Among ancient civilizations, India is considered a rich fount of medicinal plants. Neem, aloe vera, tulsi, shatavari, ashwagandha, Indian gooseberry (amla) etc. are very popular medicinal plants cultivated in India. Here we will absorb some interesting and significant facts about amla and its benefits.

Commonly known as Indian gooseberry, the botanical name of amla is Phyllanthus emblica. Amla is a native to India. Apart from this it also grows in Sri Lanka, South East Asia and Uzbekistan. Uttar Pradesh is the state in India which produces the highest share of amla with the contribution of approximately 36 %.

There are various names by which amla is known to us:

Bhumi amla, dhatri, malacca tree, nillika etc.Amla, one of the vibrant ingredients of Triphla, is a traditional herbal Indian formulation and has a significant role in improving digestion by balancing stomach acids. It enhances liver function, safeguards immunity and even improves vitality of brain functioning.

What is an herb?

Any plant or a part of a plant that is appreciated for its medicinal properties, aromatic and savory qualities is termed as an herb.

Amla is a deciduous tree with fruits. The fruits are round and bright yellow or greenish.

Composition of amla:

Amla is highly enriched with vitamin C (ascorbic acid). A 100 gram of fresh amla contains much more vitamin C than 20 oranges and hence known as “Superfruit “. Besides it, amla has abundance of phytochemicals, most of them being polyphenols. To name a few — ellagic acid, gallic acid, chebulagic acid, chebulinic acid, apigenin etc.100 grams of amla approximately contain 50kcal energy, 0.5 gm protein, 13.7 gm carbs, 0.1 gm fat, 1.2 mg iron,50mg calcium,20 mg phosphorus 600 mg vitamin C. Moreover, it is decent source of vitamin E. Amla is an excellent treasure of antioxidants. It reduces the damage to our cells by capturing the free radicals.

Various ways to consume amla

Amla fruit can be used in its raw from per se. The taste of amla fruit is a blend of a dash of sourness, bitterness and a trace of sweetness.One can mention it as astringent.

Apart from consuming it as a fresh fruit, there are other alternatives like powdered form of amla and amla extract or amla juice. Amla powder is one of its convenient form to use. However, it is slight bitter, one can mix it with a dash of honey. Another way is to use it is its juice or extract. When piperine is added to amla juice, its bioavailability can be optimized by enhancing the absorption of nutrients.

SUPER BENEFITS OF AMLA

Amla has myriads of medicinal values. To mention a few of them:

• It is provided to be a blood sugar stabilizer and hence excellent for diabetics.
• Its regular consumption can be effective in controlling cholesterol levels.
• Bursting with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive and vasodilatory properties
• Beneficial for anemic patients due to high vitamin C content a which helps in better absorption of iron
• improves liver health
• When consumed and applied externally, it is helpful in restricting premature greying of hair, preserving hair luster, attaining glowing skin
• Studies show that amla possesses anticancer, chemoprotective effects too.

For detailed benefits, the following video is recommended; (WHY U MUST USE AMLA EVERYDAY)

Some simple yet health friendly recipes of amla and its benefits

1)Amla jam or amla murbba:

Its sweet tasting simple recipe to consume amla. The good point of this recipe is that one can preserve it for a few months without any spoilage in it. Amla pieces are doused in sugar and boiled. Saffron or cardamom can be optional additions to it. Boosts immunity and pampers the sweet tooth!!

2) Amla chutney:

Raw of boiled amla can be mixed with fennel seeds, roasted cumin and green chilies. Add some Indian spices or herbs and salt to taste, and here you get an amla chutney ready in a jiffy!!

SOME AMAZING CONCOCTIONS OF AMLA AND ITS BENEFITS:

 Amla + aloe vera:

Amla is an excellent source of vitamin C and contains several minerals, chemicals like polyphenols and tannins etc.
Aloe vera is proved to have numerous properties –like reducing dental plaque, wound healing, it can cure constipation, helps in preventing skin wrinkles. It has antioxidant and antibacterial properties.

 Amla + Giloy +Tulsi:

Giloy is known for its blood purifying properties and as treatment of skin disease. Tulsi is highly appreciated for its medicinal and therapeutic values in Ayurveda.

 Amla + Karela + jamun:

Karela and jamun help in stabilizing blood sugar levels therefore considered a brilliant supplement for diabetics.
Prevents infections and helps to release constipation. This concoction has been proved to reduce the risk of heart issues and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Its very essential to consume the health supplements in their purest form. Any adulteration in them will not give its optimal benefits and one may develop some allergies or reactions as well.

Thus, when you decide to buy a suitable and required health supplements, only purchase from the reliable and authentic sources.