Amala: Phyllanthus emblica: Amla Benefits, Uses And More

Amala, also known as “Gooseberry,” is packed with nutrients and is the richest natural source of vitamin C. It’s used for many health issues and can boost immunity with regular use. According to Ayurveda, Amala is considered one of the best tonics for rejuvenation (Rasayana). It’s said to brighten the skin, purify the blood, and improve eyesight. The medicinal properties of Amala are described as follows:

Amala is helpful for Pitta disorders and enhances stamina and the body’s defense against infections due to its properties of providing strength (Vrishya) and immunity (Rasayana). It balances Vata because of its sour taste, Pitta due to its sweet and cold nature, and Kapha because of its dryness and astringent properties.

Amala aids digestion and relieves acidity. It’s also beneficial for diabetics as it helps in controlling blood glucose levels. Additionally, it helps in preventing aging and premature greying of hair.

There are various ways to consume Amala. It can be taken as juice, murabba (a sweet preserve), chutney, candy, or even eaten raw. Its beneficial properties remain consistent across all these forms. Synonyms of Amala include Amala, Emblica officinalis, Indian gooseberry, Amalaka, Amrtaphala, Dhatriphala, Amalakhi, Aonla, Ambala, Nellikayi, Nellikka, Anvala, Anala, Aula, Nelli, Usirika, Amli, and Amalaj. Amala is sourced from plants.

What is Amla?

Amla, also called Gooseberries, comes from a flowering tree that shares its name. These small, round berries have a bright or yellow-green color. They have a very sour taste when eaten alone, but they can add a unique flavor to various recipes.

Historical records indicate that amla berries have been used in traditional remedies for over a thousand years. This suggests a long-standing recognition of their potential health benefits.

Adding amla to your diet might boost your overall health. The ancient use of amla in traditional remedies hints at its beneficial properties, making it a valuable addition to your nutritional routine.

How to Use Amala?

Here’s how you can use Amala in different forms:

1.         Amala Raw Fruit: You can eat 2-3 pieces of raw Amala fruit with a pinch of salt before meals to help with hyperacidity.

2.         Amala Juice: Take 3-4 teaspoons of Amala Juice, mix with the same amount of water, and drink it before meals once or twice a day. Avoid drinking it at night, especially in winter.

3.         Amala Churna (Powder): Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Amala churna and mix it with honey or water before lunch and dinner.

4.         Amala Capsule: Swallow 1-2 Amala capsules with water, twice a day, before or after meals.

5.         Amala Tablet: Swallow 1-2 Amala tablets with water, twice a day, before or after meals.

6.         Amala Candy: Eat 2-3 pieces of Amala candy before or after meals.

7.         Amala Murabba (Sweet Preserve):

1. Wash 20 pieces of Amala and prick them.
2. Boil them in 1-2 cups of water until soft.
3. Make a sugar syrup by boiling 2 cups of sugar in 2 cups of water until thick.
4. Add boiled Amala to the syrup and let it absorb for 1-2 hours. It’s called Amala Murabba, best eaten before lunch and dinner.

8.         Amala Chutney:

1. Take ½ cup of Amala.
2. Add 1 cup of chopped coriander, 2-4 green chilies, a pinch of hing (asafoetida), and salt to taste.
3. Have this chutney with meals.

9.         Amala-Carrot-Beetroot Juice:

1. Take 1-2 pieces of Amala, 2 carrots, and 1 beetroot, cut into small pieces.
2. Juice all ingredients together.
3. Strain the juice, add lemon juice and salt to taste.
4. Drink this juice after lunch for better digestion.

Nutrients of Amala

A half-cup serving of amla berries provides a range of nutrients essential for good health. This serving contains 33 calories, less than 1 gram of protein, and less than 1 gram of fat. It also includes 8 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of fiber, and no sugar.

Amla berries are packed with antioxidants. These antioxidants are vital because they help protect your body from chronic health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. By reducing oxidative stress in the body, antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and preventing illness.

In addition to their antioxidant properties, amla berries are a rich source of several important vitamins and minerals. They are particularly high in Vitamin C, which is essential for a strong immune system and healthy skin. They also contain significant amounts of Vitamin E and Vitamin A, both of which are important for maintaining good vision and overall cellular health. Furthermore, amla berries provide essential minerals like iron and calcium. Iron is necessary for healthy blood and preventing anemia, while calcium is crucial for strong bones and teeth.

Overall, amla berries are a nutrient-dense food that offers numerous health benefits, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet

Benefits of Amala

Phyllanthus emblica, also known as Indian gooseberry, offers various benefits for health and wellness. It has been traditionally used in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties.

Digestive Health:

 Phyllanthus emblica helps with indigestion by improving digestion fire, making it easier to digest food and expel stool. Its mild laxative property aids in smooth bowel movements, relieving constipation.

