Amla (Emblica Officinalis)
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Botanical name: (Emblica officinalis) Also Known As: Amla, amala, aamla, Indian gooseberry, amritphala (the fruit of heaven, nectar of heaven) or amalaki. Amla fruit is found wild all over the sub-Himalayan forests. It is sacred to Hindus and is the fruit offered to Lord Shiva; one of the main Deities of Hinduism. Amla along with Bel is also considered to be an emblem of fertility, being the female aspect of the Bel in Ayurveda. All parts of this tree have medicinal qualities. Both the Amla and Bel trees are also believed to promote fearlessness due to its association with Lord Shiva, who is worshipped to overcome fear in face of death or disease. Amalaki is referred to in ancient text as the best medicine to prevent aging, partially becuase it's a strong rejuvenative which is the richest natural source ofantioxydant vitamin C. Although only one inch in diameter, the Amalaki fruit has the same antiscorbutic value as two oranges. Amalaki is used in Ayurveda as an aphrodisiac, antipyretic, antidiabetic, and cerebral tonic. It raises the total protein level and increases the body weight due to positive nitrogen balance. It has been found to have an anabolic effect as well. Amla is highly nutritious and is an important dietary source of Vitamin C, minerals and amino acids. The edible fruit tissue contains protein concentration 3-fold and ascorbic acid concentration 160-fold compared to that of the apple. The fruit also contains considerably higher concentration of most minerals and amino acids than apples. Amla fruit ash contains chromium, zinc, and copper. Presence of chromium is of therapeutic value in diabetes. Ayurveda's most popular fruit is also one of its most effective. Literally every part of the Amla tree is used in Ayurveda. Dried fruit is sour and astringent. Flowers are cooling and aperients. Bark is astringent. The herb is also aphrodisiac, hemostatic, nutritive tonic, rejuvenator. Amla increases red blood cell count. It is one of the highest natural sources of Vitamin C (3,000 mg per fruit). Amla fruit paste is a major ingredient of Chavyanprash, a popular Ayurvedic tonic. The root bark is astringent and is useful in stomach ulcers. The bark is useful in gonorrhea, jaundice and diarrhea. The leaves are useful in curing conjunctivitis, inflammation, indigestion, diarrhea and dysentery. The fruits are sour, astringent, bitter, sweet, cooling, digestive, laxative, diuretic and tonic. Amla fruit aids digestion, cures flatulence, helps correct body functions and metabolism. In treatment of illness, Amla is widely used in Ayurveda. Found in medicines for diabetes, cough, asthma, bronchitis, headaches, colic, hyperacidity, peptic ulcers, skin diseases, inflammations, anemia, jaundice, dysentery, diarrhea, cardiac disorders, and intermittent fevers. It is also very good tonic for the hair and is used to correct grayness of hair and finds extensive usage in hair oils. Note: These statements have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration, and this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. We do not recommend internal use of supplements or herbs without prior consultation with your doctor or herbalist. |
