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Amla

Amla
Amla, also known as “Indian gooseberry”, is loaded with nutrients and is the richest natural source of vitamin C. It is widely used for many health problems. Regular use of Amla also boosts immunity. According to Ayurveda, Amla is one of the best Rasayanic tonics that helps to brighten the skin, purify the blood, and improve eyesight. Medicinal properties of amla are defined in the following shloka as:
हरीतकीसमं धात्रीफलं किन्तु विशेषतः। रक्तपित्तप्रमेहघ्नं परं वृष्यं रसायनम्।
हन्ति वातं तदम्लत्वात्पित्तं माधुर्यशैत्यतः। कफ रूक्षकषायत्वात्फलधाञ्यास्त्रिदोषजित्।
यस्य यस्य फलस्येह वीर्यं भवति यादृशम्। तस्य तस्यैव वीर्येण मज्जानमपि निर्दिशेत्।
Amla is beneficial for Pitta disorders. It also works to improve stamina and body defense against any infection because of its Vrishya (strength provider) and Rasayana (immunity) properties. Amla balances Vata because of Amala (sour) taste, balances Pitta because of its Madhura (sweet) and Sita (cold) nature. It also controls Kapha due to its Ruksha (dryness)-Kashya (astringent) properties.
Amla helps improve digestion and relieve acidity. It is also effective for diabetics as it helps control blood glucose levels. In addition to that, it helps prevent aging and greying of hair.
There are a number of ways in which you can consume Amla. It can be taken in the form of juice, murabba, chutney, and candy or even eaten raw[1][2][4]. Its beneficial properties remain nearly the same in all forms.

What are the synonyms of Amla?

Emblica officinalis, Indian gooseberry, Amalaka, Amrtaphala, Dhatriphala, Amlakhi, Aonla, Ambala, Nellikayi, Nellikka, Anvala, Anala, Aula, Nelli, Usirika, Amli, Amlaj

What is the source of Amla?

Plant Based

Benefits of Amla

What are the benefits of Amla for Indigestion?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla helps manage indigestion by improving the Pachak Agni (digestion fire). It also helps in easy expulsion of stool due to its Rechana (mild laxative) property.

What are the benefits of Amla for Obesity?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla helps control weight by improving the metabolism due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) property.

What are the benefits of Amla for High cholesterol?

scientific
Modern Science View
Amla might be useful in controlling high cholesterol. PPAR-α is the main protein involved in lipid and cholesterol metabolism. Amla helps to increase the level of PPAR-α, thereby reducing the level of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the body[4].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla improves body metabolism and helps lower cholesterol by increasing the Pachak Agni (digestive fire).

What are the benefits of Amla for Dysentery?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla helps manage bloody diarrhea (dysentery) due to its Kashaya (astringent) property. It helps control bleeding and reduce contraction of the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract.

What are the benefits of Amla for Osteoarthritis?

scientific
Modern Science View
Amla might help in reducing pain and improve mobility in osteoarthritis by protecting the cartilage cushion between the joints[4].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
In Ayurveda, Osteoarthritis is called Sandhivata in which an aggravated Vata causes pain and swelling in the joints. Amla has Vata balancing property and relieves pain and improves mobility.

What are the benefits of Amla for Joint pain?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla helps to control joint pains and swelling due to an aggravated Vata. Amla has Vata balancing property and relieves pain and improves mobility.

What are the benefits of Amla for Pancreatitis?

scientific
Modern Science View
Since there is no definite cure for acute pancreatitis, Amla shows a protective action by fighting against the free radicals and reducing the number of inflammatory mediators[4].

What are the benefits of Amla for Cancer?

scientific
Modern Science View
Vitamin C in Amla is known to increase the activity of natural killer cells leading to toxicity and breakdown of the cancerous cells. Amla also inhibits the growth and multiplication of cancer cells to some extent by inhibiting the enzymes topoisomerase and cdc25 tyrosine phosphatase[4].