Weight Management:

 For obesity, Phyllanthus emblica aids in weight control by enhancing metabolism and acting as an appetizer and digestive agent, which may help in weight management.

Cholesterol Regulation:

Phyllanthus emblica may help in controlling high cholesterol levels. It works by improving metabolism and digestion, thus aiding in reducing cholesterol levels in the body.

Dysentery Management:

In cases of dysentery, Phyllanthus emblica’s astringent property helps in managing bloody diarrhea by controlling bleeding and reducing gastrointestinal muscle contractions.

Osteoarthritis Relief:

Phyllanthus emblica may alleviate pain and improve mobility in osteoarthritis by protecting joint cartilage. It balances aggravated Vata, reducing pain and swelling in joints.

Joint Pain Alleviation:

For joint pain, Phyllanthus emblica’s Vata balancing property helps in controlling pain and swelling, improving mobility.

Pancreatitis Support: Though there’s no definite cure for pancreatitis, Phyllanthus emblica shows protective actions by fighting against free radicals and reducing inflammation.

Cancer Prevention:

Phyllanthus emblica contains Vitamin C, which boosts the activity of natural killer cells, aiding in the breakdown of cancerous cells. It also inhibits the growth of cancer cells to some extent.

Diabetes Management:

Phyllanthus emblica helps improve glucose metabolism, lowering blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of diabetic complications by fighting free radicals and improving blood vessel function.

Diarrhea Control:

In diarrhea, Phyllanthus emblica’s properties help by reducing gastrointestinal muscle contractions, providing relief from abdominal pain and cramping.

Diabetes Control:

Phyllanthus emblica’s fiber helps slow down sugar absorption, reducing blood sugar spikes, and improves lipid counts in type 2 diabetes.

Better Digestion:

Phyllanthus emblica fiber regulates bowel movements and aids in nutrient absorption, promoting better digestion.

Healthier Eyes:

Phyllanthus emblica’s vitamin A improves vision and may lower the risk of eye diseases. Its vitamin C content fights bacteria, protecting against infections.

Immunity Boost:

Phyllanthus emblica is rich in vitamin C and other compounds that boost immunity, fighting against bacteria and inflammation.

Memory and Brain Health:

Phyllanthus emblica’s antioxidants support brain health by protecting against cell damage, while vitamin C aids in neurotransmitter production, potentially improving brain function.

Precaution of Using Amala

When using Amala, there are important precautions to keep in mind to ensure safety. Experts advise caution based on both modern scientific views and Ayurvedic principles.

Firstly, in terms of bleeding disorders, Amala may increase the risk of bleeding or bruising. It’s recommended to use Amala cautiously if you have such disorders. Also, if you have surgery scheduled, it’s advised to stop Amala intake at least two weeks before the surgery to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding.

According to Ayurveda, it’s important to take Amala juice in recommended doses and duration under a doctor’s guidance. Taking too much Amala might cause dryness in the skin. Additionally, Amala should be avoided if there’s excessive Ama in the body (toxic remains due to poor digestion) or in cases of aggravated Kapha problems like coughing. Drinking Amala juice at night should also be avoided due to its cold potency and astringent taste.

For breastfeeding mothers, the modern scientific view suggests avoiding medicinal use of Amala due to insufficient evidence regarding its safety during breastfeeding.

In patients with diabetes, Amala may lower blood glucose levels. Therefore, it’s important to monitor blood glucose regularly if you’re taking Amala along with anti-diabetic drugs to avoid hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.

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Regarding pregnancy, both modern science and Ayurveda advise against medicinal use of Amala due to insufficient scientific evidence regarding its safety during pregnancy.

Chemical Composition

Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is incredibly rich in vitamin C, containing about 20 times more than orange juice. For every 100 grams of the fruit you eat, you get between 470 to 680 milligrams of vitamin C. This makes Amla an excellent source of this essential nutrient, which is vital for maintaining a healthy immune system and overall well-being.

Apart from vitamin C, Amla is packed with other important nutrients. The fruit is made up of water, proteins, fats, minerals, fibers, and carbohydrates. It includes a variety of minerals and vitamins such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, and carotene. Additionally, it contains vitamins like thiamine and riboflavin. All these nutrients work together to support various bodily functions, making Amla a highly nutritious fruit.

Moreover, recent research has shown that Amla has strong antioxidant properties. This is due to the presence of small molecular weight tannoid complexes in the fruit. These compounds help in fighting oxidative stress in the body, which can lead to numerous health benefits, such as reduced inflammation and a lower risk of chronic diseases. Thus, consuming Amla can be very beneficial for your health due to its rich nutrient profile and powerful antioxidants.

