This randomized, double-blinded, crossover and placebo controlled examine the analgesic activity of a single dose of Terminalia chebula in healthy humans. 12 participants have received a placebo or 1 g or Terminalia chebula aqueous extract (≥ 15 % chebulinic acid, ≥ 10% chebulagic acid, ≥ 15% other low molecular weight hydrolysable tannins).

A mechanical pain model was used in this study. Briefly, pain was assessed though a force applied to the nail bed (Randall-Selitto test). Pain threshold (when participant first experiences pain) and pain tolerance (when participant was unable to tolerate pain) were assessed.

As shown in the figure, pain threshold has been increased after the T. chebula intake (p < 0.001 vs. placebo), as tolerance force (p < 0.001). Similarly, threshold time and tolerance time have been increased after T. chebula I comparison to placebo (p < 0.001, data not shown). Based on these results, Terminalia chebula may be interesting for pain management, as for instance for osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Kumar CU, Pokuri VK, Pingali U. Evaluation of the Analgesic Activity of Standardized Aqueous Extract of Terminalia chebula in Healthy Human Participants Using Hot Air Pain Model.J Clin Diagn Res. 2015 May;9(5):FC01-4.