What are the Benefits of Indian Gooseberry (Amla)?

The Indian gooseberry, commonly known as amla, is an excellent source of vitamin C. Indian gooseberry is a very important ingredient used in Ayurveda treatments because of its well-known remedies for many ailments.

Indian gooseberry improves absorption of food, neutralizes stomach acidity, is good for liver fortification, nourishes the brain and mental functioning, strengthens lungs, eliminates free radicals, improves skin health, promotes healthier hair, acts as a body coolant, detoxifier, increases vitality, strengthens eyes and also improves muscle tone.

Health problems caused by oxidative damage are prevented and repaired by antioxidants present in Indian gooseberry. Vitamin C is a good antioxidant agent and this makes gooseberries a powerful tool against a variety of conditions, including various types of cancer.

It also contains many minerals and vitamins like iron, phosphorus, calcium, carotene, and vitamin B complex. The fruit is also known for its antioxidant properties. Let us look at some more Indian Gooseberry benefits and advantages in detail.

Table of Contents:

Indian Gooseberry Benefits

Indian Gooseberry Benefits & Advantages:

1. Improves Immunity:

Being rich in vitamin C and polyphenols, amla is a great source of antioxidants. Research shows that its high content of tannins, when combined with polyphenols gives the fruit a unique free radical scavenging property. This helps reduce the damage caused by free radicals in the body and hence improves the body’s ability to fight diseases.

2. Heart Health:

Amla is known to reduce cholesterol and keep heart diseases in check. Being a rich source of fiber and iron, it is very effective in controlling the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Oxidation of LDL releases free radicals which are known to cause coronary artery disease. It also prevents atherosclerosis (accumulation of plaque in the arteries) thereby protecting people from heart disease.

3. Controls Diabetes:

The fruit has high levels of polyphenol properties that protect the body from oxidative damage. The compound is also effective in preventing insulin resistance caused due to a high fructose diet.

4. Slows Down Ageing:

Being rich in vitamin A, amla produces collagen, a compound that keeps the skin young and elastic. When consumed on an empty stomach, it has properties that slow down the degradation of collagen and helps the body produce more of it.

5. Cancer Protection:

Packed with antioxidant properties, amla has the potential to keep cancer at bay by helping the body fight the harmful effects of chemicals that are carcinogenic. It also inhibits the further growth of cancer-affected cells. Amla extract can also reduce the harmful effects of radiation and chemotherapy.

6. Gastric Problems:

The fibers, polyphenol, and water content of amla combined with its anti-inflammatory properties make it a great remedy for an upset stomach. Consuming one teaspoon of amla juice on an empty stomach can take care of acidity and resolve a stomach upset.

7. Soothes The Throat:

Indian gooseberry juice when mixed with ginger provides instant relief from a sore throat and cough.

8. Liver Protection:

It prevents oxidative damage to the liver, hence protecting it from chemicals and alcohol.

9. Scurvy:

Amla is an extremely rich source of vitamin C and it is one of the best-known remedies for scurvy. Dry amla powder when mixed with an equal quantity of sugar can be taken in doses of one teaspoonful three times daily with milk.

10. Natural Cure for Anaemia:

The vitamin C present in amla is an essential ingredient that helps in the absorption of iron. The fruit in the form of supplements can be very beneficial to patients suffering from iron deficiency or anemia.

Amla Nutritional Value:

After Indian Gooseberry benefits let us look into the nutritional value. Indian gooseberries are well-known for their nutritional qualities.

It is rich in polyphenols & minerals and is regarded as one of the richest sources of vitamin C (200-900 mg per 100 grams of the edible portion).

Chemical Constitutes Percentage (%)
Carbohydrate 14.1
Protein 0.5
Fat 0.5
Fiber 3.7
Calcium 0.7
Phosphorous 0.05
Iron 0.2
Nicotinic acid 0.2 mg

Amla Uses

How to Have Indian Gooseberry?

It can be consumed directly as a fruit or in the form of powder, juice, and a dried form. Give below is a recipe for a refreshing Indian gooseberry drink so that you can enjoy the goodness of the fruit in some refreshing flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 40 chopped Indian gooseberries
  • 1 teaspoon gooseberry juice
  • ½ teaspoon star anise powder
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 4 teaspoon ice

Preparation:

  • Blend the amla juice, chopped amla, star anise powder, and some water till a smooth paste is formed.
  • Strain into a glass.
  • Add some honey to the mix and stir well.
  • Add ice to a glass and pour the drink over it.
  • Serve immediately.
SOURCE: B-Positive Health Magazine

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