What is Amla (Indian Gooseberry) And its Health Benefits

Amla a tree that is small to medium in size having height 1 to 8m grows throughout India. The leaves are light green in color, subsessile, simple, & closely set along branchlets. Flowers of the Amla tree are greenish-yellow in color. The fruits of Amla are spherical in shape with a hard & smooth appearance. When the fruit is unripe its color is light green-yellow. But the ripened fruit of Amla is dark yellow color berries. The fruit of this herb is considered as Rasayana means having rejuvenating property. Its fruit is commonly used for all medicinal purposes. Amla fruit is rich in vitamin C that makes it a powerful antioxidant. This herb has the property to fight against various bacteria, viruses, & any kind of ailments. Amla gives effective results on Common cold, Skin Diseases, Cancer, Hypertension, Eye Diseases, Hair problems, etc. The anti-inflammatory property of this herb relieves pain. It is one of the best natural immunity booster herbs. Eating Amla can improve your immunity to fight against diseases.

According to Ayurveda Amla help in balancing the three doshas (Kapha, Vata, Pitta) in the body. Drinking Amla juice daily keeps you blemishes-free, maintain your health, & provides a natural glow to the skin. The overall detoxification of the body is done with the use of this amazing herb. In the preparation of Chaywanprash Amla fruit is the key ingredient along with other herbs. Daily use of Chaywanprash can rejuvenate your whole body.

What are the different synonyms of the herb Amla?

Phyllanthus Emblica, Indian gooseberry, Amalaki, Malacca tree, Dhatri, Shriphala, Dhatrika, Shita, Vrushya, Gayatrei, Amrita, Amritfala, Tishyaphala, Sheetaphala, Nellikai, Nelli, Usheeri kaya.

What is the Source of the Herb Amla?

The main source of Amla is plant-based.

Various Health Benefits of Amla

Why herb Amla is considered as a natural rejuvenator?

Ayurvedic Point of View:

According to Ayurveda Amla is considered one of the best Rasayana. It rejuvenates the body cells & builds strong immunity. In Charak Samhita Rasayana, chapter Amla is used in the form of Chaywanprash. In ancient times there is a story of “Chyawan Rishi” who consumed Chaywanprash and after eating Chaywanprash, he had rejuvenated his body from an older man to a young adult. That is why it is considered as a natural rejuvenator.

Modern point of View:

The astringent & antibacterial property of this herb builds a strong immunity. Amla is also considered as a strong antioxidant that repairs & prevent the damaged cells. Hence, it helps in rejuvenating the body naturally.

Healthy tips:

• Consume one teaspoonful of Amla Chyawanprash with hot milk once daily.
• You can also make a paste from the ripened Amla fruit. Store it in a container & consume one teaspoonful daily.

What are the benefits of the herb Amla for good digestion?

Ayurvedic Point of View:

The coolant nature of Amla balances pitta dosha in the body. As we knew for good digestion “Sama Agni” is required. If there is excessive pitta dosha in the stomach it can cause digestive issues like indigestion, burps, hyperacidity, excessive acidity, burning sensation, etc. So, for avoiding this, Amla is a relevant herb.

Modern point of View:

The fruits of Amla provides a good source of fiber, vitamins, & minerals. This all-in combination balances the stomach acids. Hence, it relieves digestive issues such as hyperacidity, indigestion, constipation, burning sensation, etc. It is a natural appetizer that provides good digestion.

Healthy tips:

• Consume 20ml of Amla juice with an equal amount of water on an empty stomach.
• Take a teaspoonful of Amla powder with lukewarm water once daily.

How much success is herb Amla?

Amla herb has insufficient evidence in various health issues.
Different FAQs about the various benefits of herb Amla

• Can Amla be used in a common cold?
• What are the different benefits of Amla fruit?
• Does Amla be used for weight loss?
• Can we consume Amla on en empty stomach?
• How Amla can be used for hair?
• Is Amla Good for Skin?

How herb Amla is used for reducing pain in Osteoarthritis?

Ayurvedic Point of View:

Amla balance the Vata dosha that is the main cause of osteoarthritis (sandhigatVata). Hence it reduces the pain, swelling, & improves joint mobility in osteoarthritis patients.