What are the benefits of Amla for Diabetes?

scientific
Modern Science View
Amla helps to improve the glucose metabolism in diabetic patients therefore reducing the fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels in the body. Amla also lowers the risk of various diabetic complications by fighting against the free radicals, decreasing the inflammatory mediators and improving the function of blood vessels[4].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla helps to control blood sugar level by regulating carbohydrate metabolism due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties.

What are the benefits of Amla for Diarrhea?

scientific
Modern Science View
Excessive contraction of the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract causes diarrhea with abdominal pain and cramping. Amla has antispasmodic property and helps relax the smooth muscles of the abdomen[4].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla helps to control diarrhea due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Sita (cold) properties which help reduce contraction of the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract.

How effective is Amla?

Insufficient evidence
Atherosclerosis (plaque deposition inside the arteries), Cancer, Diabetes, Diarrhea, Dysentery, High cholesterol, Indigestion, Joint pain, Obesity, Osteoarthritis, Pancreatitis

Precautions when using Amla

Advice from Experts
scientific
Modern Science View
1. Amla might increase the risk of bleeding or bruising in people with bleeding disorders. Therefore, Amla should be used with caution in such cases[3].
2. Amla might increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. So it is advisable to stop taking Amla at least 2 weeks before the scheduled surgery[3].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
1. Always take Amla juice in a recommended dose and duration under a doctor’s supervision. A high dose can cause dryness in the skin.
2. Avoid Amla in case of excessive Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion).
3. Avoid Amla in case of aggravated Kapha problems like coughing.
4. Avoid drinking Amla juice at night due to its cold potency and astringent taste.
Breastfeeding
scientific
Modern Science View
Due to lack of scientific evidence, medicinal use of Amla should be avoided if you are breastfeeding[3].
Patients with diabetes
Important
scientific
Modern Science View
Amla may lower blood glucose level. So it is generally advisable to monitor the blood glucose regularly if you are taking Amla along with anti-diabetic drugs[3].
Pregnancy
scientific
Modern Science View
Due to lack of scientific evidence, medicinal use of Amla should be avoided during pregnancy[3].

Recommended Dosage of Amla

  • Amla Juice - 3-4 teaspoons once or twice a day.
  • Amla Powder - ¼- ½ teaspoon twice a day.
  • Amla Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
  • Amla Tablet - 1-2 tablets twice a day.
  • Amla Candy - 2-3 candies in a day.

How to use Amla

1. Amla raw fruit
a. Take 2-3 pieces of raw Amla fruit.
b. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to taste.
c. Have it before meals to get relief from hyperacidity.

2. Amla Juice
a. Take 3-4 teaspoons of Amla Juice.
b. Add the same quantity of water and drink before taking food once or twice a day.
c. Avoid drinking at night especially during winters.

3. Amla Churna
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Amla churna.
b. Mix it with honey or drink with water before lunch and dinner.

4. Amla Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Amla capsule.
b. Swallow it with water, twice a day, before or after meals.

5. Amla Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Amla tablets.
b. Swallow it with water, twice a day, before or after meals.

6. Amla Candy
a. Take 2-3 pieces of Amla candy.
b. Eat them before or after meals.

7. Amla Murabba
a. Wash 20 pieces of Amla and prick them with the help of a fork.
b. Boil 1-2 cups of water in a pan add prickled Amla's to it, cook for 10 minutes till it becomes soft.
c. Now, make a sugar syrup by adding 2 cups of sugar in 2 cups of boiling water and simmer on a low flame till the consistency becomes thick.
d. Add boiled Amla to the sugar syrup
e. Let it stand for 1-2 hours till the Amla properly absorbs the sugar syrup.
f. This final product is known as Amla Murabba. You can have them preferably before lunch and dinner.

