Microwave-assisted extraction of Triphala remedy for healthy gummy jelly production

Triphala is a well-known Ayurvedic herbal formulation consisting of fruits from three plants: Terminalia chebula , Terminalia bellerica , and Phyllanthus emblica . This remedy not only aids in detoxification and digestion support but also provides a rich source of polyphenols and flavonoids that exert powerful antioxidant action [ 1 ]. Many studies have shown that regular consumption of Triphala can help promote the immune system, reduce inflammation, improve gut health, and even support weight management, making it a valuable addition to healthy products [ 2 ] [ 3 ]. This work aimed to develop an efficient microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) method with an edible sweet-tasting solvent, glycerin, to extract polyphenols from Triphala for making healthy gummy jelly. The effect of glycerin content (0-100% w/w), solid-to-solvent mass ratio (1:5 to 1:20), power (200-500 watts), and duration (up to 4 cycles, 1 cycle=on 30 sec / off 30 sec) was investigated regarding the content of gallic acid and ellagic acid, which was analyzed using HPLC [ 4 ]. The optimum MAE condition was 25% glycerin, 1:20 solid-to-solvent mass ratio, 200 watts, and 4 cycles, which yielded the maximum content of gallic acid and ellagic acid for 1,879.8±45.5 and 765.8±16.2 mg/g of extract, respectively. This extract has sweet and sour tastes. Our healthy gummy jelly contained gelatin, fructooligosaccharides, inulin, xylitol, honey, and flavoring agents, while the addition of Triphala extract resulted in a dark brown color. Overall, these findings suggested that the Triphala extract with this MAE condition might be useful for making functional gummy jelly for health-conscious consumers. Publication History Article published online: 05 March 2026 © 2026. Thieme. All rights reserved. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Oswald-Hesse-Straße 50, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany