• 3 years ago
Health Benefits of Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

Cultivated throughout India and nearby countries, amla has gained a following throughout the world as a "superfruit." It's no surprise — a 100-gram serving of fresh amla berries contains as much vitamin C as 20 oranges.

Amla, also known as Indian gooseberries, grows on a flowering tree of the same name. The small berries are round and bright or yellow-green. Though they are quite sour on their own, their flavor can enhance recipes they’re added to.

While we can't be entirely sure when Ayurvedic healers started using amla berry, historical records tell us they’ve been used in remedies for at least 1,000 years.

Incorporating this ancient superfruit into your diet may improve your overall health.
The antioxidants and vitamins found in amla berries offer several health benefits. High concentrations of vitamin C in amla helps the body recover from illness. Amla berries also include several flavonols, chemicals that have been linked to benefits like improved memory.

Indian gooseberry is known by two scientific names — Phyllanthus emblica and Emblica officinalis. It’s also commonly called amla.

This small tree has yellow-green flowers that blossom into round, edible fruits of the same color.

Here are some other health benefits of amla:
1. Diabetes Control: The soluble fiber in amla berries dissolves quickly in the body, which helps to slow the rate your body absorbs sugar. This can help reduce blood sugar spikes. Amla berries also have a positive effect on blood glucose and lipid counts in people with type 2 diabetes.

2. Better Digestion: The fiber in amla berries helps the body regulate bowel movements and may help to relieve symptoms from conditions like irritable bowel syndrome. High levels of vitamin C in Amla berries helps your body absorb other nutrients.

3. Healthier Eyes: Amla berries are rich in vitamin A, which is key to improving eye health. Vitamin A not only improves vision, but it also may lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Amla's vitamin C content aids in eye health by fighting bacteria, which can help to protect your eyes from conjunctivitis (pink eye) and other infections.

4. Immunity: One 100g serving of amla berries (about a half cup) provides 300mg of vitamin C—more than twice the daily recommended value for adults. You'll also find notable amounts of polyphenols, alkaloids, and flavonoids. Amla has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

5. Weight loss: This is the least talked-about yet most exciting benefit of amla. A protein present in amla helps prevent cravings.

6. Improves Skin: Amla is the best anti-aging fruit. Drinking amla juice with honey every morning can give you blemish-free, healthy and glowing skin.