8. Amla Chutney
a. Take ½ cups of Amla.
b. Add 1 cup of chopped coriander and 2-4 green chilies to it.
c. Also, add a pinch of hing (asafoetida) and salt as per your taste.
d. Have this Amla chutney with meals.

9. Amla-Carrot-beetroot Juice
a. Take 1-2 pieces of Amla, 2 carrots and 1 beetroot. Cut them in small pieces.
b. Now put all the ingredients into a juicer.
c. Strain the juice with a strainer.
d. Squeeze ½ lemon and salt as per your taste.
e. Drink this juice after lunch for better digestion[2].

Benefits of Amla

What are the benefits of Amla for Eye disorders?

scientific
Modern Science View
Amla might be useful to manage a number of eye disorders like lacrimation (tear formation), redness, burning, itching of the eye and in improvement of the eyesight. Tannins in Amla help to manage diabetic cataract and also prevent loss of vision by reducing the fluid pressure in the eye. Due to its antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Amla is known as a natural eye tonic[4][5].

How effective is Amla?

Insufficient evidence
Eye disorders, Vitiligo

Precautions when using Amla

Allergy
scientific
Modern Science View
Apply Amla to a small area first to test for possible allergic reactions. People who are allergic to Amla or its constituents should use it under a doctor’s supervision.
Tip:
Always use fresh Amla juice or paste externally as commercially available Amla products contain preservatives which can cause skin irritations.

Recommended Dosage of Amla

  • Amla Paste - ½- 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
  • Amla Oil - 2-5 drops or as per your requirement.
  • Amla Juice - 1-2 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
  • Amla Powder - 1-2 teaspoon or as per your requirement.

How to use Amla

1. Amla Paste
a. Boil 2-3 raw Amla, deseed and crush them to form a paste.
b. Add coconut oil into the paste.
c. Apply it on the skin and keep for 30-40 minutes and wash with lukewarm water.
d. Use it once a day[2].

2. Amla Oil
a. Use Amla based oil on the scalp 2-3 times a week for thick and long hairs.
b. For excessive dryness use daily[8].

3. Amla Juice
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Amla juice.
b. Mix with rose water or freshwater.
c. Apply it on the skin and keep for 30-40 minutes and wash with lukewarm water.
d. Use it once a day.

4. Amla Powder
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Amla powder.
b. Mix with water and make a smooth paste.
c. Apply it on the affected area for 30-40 minutes and wash with lukewarm water.
d. Use it once a day.

Frequently asked questions

Q. What are some of the other uses of Amla?

scientific
Modern Science View
Amla is used in shampoos and in the dyeing industry. It is used in sauces, candy, dried chips, pickle, jellies and powder. Amla extract is used in ink and the wood is used in firework.

Q. How to store Amla fruit?

scientific
Modern Science View
Amla fruit is seasonal and not available throughout the year. Thus, it can be frozen or dried and used as and when required.

Q. How many Amla should be eaten in a day?

scientific
Modern Science View
It is usually recommended to eat about 1-2 Amla per day or you can take as per your taste as well. It can be either eaten raw or in the form of juice. However, it is generally advisable to consult a physician before using Amla for medicinal purposes.

Q. Can we eat raw Amla?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, we can eat raw Amla. It can also be consumed in the form of juice or paste as it is packed with various nutrients such as Vitamin C ,iron and calcium.

Q. Is Amla good for heart?

scientific
Modern Science View
The antioxidant property of Amla helps to fight against the free radicals and inhibit the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. This reduces plaque formation in the blood vessels and minimizes the risk of blockage and heart attacks[4].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla has cardioprotective property. It increases the Pachak Agni (digestive fire) and controls the level of high cholesterol which helps maintain a healthy heart.

Q. Does Amla have a role in managing neurological disorders?

scientific
Modern Science View
Amla can be used for the management of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease due to its anti-cholinesterase activity. Amla also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory property. It fights against free radicals and inhibits the inflammatory mediators to reduce brain damage and improve cognitive function.

