Indian gooseberry, also known as amla, is one of the most notable ingredients in ancient Ayurvedic treatments due to its medicinal, therapeutic, and immune-modulatory properties. The small green, pulpy fruit is loaded with vitamin C, iron, carotene, vitamin B, protein, calcium, phosphorus, and fibre, which makes it an Ayurvedic superfood. The divine medicine contains five unique tastes – sour, astringent, sweet, bitter, and pungent. Amla can be taken in the form of churna, juice, murabba, chutney, and candy, or even eaten raw. Due to outstanding rejuvenating and holistic properties of the succulent fruit, amla works to pacify all the three doshas of the body – vata, pitta and kapha. Besides, amla can be used to treat various health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, PCOS, and skin conditions. Being the nutrient powerhouse, the Indian gooseberry is incorporated in different Ayurvedic formulations.
Here are some of the ways amla is used as a quintessential ingredient inAyurvedic products:
CHYAWANPRASH
An Ayurvedic health supplement composed of a super-concentrated blend of nutrient-rich herbs and minerals, Chyawanprash helps to preserve strength, stamina, and vitality. Amla is used as one of the prime ingredients for preparing Chyawanprash due to its high antioxidant content. Chyawanprash is considered a powerful immunity booster that stimulates the production of red blood cells (RBCs), cleanses liver, and support muscle growth.
ASHOKARISHTA
An Ayurvedic decoction made from amla, and other medicinal herbs such as musta, dhataki, haitaki, mago seeds, etc., is an excellent remedy for women dealing with reproductive health issues. Balancing the hormonal levels in the body, the ayurvedic tonic treats menstrual cramps, pelvic inflammatory diseases, prevents infertility issues, and boosts stamina.
TRIPHALA
Triphala is a combination of three medicinal herbs namely, amla, haitaki and bhibhitaki. It is a widely acknowledged Ayurvedic medicine for boosting immunity, aids weight loss, manages indigestion, and flushes out toxins from the body.
KANCHANAR GUGGULU
Kanchanar Guggulu is an Ayurvedic solution made from mixing amla along with the bark of Kanchanar tree, black pepper, bhibhitaki, cinnamon, ginger, etc. Consumption of Kanchanar Guggulu in moderate amount can work wonders to burn the belly fat, regulate thyroid functioning and purify the blood.
The writer is an Ayurvedic Expert and CEO of Medy365.com