Health Benefits of Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

Health Benefits of Amla (Indian Gooseberry) (Emblica officinalis) 

Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is a fruit tree native to India and the Middle East. 

Traditionally, amla has been used for thousands of years in ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments including diarrhea, jaundice, headaches and inflammation.  

Amla has several vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, vitamin A, folic acid, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, carotene and magnesium. Amla has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. 

Amla has powerful antioxidants including anthocyanins, flavonoids and phenolic acids. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. 

Amla may promote skin health and anti-aging. Studies have shown that due to its antioxidants and vitamin C content it may slow down aging and prevent cellular damage. 

Amla may have anti-cancer properties. Test tube studies have shown that amla reduces the incident and number of tumors at various organ sites however more research is needed on humans.. 

Amla may promote heart health. Studies have shown that consuming amla reduced oxidative stress and lowered cholesterol levels. More studies showed that amla may also prevent arterial thrombosis which is when a blood clot forms in the artery. 

Amla may also help treat type 2 diabetes and lower blood sugar levels. 

Amla may also promote digestive health. Studies have shown that those who have GERD, with frequent heartburn that consumed amla daily for 4 weeks had a greater reduction in the frequency and severity of heartburn and vomiting compared to those who consumed a placebo. 

Amla may also promote vision health. Studies have shown that amla protects against age related macular degeneration (AMD). 

Amla may also promote brain health and boost your immunity.

Amla may also promote hair health. Amla oil is commonly used to promote hair growth and may reduce hair loss. 

As always consult with your physician. 

Sources:
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/emblica-officinalis 

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/indian-gooseberry

https://nutritionfacts.org/questions/can-indian-gooseberries-be-used-in-baked-goods-without-sacrificing-the-health-benefits/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phyllanthus_emblica

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3250870/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9137578/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/gooseberry-benefits

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-784/indian-gooseberry

https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-amla