Modern point of View:

The anti-inflammatory, analgesic, & antioxidant properties of herb Amla reduces pain, swelling, & inflammation in osteoarthritis patients. It improves the mobility of joints & protects the cartilage cushion between the joints.

How herb Amla is beneficial for Cancer patients?

Ayurvedic Point of View:

In Ayurveda Cancer is correlated with “Arbud” that occurs due to an imbalance of all three doshas in the body. Amla herb helps to balance the three doshas (Kapha, Vata, Pitta). Hence can be used for Cancer patients.

Modern point of View:

Amla provides vitamin C in ample that boost the immunity naturally. The antioxidant nature of this herb inhibits the enzymes topoisomerase, & cdc25 tyrosine phosphatase that is responsible for the multiplication & growth of cancer cells.

How Amla herb is used for Eye disorders?

Ayurvedic Point of View:

All three doshas are balanced with the use of the herb Amla. So, it treats eye disorders naturally.

Modern point of View:

The antioxidant, antimicrobial, & anti-inflammatory properties of this herb reduce itching of eyes, redness, burning sensation, etc. It improves vision naturally.

What is the recommended dosage of herb Amla?

Amla Powder: Take 1 to 2 teaspoonful once or twice daily.
Amla Juice: Take 20ml once or twice daily.
Amla Paste: Take ½ to 1 teaspoonful once or twice.
Amla Oil: Use as per requirement.
Amla Candy: Take 2 to 4 once daily.
Amla Murabba: Take 1 with hot milk once.

The Best method of using herb Amla:

Amla Powder: Dry fresh Amla fruit in sunlight. Make a fine powder & store it in a container. You can consume this powder as required.
Amla Juice: Take a few fresh Amla fruit cut it into few pieces. Add a little amount of water & blend it in a blender. Filter this mixture & drink once daily.
Amla Paste: Boil 3 to 4 Amla & make a paste. Use this one teaspoonful with lukewarm water.
Amla Oil: You can use Amla oil for your dried hair. Use this on your scalp & massage gently.
Amla Candy: Make Amla candies at home & consume daily.
Amla Murabba: Boil few Amla peel off the skin. Store it in a container with sugar syrup. Now you can use this one daily.

FAQs (Frequently asked questions):

Can Amla be used in a common cold?

Ayurvedic point of view:

According to Ayurveda when there is excessive formation of Kapha it can cause cough, cold. Amla has the power to balance Kapha dosha, so take 2 teaspoonfuls of Amla powder mix it with honey. Consume this once daily.

Modern point of view:

As Amla is rich in vitamin C so, it can fight against any infection related to the common cold. The antioxidant nature of this herb provides good results in the common cold.

What are the different benefits of Amla fruit?

Ayurvedic point of view:

Amla is one of the best herbs for dealing with different diseases. The fruits of Amla are used for preparing Chyawanprash that is a natural Rasayana. Amla fruit gives good results in cough, common cold, vision problems, hair problems, skin diseases, etc.

Modern point of view:

Amla fruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, etc. The use of its fruit gives effective results in digestive disorders, eye diseases, skin problems, bacterial, & viral infections.

Does Amla be used for weight loss?

Ayurvedic point of view:

Most people gain weight due to improper digestion & weak metabolism. So usage of Amla improves metabolism naturally. Hence controls weight.

Modern point of view:

The high fiber & antioxidant nature of this herb reduces weight naturally. So Amla consumption is good for health.

Can we use Amla on an empty stomach?

Ayurvedic point of view:

Yes, Amla can be used on an empty stomach due to its coolant nature & pitta pacifying property.

Modern point of view:

Yes, it can be used on an empty stomach due to its antioxidant nature.

How Amla can be used for hair?

Ayurvedic point of view:

Due to its astringent nature, healing property, & rejuvenating nature it can be used for hair. It maintains hair healthy, reduces itchiness, dandruff.

Modern point of view:

The antioxidant nature of Amla fights against free radicals & acts as a hair tonic.

Is Amla Good for Skin?

