties.
Harad (Terminalia chebula) present in Triphala is responsible for managing skin diseases, asthma, diabetes, leucoderma and heart disorders. Presence of Baheda (Terminalia bellerica) might help manage anorexia, vomiting, piles, diarrhea and arthritis and Amla (Phyllanthus emblica) might help manage hysteria, menorrhagia and jaundice.
Harad (Terminalia chebula) present in Triphala is responsible for managing skin diseases, asthma, diabetes, leucoderma and heart disorders. Presence of Baheda (Terminalia bellerica) might help manage anorexia, vomiting, piles, diarrhea and arthritis and Amla (Phyllanthus emblica) might help manage hysteria, menorrhagia and jaundice.
Modern Science View
Triphala gently cleanses the colon and relieves constipation, flatulence and bloating. This is due to its mild laxative property[6].
Modern Science View
Triphala is good for eyes. It is a rich source of vitamin C and flavonoids. Studies also states that the antioxidant activity of Triphala helps to increase certain enzymes that are useful to improve eye health[2].
Modern Science View
Studies state that Triphala may exert anti-diabetic activity by inhibiting digestive enzymes. It may also decrease the absorption of glucose by inhibiting glycolytic enzymes. This helps in controlling blood glucose levels[2].
Modern Science View
Triphala has anti-inflammatory property and is good for arthritis. It reduces the activity of inflammatory mediators by blocking the channel from which they are generated. This reduces pain and inflammation in the joints[2].
Modern Science View
Triphala has anti-stress property and might help to control stress[2].
Ayurvedic View
Stress is usually attributed to an imbalance of Vata dosha, and is associated with irritation, irregular lifestyle, insomnia and fear. Taking Triphala helps to manage stress and its symptoms due to its Vata balancing property.
Modern Science View
Studies suggest that Triphala helps in weight loss and reduction of body fat. Regular intake of Triphala helps to lower total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL (bad cholesterol)[2].
Modern Science View
Triphala is useful for maintaining gastrointestinal health. But it is advisable not to consume Triphala in excess as it has mild laxative property[2].
Ayurvedic View
Triphala helps to correct overall digestion and maintain healthy gut function. But it has Rechana (mild laxative) property which can cause diarrhea if taken in excess with warm water.
Ayurvedic View
Triphala has Tridosha balancing (Vata-Pitta-Kapha) property and does not cause high blood pressure. But if you already have high blood pressure, it is advisable to consult your doctor before having Triphala.
Modern Science View
Triphala churna is considered to be beneficial because of its various properties. The powder is a good astringent that causes the contraction of skin cells and also prevents bleeding and ulceration in gums. Triphala churna also provide relief from constipation and acts as a mild laxative when taken with milk. Supplementation with 5 g of Triphala powder for 45 days might also help to lower blood glucose level[2][10][11].
Ayurvedic View
Triphala churna is beneficial in managing digestive problems like Agnimandya (weak digestive fire) and constipation due to its Deepan (appetizer), Pachan (digestion) and Rechana (laxative) properties. It helps to improve the digestive fire leading to improved digestion which promotes easy passage of stools from the body thereby relieving constipation.
Modern Science View
Triphala with milk acts as a mild laxative and is helpful in improving bowel movements. This helps manage the digestive tract and prevents constipation.
Tips :
1. Take 3 to 6 gms of Triphala churna with a glass of warm milk before going to bed[10].
Tips :
1. Take 3 to 6 gms of Triphala churna with a glass of warm milk before going to bed[10].
Ayurvedic View
Triphala with milk is a very beneficial combination as Triphala has Rechana (laxative) property and milk also has Rechana along with Balya (strength provider) properties. Together, they help improve digestion and give relief from constipation.
Modern Science View
Triphala might help manage type 2 diabetes. This is due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Triphala might help reduce the breakdown of carbohydrates which lowers blood sugar levels. It also prevents the damage of pancreatic cells and enhances insulin secretion.