Summarizing the Benefits of Amala

Phyllanthus emblica, commonly known as Amla or Indian gooseberry, is a potent superfood with numerous health benefits. Here are 30 health benefits of Amla:

1.         Boosts Immunity: High vitamin C content strengthens the immune system, helping to ward off infections.

2.         Improves Digestion: Promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation due to its high fiber content.

3.         Enhances Liver Health: Helps detoxify the liver and improve its function.

4.         Supports Heart Health: Reduces cholesterol levels and improves heart health by lowering blood pressure.

5.         Regulates Blood Sugar: Helps in managing blood sugar levels, beneficial for diabetics.

6.         Promotes Healthy Skin: Enhances skin health by reducing wrinkles and fine lines due to its antioxidant properties.

7.         Stimulates Hair Growth: Nourishes hair, reduces hair fall, and prevents premature graying.

8.         Aids in Weight Loss: Boosts metabolism, aiding in weight management.

9.         Improves Vision: Enhances eyesight and prevents age-related macular degeneration.

10.       Reduces Inflammation: Contains anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the body.

11.       Enhances Brain Function: Improves memory and cognitive functions due to its antioxidant properties.

12.       Supports Kidney Health: Prevents kidney stones and promotes kidney health.

13.       Promotes Oral Health: Strengthens teeth and gums, and reduces bad breath.

14.       Reduces Risk of Cancer: Contains compounds that help in reducing the risk of cancer.

15.       Improves Respiratory Health: Beneficial for respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis.

16.       Promotes Healthy Bones: Enhances bone density and strength.

17.       Helps in Detoxification: Aids in the detoxification process of the body.

18.       Improves Reproductive Health: Enhances reproductive health in both men and women.

19.       Boosts Energy Levels: Increases energy levels and reduces fatigue.

20.       Supports Mental Health: Reduces stress and anxiety, promoting mental well-being.

21.       Improves Metabolism: Enhances metabolic rate and overall digestive health.

22.       Prevents Aging: Delays the aging process due to its rich antioxidant content.

23.       Enhances Skin Glow: Improves skin complexion and imparts a natural glow.

24.       Promotes Healthy Urinary Tract: Prevents urinary tract infections and maintains urinary health.

25.       Reduces Menstrual Discomfort: Alleviates menstrual cramps and discomfort.

26.       Strengthens Bones and Joints: Reduces joint pain and improves mobility.

27.       Improves Appetite: Stimulates appetite and promotes healthy eating habits.

28.       Boosts Stamina: Enhances physical stamina and endurance.

29.       Promotes Wound Healing: Accelerates the healing process of wounds and cuts.

30.       Supports Overall Well-being: Improves overall health and vitality due to its comprehensive nutrient profile.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Amla, or Phyllanthus emblica, stands out as a remarkable superfood with a plethora of health benefits and versatile uses. Rich in vitamin C and an array of essential nutrients, Amla significantly boosts immunity, enhances digestion, and promotes heart and liver health. Its potent antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress, reducing inflammation and supporting overall wellness.

The benefits of Amla extend to improving skin and hair health, regulating blood sugar levels, and aiding in weight management. Additionally, it supports eye health, strengthens bones, and promotes mental well-being. Whether consumed fresh, in juice form, or as a supplement, Amla’s diverse applications make it a valuable addition to any diet.

With its comprehensive nutrient profile and medicinal properties, Amla is not only a cornerstone of traditional medicine but also a modern superfood that contributes to a healthier and more vibrant life. Incorporating Amla into your daily routine can lead to enhanced vitality, better health, and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Question on Amala

Q: What are some other uses of Phyllanthus emblica?

Phyllanthus emblica has various uses beyond consumption. It is used in shampoos and in dyeing. Also, it’s found in sauces, candy, dried chips, pickle, jellies, and powder. Phyllanthus emblica extract is even used in ink, and the wood of the Phyllanthus emblica tree is utilized in fireworks.

Q: How should Phyllanthus emblica fruit be stored?

Phyllanthus emblica fruit is seasonal and not available all year round. To preserve it, you can freeze it or dry it, so it can be used whenever needed.

Q: How many Phyllanthus emblica fruits should be eaten in a day?

It’s generally recommended to eat about 1-2 Phyllanthus emblica fruits per day, or you can eat as many as you like according to your taste. Phyllanthus emblica can be eaten raw or in the form of juice. However, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor before using Phyllanthus emblica for medicinal purposes.

Q: Can we eat raw Phyllanthus emblica?

 Yes, raw Phyllanthus emblica can be eaten. It’s also beneficial to consume it as juice or paste since its rich in various nutrients such as Vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

 Reference

https://easyayurveds.com/ayurvedic-medicine-for-diarrhea/