Amla (Amalaki (Emblica officinalis))
Medically Reviewed by Ayuveda Clinical Team (Lead Medical Reviewer: Dr. Nitin Mohite, BAMS, MBA • Medical Logic Developer, UK • Clinical Profile • LinkedIn).
About
Emblica officinalis, commonly known as Amla or Indian gooseberry, is a significant herb in Ayurvedic medicine known for its antioxidant and rejuvenating properties.
Botanical name: Emblica officinalis. Also known as: Indian Gooseberry.
Properties
Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory activity, Antimicrobial activity, Cardioprotective activity, Hepatoprotective activity, Antidiabetic activity
Dosage
Fresh juice: 25-50 ml; Powder: 6-8 g
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Amla (Sour), Kashaya (Astringent), Madhura (Sweet), Tikta (Bitter), Katu (Pungent)
- Virya: ["Shita (Cooling)"]
- Vipaka: ["Madhura (Sweet)"]
Benefits
- Rasayana (Rejuvenative)
- Antioxidant
- Hrdya (Cardiotonic)
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
Traditional uses
- Hyperlipidemia
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Oxidative stress
- Inflammation
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Amla fruit juice: Standard preparation as per API.
- Amla powder: Standard preparation as per API.
- Amla murabba: Standard preparation as per API.
- Amla chutney: Standard preparation as per API.
- Amla pickle: Standard preparation as per API.
- Chyawanprash: Standard preparation as per API.
- Triphala: Standard preparation as per API.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Amla
- Caution during pregnancy and lactation
Side effects
- Monitor blood sugar levels closely if diabetic. Consult healthcare provider before use if managing specific health conditions. Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort in some individuals. May trigger acidity or worsen symptoms in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Interactions
- Anticoagulants
- Antiplatelet drugs
- Antidiabetes drugs
- Aspirin
- Clopidogrel
Active compounds
- Polyphenols
- Tannins
- Flavonoids
- Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)
Clinical evidence
Clinical trials suggest that Amla supplementation is generally safe and well-tolerated, with potential benefits for dyslipidemia, cardiovascular health, and diabetes management. Studies indicate Amla can improve lipid profiles, enhance blood fluidity, and reduce blood sugar levels, with no significant adverse events reported in most trials. Meta-analyses of up to 2 reviews and databases tracking 4+ RCTs show...
Ayurvedic karmas
- Rasayana (Rejuvenative)
- Antioxidant
- Hrdya (Cardiotonic)
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
Classical clinical indications
- Hyperlipidemia
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Oxidative stress
- Inflammation
Frequently asked questions
What is Amla?
Emblica officinalis, commonly known as Amla or Indian gooseberry, is a significant herb in Ayurvedic medicine known for its antioxidant and rejuvenating properties.
What are the benefits of Amla?
Rasayana (Rejuvenative). Antioxidant. Hrdya (Cardiotonic)
How is Amla used in Ayurveda?
Amla fruit juice: Standard preparation as per API.
Classical & Scientific References
- Classical monographs on Amla in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu and Dravyaguna Vijnana.
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
- Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana Ch. 4 — Dravyadi Sangrahaniya) & Sushruta Samhita.
Published by herbs.directory