Amla is a tree native to Asia that is also referred to as Indian gooseberry. The tree’s small green fruits have a distinct flavour that has been characterised as sour, bitter, and astringent.

Also Read | Calcium deficiency: Required intake, early signs and how to prevent

Amla isn’t just a favourite among Ayurvedic practitioners. It’s used in a variety of western medicine items to strengthen our bodies’ immunity-boosting abilities.

It is found in almost every traditional Indian kitchen in some form or another: whole fruit, pickled amla, dried and powdered amla, and so on.

Here are 6 of the health benefits of consuming amla:

Source of Vitamin C

Vitamin C, a water-soluble vitamin that functions as an antioxidant, is abundant in amla juice.

Amla berries’ high vitamin C content aids in the absorption of other minerals, thus they may be beneficial if you take iron or other mineral supplements.

Also Read | How storytelling makes us human, reduces pain in hospitalised children

Vitamin C can improve immune cell activity in addition to protecting cells from oxidative damage.

Enhances liver health

Although there isn’t much evidence in humans, several promising animal studies show that amla juice may aid with liver function.

Amla juice is also high in antioxidants and has strong anti-inflammatory qualities, both of which may be good for liver function.

Supports healthy digestion

Remarkably, recent studies suggest that amla juice may have a number of digestive health advantages.

Also Read | Fat or slim, fatty heart can impact anyone. Here’s how to avoid it

Amla berries are high in fibre, which helps the body to maintain bowel motions. Amla, according to users, has helped them regulate chronic diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Aids immune function

Some people say that amla can help with coughs, colds, and intestinal issues. Many people drink amla juice first thing in the morning, blended with a little lemon juice and honey to make it taste better.

To effectively control diabetes, Ayurvedic medicines including a blend of amla juice, Jamun (Indian blackberry), and karela juice (bitter gourd) are available.

Also Read | Bottoms up! Try these five detox water recipes to keep diabetes under check

Promotes heart health

The prevention of Hyperglycemia, heart problems, diabetic nephropathy, neuropathy, cataractogenesis, and protein wasting have all been linked to amla. However, clinical trial evidence involving human patients on this issue is sparse and preliminary, according to the research report.

Amla extract may lower cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood pressure levels, as well as inflammation, which are all risk factors for heart disease.

Fosters hair growth

By inhibiting the activity of a certain enzyme and stimulating the proliferation of particular hair follicle cells, amla extract may be able to help prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.

Also Read | Here’s a 10-minute morning workout routine to start your day

Amla juice, when combined with aloe vera juice, is supposed to decrease cholesterol and prevent hair loss.

It may also be used as a natural dye. Amla can be added to henna that has been mixed with water in a black iron kadhai. This is a scalp and hair treatment that strengthens the roots of the strands.