Q. Does Amla have hepatoprotective property?

scientific
Modern Science View
The constituents in Amla shows antioxidant property and fights against the free radicals to prevent the damage of liver cells. Amla also helps reduce inflammation of the liver by lowering the level of inflammatory mediators and liver enzymes[4].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla helps in the proper functioning of liver by increasing the Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Amla also helps prevent degeneration of liver cells due to its Rasayana property. It also stimulates the liver to eliminate toxins from the body.

Q. Does Amla have a role in managing gastrointestinal problems?

scientific
Modern Science View
Amla helps to reduce the damage of stomach lining by increasing mucin that protects the gastrointestinal tract from acid attack, harmful micro-organisms and physical trauma. Gallic acid in Amla protects the mucosal lining of the stomach and helps in ulcer healing. Thus, Amla is known to have anti-secretory and anti-ulcer action and works as a gastroprotective agent[4].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla helps to reduce gastrointestinal problems by improving the Pachak Agni (digestion fire). It also helps in easy expulsion of stool due to its Rechana (mild laxative) property.

Q. Does Amla have a role in bone disorders?

scientific
Modern Science View
Bone disorders like osteoporosis are due to increased activity of osteoclast cells that erode the bone to release its mineral content. Amla is known to have anti-osteoclastic and anti-resorptive activity and helps control the loss of mineral content from the bones. In the case of arthritis, Amla is known to ease movement by protecting the cartilage cushion between the joints[4].

Q. Can we eat Amla on an empty stomach?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Amla can be eaten on an empty stomach. It has powerful antioxidant properties, is rich in Vitamin C and fibre and has high moisture content. This helps in the detoxification of the liver and kidneys and helps relieve constipation[9][10].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Amla can be taken on an empty stomach due to its Sita (cool) and Pitta balancing properties. It is effective in getting rid of acidity when taken on an empty stomach.

Q. Can we eat Amla raw?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Amla can be eaten raw as a whole fruit, in juice form or powder form as it is the highest source of vitamin C and is very beneficial for the health[11].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Amla can be taken as a raw fruit. It is Kashaya (astringent) in flavour so we can take it with salt to taste better.

Q. Is Amla Beneficial for treatment of jaundice?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Amla might help in reducing the symptoms of Jaundice like extreme constipation, weakness etc by removing toxins from the liver and kidneys due to its antioxidant properties[9].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Jaundice occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta dosha which leads to poor or weak liver functions. Amla helps to improve liver function due to its Pitta balancing and Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties.

Q. How can I eat Amla for weight loss?

scientific
Modern Science View
Amla can be administered orally as a whole fruit, juice or in powder form as it controls body weight and prevents hunger due to its high fibre and moisture content. Also, Amla being an antioxidant improves metabolism which is essential for weight loss[9].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Weight gain or obesity is a condition of accumulation of excessive fat or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) inside the body. Amla improves metabolism due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties that help to reduce the Ama. This helps in controlling weight.

Q. How can I use gooseberries or Amla to prevent the formation of gall bladder stones?

scientific
Modern Science View
Amla can be administered orally as a whole fruit, juice or in powder form. It is rich in vitamin C that helps remove toxins and manage cholesterol, both of which are the main causes of stone formation[9].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Gallbladder stones are formed due to an imbalance of Pitta dosha. Amla can be consumed in the form of fruit or juice to prevent gall bladder stones, due to its Pitta balancing property.

Q. Can we eat ashwagandha, Brahmi and Amla together?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Ashwagandha, Brahmi and Amla can be taken together as all three are Rasayana (rejuvenating) in nature. There is no harm in taking all these three together if you have a good digestive system. If your digestion is normal, then the mixture of these three can work in a very positive way inside your body.

