Indian Gooseberry: An Ayurvedic Superfruit  

Indian Gooseberry, also known as Amla, is abundant in vitamin-C, and contains B-vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and beta carotene.  A powerful antioxidant, Amla helps prevent and repair damage caused to cells by free radicals. Two other compounds in Amla, flavones and anthocyanins are noted for their beneficial health effects against cancer, aging, inflammation, and neurological diseases.

In Ayurvedic Medicine, both dried and fresh Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis) fruits are used alone or in combination with other plants to support health and treat a variety of medical conditions. Some of the many health benefits or effects include:

• Fortifies the liver and helps flush toxins from the body
• Balances stomach acid
• Helps regulate blood sugar
• Reduces inflammation
• Healing ulcers
• Supports heart health
• Manages fever, coughs, bronchitis or asthma

Gooseberry is of interest to researchers and health practitioners for its role in managing diabetes, prevention and treatment of certain cancers and heart disease, and its protective effect on brain health. In fact, several researchers revealed that various extracts and herbal formulations of Amla have potential therapeutic benefits and the results are similar to standard drugs. It’s important to consult with your health practitioner to determine the right amount of an Amla supplement.

Gooseberry flavor ranges from tart and sweet to moderately sour. This unusual, translucent fruit is found in shades of yellow, green, red, or black. The berries may be perfectly round or oval and elongated and contain abundant, tiny edible seeds. Look for Indian Gooseberry in international grocery stores and enjoy the fruit as part of a healthy diet.

 

Resources

Nutrition Data & You. “Gooseberries Nutrition Facts.”

Dasaroju, S. & Gottumukkala, KM. “Current Trends in the Research of Emblica officinalis (Amla): A Pharmacological Perspective.” Int. J. Pharm. Sci. Rev. Res. (Jan – Feb 2014) 24(2), no.25, 150-159 . Accessed on January 31, 2015.

Da Silva Pinto, M. et al., “Evaluation of red currants (ribes rubrum l.), black currants (ribes nigrum l.), red and green gooseberries (ribes uva-crispa) for potential management of type 2 diabetes and hypertension using in vitro models.” Jl Food Bioch (June 2010) 34:3, 639–660. First published online March 2010. DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-4514.2009.00290.x   

Baliga, MS & Dsouza, JJ. “Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn), a wonder berry in the treatment and prevention of cancer.” Euro Jl. Cancer Prev. (2011 May) 20(3), 225-39. doi: 10.1097/CEJ.0b013e32834473f4