Amla (Gooseberry): Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

The Indian gooseberry is also known as amla. Its healing properties make its berries potent ingredients in medicinal formulations. Small yellowish-green berries are found on amla trees. It should be considered a superfood because of its many health benefits. There are several names for Amla in ancient Ayurveda, including sour, nurse, immortality, and mother.

This unique taste characteristic of Amla helps to keep better health of mind and body because it contains five various tastes: pungent, astringent, sweet, bitter, and sour. As a result, Amla is often referred to as the nectar of life in Sanskrit, which is why it is called Divyaushada.

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Chemical composition of Amla

Amla fruit is packed with vitamin C and carotene, which are important nutrients. It also contains various polyphenols like ellagic acid, gallic acid, apigenin, quercetin, luteolin, and corilagin. The approximate nutritional composition of Amla is provided in the table below.

Benefits of Amla for Health and Well-being

1. Amla and Blood Pressure: Amla is rich in antioxidants that can help combat free radicals produced during times of stress. It also contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. Including Amla in your diet, such as drinking Amla juice, can be effective in managing hypertension.

2. Amla and Diabetes: Amla is known to regulate diabetes by reducing oxidative stress. It is a good source of vitamin C, which acts as a powerful antioxidant. Amla’s fibers also help absorb excess sugar in the body, thereby regulating blood sugar levels.

3. Amla and Digestion: Amla berries are rich in dietary fibers that aid in regulating bowel movements and relieving irritable bowel syndrome. The high vitamin C content in Amla helps in the absorption of essential minerals.

4. Amla and Mental Health: Amla’s antioxidants help protect brain cells from damage and improve memory. It has shown effectiveness in treating patients with dementia.

5. Amla and Weight Loss: Amla can aid in weight loss by boosting metabolism and flushing out toxins from the body. Eating raw Amla, Amla candies, or using Amla powder with lukewarm water is recommended for weight loss.

6. Amla Oil and Hair Health: Amla oil promotes hair growth when used for regular hair massage. It stimulates hair follicles, improves hair length and volume, and prevents dandruff. Amla oil hydrates the scalp, prevents itching and scaling, and helps reduce premature greying of hair.

7. Healthier Eyes: Amla is a good source of vitamin A, which enhances eye health, reduces the risk of macular degeneration, and protects against conjunctivitis.

8. Amla and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Amla helps flush toxins from the body during the menstrual cycle and maintains hormonal balance, thereby improving fertility in women with PCOS.

10. Amla and Skin Health: Amla acts as a natural blood purifier, promoting healthy and glowing skin. It also helps fight skin allergies.
11. Recommended Dosages of Amla Products: The dosage of Amla products may vary based on their form and variant. It is advised to follow Ayurvedic guidelines and consult with an expert for proper dosage recommendations.

Additional Amla Products and Precautions:

Apart from the supplements mentioned earlier, you can find different Amla products in local supermarkets like Amla Murabba (preserved fruit), Amla-Carrot-Beetroot Juice, and Amla Chutney.

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Precautions to Keep in Mind when Taking Amla:

1. Some people may have allergies to Amla, which can increase the risk of bleeding. Exercise caution if you are allergic.
2. Diabetic patients should be cautious when consuming Amla, as it can significantly lower blood sugar levels.
3. Taking excessive amounts of Amla juice may cause dryness of the skin.
4. If you have a cough or aggravated Kapha problems, it is advisable to avoid Amla.
5. Amla is not recommended before or after surgery, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Is Amla beneficial for cancer?

Ans – Yes, Amla contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that enhances the activity of cancer-fighting cells. It can inhibit the growth and multiplication of cancer cells by scavenging free radicals in the body.

Can Amla help with diarrhea?

Ans – Yes, Amla has antispasmodic properties that can relax the muscles of the abdomen, providing relief from excessive contraction of the gastrointestinal tract that causes cramping and abdominal pain in diarrhea.

Can eating Amla regularly aid in weight loss?

Ans – Yes, Amla is available in various forms like whole fruit, juice, candy, and supplements. Its high fiber content can help manage hunger and control body weight. The antioxidants in Amla also improve metabolism, which is essential for weight loss.

Is Amla good for hair?

Ans – Yes, Amla oil is beneficial in reducing hair fall and promoting hair growth. It fights free radicals, which can cause premature hair graying, thanks to its antioxidant properties. With all these benefits, Amla can be a great hair tonic.