Q. How is Amla good for the skin?

scientific
Modern Science View
Amla improves skin elasticity and helps to get rid of dead skin by forming new cells. It also protects the skin and prevents damage by UV rays due to its strong antioxidant properties. Thus, Amla can be used in anti-aging, sunscreen and other skin care products[4].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla is good for skin due to its Ropan (healing) and Rasayan properties. It is also good for controlling acne and inflammation due to its Pitta pacifying nature. Amla also helps control excessive oil on the skin due to its Kashaya (astringent) effects.

Q. What does Amla do to your hair?

scientific
Modern Science View
Application of Amla on the hair is useful for reducing hair fall and promote hair growth. Due to its antioxidant property, Amla fights against the free radicals and prevents premature or early greying of hair. All these benefits make Amla a potent hair tonic[1][7][8].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Amla is the most preferred ingredient for maintaining hair health due to its Ropan (healing) and Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties. It strengthens hair follicles and prevent hair damage. Amla also has Kashaya (astringent) and Sita (cold) nature which stimulates hair growth and provides relief to dry and itchy scalp by reducing dandruff.
Tips:
1. Take 5-6 Amla.
2. Remove the seed and cut it into small pieces.
3. Now take 1 cup of coconut oil.
4. Add the Amla pieces to it.
5. Heat this mixture till the Amla does not turn black.
6. Switch off the gas and let the mixture cool.
7. Strain this mixture and store it in a bottle.
8. Apply this on your scalp and hair twice a week to curb hair fall and premature greying of hair.

Q. Does Amla help in wound healing?

scientific
Modern Science View
Topical application of Amla juice accelerates wound healing and helps in preventing infection of the wound. Amla also reduces pain by blocking the inflammatory mediators in the body[5].

References

  1. HK Bakhru.Foods that Heal, The Natural Way to Good Health.1990. Orient Paperbacks.
  2. Jain A, Garg N.Therapeutic and medicinal uses of Amalaki: A review.World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research.2017;6(2):512-524.
  3. WebMD.Indian-gooseberry:Uses, Side effects, Interactions, Dosage [Internet]. Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
  4. Variya BC, Bakrania AK, Patel SS. Emblica officinalis (Amla): A review for its phytochemistry, ethnomedicinal uses and medicinal potentials with respect to molecular mechanisms.Pharmacological Research.2016;111:180-200.
  5. Dasaroju S, Gottumukala KM.Current trends in the research of Emblica officinalis (Amla): A pharmacological perspective.Int. J. Pharm. Sci. Rev. Res.2014;24(2):150-159.
  6. Pradhan SL, Pradhan PS.Ayurvedic medicine and anaesthesia.Indian J Anaesth.2011;55(4):334–339.
  7. Patel S, Sharma V, Chauhan NS, et al.Hair growth: Focus on herbal therapeutic agent.Current Drug Discovery Technologies.2015;12(1).
  8. Luanpitpong S, Nimmannit U, Pongrakhananon V, et al. Emblica (Phyllanthus emblica Linn.) fruit extract promotes proliferation in dermal papilla cell of human hair follicle.Res J Med Plant.2011;5:95-100.
  9. Jain R, Pandey R, Mahant RN et al.A review on medicinal importance of Emblica Officinalis.Int J Pharm Sci Res.2015;6(1):72-84. 10.13040/IJPSR.0975-8232.6 (1).72-84
  10. Scartezzini P, Antognoni F, Raggi MA et al.Vitamin C content and antioxidant activity of the fruit and of the Ayurvedic preparation of Emblica officinalis Gaertn. J Ethnopharmacol.2006;104(1-2):113-118.
  11. Jain SK, Khurdiya DS.Vitamin C enrichment of fruit juice based ready-to-serve beverages through blending of Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) juice.Plant Foods Hum. Nutr.2004;59(2):63-66.
  12. Kulkarni KV, Ghurghure SM. Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis): Complete pharmacognosy review. International journal of chemistry studies. 2018;2(2):05-11.External Link
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.

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