Ayurvedic point of view:

The healing & rejuvenating property of Amla provides good results in skin diseases. It balances excessive pitta dosha responsible for skin diseases.

Modern point of view:

The antioxidant nature of this herb protects the skin from UV rays. It improves skin elasticity naturally.

Common Side Effects & Precautions while consuming Amla:

The excessive usage of Amla can cause hyperacidity, loose stools, weight loss, ulcers, & high blood pressure. So always take this under the supervision of a doctor.

Amla (Indian Gooseberry), also known as Amalaki in Ayurveda, is a small, green fruit that grows on the Phyllanthus emblica tree. It’s revered as one of the most powerful and nutritious fruits in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda, where it is often referred to as a “superfood” for its health benefits.

Amla is rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and numerous phytonutrients that support overall health and vitality. It has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic practices to improve digestion, boost immunity, and promote longevity.

Key Health Benefits of Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

1. Boosts Immunity

Amla is packed with vitamin C—a potent antioxidant that plays a key role in boosting the immune system. In fact, it contains up to 20 times more vitamin C than oranges. Vitamin C helps stimulate the production of white blood cells that fight off infections, making Amla a natural remedy for colds, flu, and other infections.

• How it works: The high vitamin C content helps strengthen the body’s immune defense by increasing the production of collagen, a protein that supports the skin and tissues, and immune cells that fight infections.

2. Supports Digestive Health

Amla has been used in Ayurveda as a digestive tonic. It promotes healthy digestion, balances the Pitta dosha, and has natural laxative properties, making it effective for alleviating issues like constipation, gas, and acid reflux.

• How it works: Amla regulates acid levels in the stomach, supports the production of digestive enzymes, and improves intestinal motility. It also helps detoxify the digestive tract by stimulating the liver to produce bile, which aids in digestion.

3. Improves Skin Health

Amla is considered an excellent rejuvenative for the skin in Ayurveda. The vitamin C in Amla helps to boost collagen production, which keeps the skin firm, elastic, and hydrated. Amla also has anti-aging properties, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and signs of premature aging.

• How it works: The antioxidants in Amla neutralize free radicals, which are responsible for skin aging, pigmentation, and damage. Amla’s anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation.

4. Enhances Hair Growth

Amla is a popular ingredient in Ayurvedic hair care formulations due to its ability to promote hair growth and scalp health. It strengthens the hair follicles, improves scalp circulation, and provides nutrients that support healthy hair growth.

• How it works: Amla is rich in vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production. This vitamin helps prevent hair thinning, brittleness, and premature graying. Amla also nourishes the hair from the root to tip, making it stronger and shinier.

5. Supports Heart Health

Amla is considered beneficial for cardiovascular health in Ayurveda. It helps regulate blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels, all of which are crucial for heart health.

• How it works: Amla contains flavonoids, polyphenols, and fiber, which help lower bad cholesterol (LDL), reduce oxidative stress, and support healthy heart function. The fruit also promotes healthy circulation by improving the health of the blood vessels and reducing inflammation.

6. Regulates Blood Sugar

Amla has been traditionally used to balance blood sugar levels and manage conditions like diabetes. It enhances the action of insulin and helps regulate blood glucose.

• How it works: The fiber in Amla helps slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar. The antioxidants and polyphenols in Amla also help reduce oxidative stress, which is often elevated in individuals with diabetes.

7. Promotes Detoxification

Amla is an excellent detoxifier for the body. It supports the liver and kidneys in eliminating toxins from the body and improves the body’s natural detoxification processes.

• How it works: Amla enhances liver function, boosting bile secretion, which helps in the digestion and absorption of fats. It also has a mild diuretic effect, helping the body expel toxins through urine.

8. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties

The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in Amla help protect the body from chronic inflammation, oxidative damage, and age-related diseases.

• How it works: Amla neutralizes free radicals, which are unstable molecules that cause cellular damage. The anti-inflammatory properties of Amla reduce inflammation, helping to manage conditions like arthritis, joint pain, and inflammatory bowel diseases.

