Indian gooseberry, also called Amla (in Hindi) and Amalakhi (in Sanskrit), is a fruit which is native to India. It has lots of nutritional and medicinal properties. Indian gooseberry or Amalaki or Amla is the richest source of vitamin C. It is a good source of calcium, phosphorus, and iron. Besides, it also contains protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. Therefore, health benefits of amla are extensive.
Importance of Amla in Ayurveda:
Amla as a Rasayana in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, Amla serves as a powerful “Rasayana”. Its healing properties promote longevity and overall well-being. Due to its various health benefits of amla and its balancing effect on all three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha – it holds a significant place in Ayurveda.
The Five Elements
According to Ayurveda, the world is made up of five elements. These are:
- Akash (space)
- Jala (water)
- Prithvi (earth),
- Teja (fire), and
- Vayu (air).
Additionally, there are three humors. They are the result of the combination of each element. These are as follow:
Vata, Pitta, and Kapha
All these are responsible for a person’s physiological, mental, and emotional health. Firstly, Vata dosha (air and ether) is associated with bodily functions related to motion. It refers to bodily movement, including breathing, circulation, and impulses of nerves. Secondly, Pitta dosha (fire and water element) is associated with metabolism and transformation. It includes digestion, energy, production, and intellect. Lastly, Kapha dosha (earth and water element), is associated with structure, stability, and lubrication in the body. It has its link with strength and endurance.
How can AMLA help in balancing the Doshas?
AMLA proves to be beneficial with regards to Pitta disorder. As it is rich with Vrishya, (strength provider) and Rasayana (immunity) properties, it can improve stamina and also body’s defense mechanism. AMLA balances Vata (its dryness and instability) with its sweet, sour, and moistening qualities.
AMLA balances Pitta because of its madhur (sweet) and sita (cold) nature. AMLA’s cooling energy (virya) and its sweet, bitter, and astringent taste helps to reduce excess heat in the body.
AMLA also controls Kapha due to its Ruksha (dryness)- Kashya (astringent) properties. It helps to reduce excess mucus and congestion.
Top Health Benefits of Amla
- AMLA for Immunity: The health benefits of amla are largely due to its high vitamin C content. It strengthens the immune system. It can enhance the body’s defense mechanism. Moreover, it has great antioxidant properties. Therefore, it can detoxify the body and also neutralize the free radicals in the body.
- AMLA for Digestion: It plays a key role in the digestive health of an individual. It stimulates gastric juices and aids in nutrient absorption. Thus, it helps in improving digestion. Prebiotic properties available in AMLA support good gut bacteria.
- AMLA for Heart Health: In the matters of heart health, AMLA has its valuable role to play. It helps in lowering bad cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides in our body. On the other hand, it promotes good cholesterol, HDL. It regulates blood pressure and improves blood circulation in the human body. This is one of the many health benefits of amla.
- AMLA for Vision Health: According to Ayurveda, regular consumption of AMLA improves vision health. It can also prevent age-related disease of eyes. It provides antioxidant properties to the eyes and thus saves the eyes from UV rays, blue rays, and other harmful agents for the eyes.
- AMLA for Diabetic Control: AMLA is effective in balancing sugar levels. It improves insulin sensitivity and helps to reduce glucose spikes.
Some Other Health Benefits of Amla
- AMLA for Liver Health: The health benefits of amla includes its ability to support liver function. It can remove toxins from the liver. It can detoxify the whole body.
- AMLA for Improving Cognitive Function: AMLA can also improve memory and concentration and thus it improves cognitive function. It can reduce the stress level as well.
- AMLA for Hair Health: AMLA is rich in vitamin C and helps in the production of collagen. This Collagen is an essential protein for hair growth. Besides, AMLA has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers. It helps to strengthen hair fossils and reduce hair loss.
- AMLA for Skin Health: Regular consumption of AMLA purifies the blood and thereby it works the best for Skin Health. Regular intake of AMLA reduces wrinkles and most importantly it promotes collagen production in the body.
Conclusion:
Thus, with all these great health benefits of amla, it has always been a powerful super food. Including AMLA into daily routine, be it in the form of fresh AMLA or juice or supplement, one can enjoy longevity, vitality and overall wellness. This God gifted natural fruit can lead to a more healthier and balanced life.