A study suggests that supplementation with 5 g of Triphala powder for 45 days might help to lower blood glucose level[2].
A study suggests that supplementation with 5 g of Triphala powder for 45 days might help to lower blood glucose level[2].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes is a condition which occurs due to indigestion and formation of Ama (toxin remains in the body due to incomplete digestion) due to imbalanced Vata and Kapha doshas. Triphala helps to manage this condition due to its Deepan (appetizer), Pachan (digestion), Vata - Kapha balancing and Rasayana (rejuvenation) properties. This helps to digest the Ama which leads to controlled sugar levels.
Modern Science View
Yes, Triphala has anti-aging effects. Triphala affects ‘gene expression’ which is a mechanism that helps to generate new skin cells and repair the older ones. It also enhances elasticity and improves skin texture to make it look younger[2].
Modern Science View
Melanin is a pigment that is responsible for the skin tone. Higher the quantity of melanin, darker will be the skin tone. Studies state that Triphala contains some constituents that helps to inhibit the formation of melanin thus helps to get you a lighter skin tone[2].
Ayurvedic View
Triphala is safe for all types of skin as it keeps it healthy and glowing. But if you have a dry skin, it is advisable to use it with coconut oil.
Modern Science View
No Triphala helps control eye irritation. Triphala is a rich source of vitamin C and flavonoids. It has potent antioxidant activity that helps to maintain eye health[2].
Ayurvedic View
No, in fact, Triphala is widely used for treating eye problems like burning, itching or irritation due to its Pitta balancing property. It gives cooling effects and removes eye irritation when Triphala mixed water is used to clean the eyes.
Modern Science View
Triphala has various benefits for the face due to its antioxidant or free radical scavenging property. The antioxidants present in Triphala help to prevent hyperpigmentation (white patches of skin), melanin production, various skin diseases and ageing symptoms. Triphala also has radioprotective property which helps protect the skin cells from harmful radiation[2].
References
- Kumar NS,Nair AS, Nair AM, et al.Pharmacological and therapeutic effects of Triphala – A literature review.Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry 2016; 5(3): 23-27.
- Peterson CT, Denniston K, Chopra D.Therapeutic Uses of Triphala in Ayurvedic Medicine.J Altern Complement Med. 2017 Aug 1; 23(8): 607–614.
- Chouhan B, Kumawat RC, Kotecha M.Triphala:A Comprehensive review. Int.J.Res.Ayuveda Pharm.2013;4(4):612-617.
- Chandran U, Mehendale N, Tillu G, et al.Network Pharmacology of Ayurveda Formulation Triphala with Special Reference to Anti-Cancer Property.Combinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening, 2015;18(6):1-9.
- Gowda DV, Muguli G, Rangesh PR, et al.PHYTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIONS OF Triphala: AYURVEDIC FORMULATION - A REVIEW.Int J Pharm Sci Rev Res.2012;15(2):61-65.
- Munshi R, Bhalerao S, Rathi P.et.al.An open-label, prospective clinical study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TLPL/AY/01/2008 in the management of functional constipation.J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2011; 2(3): 144–152.
- Bajaj N, Tandon S.The effect of Triphala and Chlorhexidine mouthwash on dental plaque, gingival inflammation, and microbial growth.Int J Ayurveda Res. 2011; 2(1): 29–36.
- Kamali SH, Khalaj AR, Hasani-Ranjbar S, et al.Efficacy of ‘Itrifal Saghir’, a combination of three medicinal plants in the treatment of obesity:A randomized controlled trial.Daru. 2012; 20(1):33.
- Ayurved Sarsanghrah.Shri Bidyanath Ayurved Bhavan Ltd.DPB Publications.
- Rawat AKS, Srivastava S, Ojha SK. Herbal Remedies for Management of Constipation and its Ayurvedic Perspectives.JIMSA.2012; 25(1):27-30.
- Upadhyay A, Agrahari P, Singh DK. A Review on the Pharmacological Aspects of Terminalia chebula. International Journal of Pharmacology.2014;10(6):289-298.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.