9. Improves Respiratory Health

Amla is also known for supporting lung health and improving the function of the respiratory system. It helps clear phlegm, mucus, and other toxins from the lungs and is often used to treat conditions like cough, cold, and asthma.

• How it works: The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Amla help clear the airways, reduce respiratory inflammation, and improve oxygen intake.

10. Supports Eye Health

Amla is a natural remedy for improving vision and eye health. It is rich in vitamin A, carotenoids, and antioxidants, which help protect the eyes from free radical damage and age-related issues like cataracts and macular degeneration.

• How it works: Amla helps nourish and protect the eye tissues, improve vision clarity, and reduce the risk of eye infections and strain caused by prolonged screen exposure.

How to Use Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

• Fresh Amla: The fruit can be eaten raw or made into Amla juice. You can mix it with honey or other herbs to enhance its taste. However, fresh Amla has a very sour taste, so many prefer it in its processed forms.

• Amla Powder: Dried Amla can be powdered and taken as a supplement. A teaspoon of Amla powder mixed with warm water or added to smoothies or teas is a common way to consume it.

• Amla Juice: Drinking Amla juice daily can help improve digestion, skin health, and boost immunity.

• Amla in Hair Care: Amla oil or a paste of Amla powder mixed with water or other herbs can be applied to the scalp to enhance hair growth, reduce dandruff, and improve hair texture.

• Amla in Ayurvedic Formulas: Amla is often combined with other herbs in traditional Ayurvedic formulations like Triphala (a combination of Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki) to support overall health.

Side Effects of Amla

While Amla is generally considered safe, it should be consumed in moderation. Excessive intake of Amla, especially in the form of juice, can lead to:

• Acidity: Amla is very sour and may cause acidity or heartburn in individuals with sensitive stomachs.

• Loose stools: Because of its laxative effects, consuming too much Amla may lead to diarrhea or loose stools.

• Blood thinners: Amla has mild blood-thinning properties, so individuals on blood-thinning medications should consult a doctor before using Amla.

Conclusion

Amla (Indian Gooseberry) is a powerhouse of nutrients with numerous health benefits. Its high vitamin C content, antioxidant properties, and ability to support digestive, skin, hair, and immune health make it an invaluable fruit in Ayurveda. Whether consumed fresh, as juice, or in powdered form, Amla is an excellent addition to your diet to enhance overall health and well-being.

As always, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or Ayurvedic practitioner before starting any new herb or supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Amla (Indian Gooseberry), scientifically known as Phyllanthus emblica, is a small, green fruit that grows on the Amla tree, native to India and other parts of Southeast Asia. It is widely regarded in Ayurveda for its numerous health benefits and is considered a “superfood” due to its rich nutritional profile. Amla is known for its tangy taste, which is both sour and slightly bitter, and its ability to balance all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) in Ayurvedic medicine.

Nutritional Profile of Amla:

Amla is an excellent source of essential nutrients, including:

• Vitamin C: Amla is one of the richest sources of vitamin C, providing up to 20 times more vitamin C than oranges. Vitamin C is essential for immune health, skin health, and overall vitality.

• Antioxidants: It contains flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and tannins, which help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

• Fiber: Amla is rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.

• Minerals: It provides essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, which contribute to overall health.

• Amino Acids: Amla contains several essential amino acids that support the body’s growth and repair.

Health Benefits of Amla (Indian Gooseberry):

1. Boosts Immunity:

   • Amla is a powerful immunomodulator that enhances the body’s natural defense mechanisms. Its high vitamin C content helps stimulate the production of white blood cells, improving the immune system’s ability to fight infections and diseases.

2. Rich in Antioxidants:

   • The antioxidants in amla, such as vitamin C, polyphenols, and flavonoids, help neutralize free radicals, preventing cell damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. It also helps delay the aging process by protecting the skin and internal organs from oxidative stress.

3. Improves Digestion:

   • Amla has digestive properties that support overall gut health. It helps increase digestive fire (Agni), which promotes better digestion and absorption of nutrients. Amla also relieves constipation by promoting regular bowel movements and has been used as a natural remedy for acidity and heartburn.

