Integrated Phytochemical Evaluation of Triphala Extract: TLC Detection and GC–MS Elucidation of Bioactive Compounds

Triphala, a classical Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation composed of Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica, and Phyllanthus emblica, is well known for its therapeutic efficacy and wide range of biological applications. Its pharmacological potential is attributed to a rich diversity of phytoconstituents, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds. Scientific validation and standardization of such formulations require systematic phytochemical evaluation using both conventional and advanced analytical techniques. The present study was undertaken to investigate the phytochemicals composition of Triphala extract using TLC and GC-MS. TLC was done to detect gallic gallic acid a major component of Triphala. GCMS analysis was carried out enabling the separation and identification of volatile components based upon the retention time and mass fragmentation patterns. Several compounds of pharmacological relevance were identified including phenolic acids fatty acids and flavonoid derivatives which are consistent with the known antioxidant and therapeutic properties of Triphala. This integrated approach combining TLC and GC-MS along with standard biochemical testing provided both qualitative and confirmatory data on the phytoconstituents of Triphala. The fidings not only support the traditional claims but also contribute to a scientific validation ensuring quality and paving the way for further pharmaceutical and nutraceutical approaches.