4. Supports Healthy Skin:

   • Amla is widely used in Ayurvedic skincare due to its ability to detoxify and rejuvenate the skin. The vitamin C in amla promotes collagen production, keeping the skin youthful, glowing, and elastic. It helps reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots, while also treating acne and blemishes.

   • It is also known to promote a healthy scalp, prevent premature graying, and hair fall, and strengthen hair follicles.

5. Enhances Hair Growth:

   • Amla strengthens the hair roots, nourishes the scalp, and encourages hair growth. It is believed to balance the Pitta dosha, which can help in preventing hair thinning and early graying.

   • You can apply amla oil or use amla powder to massage the scalp for improving hair health.

6. Regulates Blood Sugar:

   • Amla helps in lowering blood sugar levels by improving the insulin sensitivity and supporting pancreatic function. Regular consumption of amla may assist in managing diabetes and regulating blood sugar levels.

   • Its high fiber content also aids in slowing the absorption of sugars in the bloodstream.

7. Liver Detoxification:

   • Amla supports liver health by aiding in detoxification and improving liver function. It helps increase the production of bilirubin and supports the liver’s ability to process toxins. This makes amla an excellent herb for liver cleansing and maintaining optimal liver health.

8. Heart Health:

   • Amla helps regulate cholesterol levels, reduce triglycerides, and prevent the formation of blood clots, thereby promoting overall heart health. The antioxidants in amla also protect the blood vessels and improve circulation, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and stroke.

9. Anti-inflammatory Properties:

   • Amla has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body, especially in conditions like arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory diseases. It can be used to alleviate pain and swelling, improve joint health, and enhance mobility.

10. Supports Weight Loss:

    • The fiber and low-calorie nature of amla help in weight management by promoting satiety, reducing cravings, and improving metabolism. It also helps regulate fat metabolism, making it beneficial for people looking to manage or reduce their weight.

11. Balances Doshas:

    • According to Ayurveda, amla helps balance all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), making it an ideal herb for overall health. It especially helps in balancing Pitta, which is responsible for heat and inflammation in the body.

12. Detoxifies the Body:

    • Amla is a natural blood purifier and detoxifier. It aids in flushing out toxins (Ama) from the body and supports the body’s natural detoxification processes, improving overall vitality and health.

13. Improves Respiratory Health:

    • Amla has been traditionally used to treat cough, cold, and asthma. It helps in soothing the throat, reducing mucus production, and improving lung health. It is also useful in treating bronchitis and other respiratory infections.

14. Improves Mental Health:

    • Amla is known for its ability to calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote mental clarity. It has adaptogenic properties that help the body handle stress more effectively and can improve overall cognitive function.

How to Consume Amla:

1. Fresh Amla:

   • The fresh fruit can be eaten as is or mixed with other fruits or juices. It has a sour taste and can be quite tart.

2. Amla Juice:

   • Amla juice is a convenient way to consume this nutrient-rich fruit. You can drink a small amount (about 1-2 tablespoons) of fresh amla juice daily, often diluted with water or mixed with honey to improve the taste.

3. Amla Powder:

   • Amla powder can be added to smoothies, soups, or other foods. It can also be mixed with water to make a herbal drink, or it can be used as a face pack for skin rejuvenation.

4. Amla Chutney or Pickle:

   • Amla can be made into chutney or pickle, which is commonly consumed in Indian households. It enhances the flavor of food and provides health benefits.

5. Amla Capsules or Supplements:

   • Amla supplements or capsules are available in health stores and can be taken if you’re looking for a more concentrated form of amla for health benefits.

Side Effects and Precautions:

• Amla is generally safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, excessive consumption can cause some mild side effects such as gastritis, acidity, or diarrhea due to its high vitamin C content. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before taking amla, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or taking medication for specific health conditions.

Conclusion:

Amla (Indian Gooseberry) is a powerful and versatile fruit that offers a wide range of health benefits, from improving digestion and boosting immunity to supporting heart health, detoxifying the body, and promoting healthy skin. It is a key herb in Ayurvedic medicine and a natural remedy for various ailments, making it an excellent addition to a healthy lifestyle.