Although Indian gooseberry has many advantages, consuming too much of it can be dangerous.
Phyllanthus emblica Linn or Emblica officinalis Gaertn., also referred to as Indian gooseberry or amla, is undoubtedly one of the most significant therapeutic plants in the Indian traditional medical system (Ayurveda). The fruit is the most crucial component of the plant, whereas other portions are used to treat a variety of illnesses.
- The fruit is used either by itself or in conjunction with other plants to treat a variety of illnesses, including the common cold and fever, as well as to act as a diuretic, laxative, liver tonic, refrigerant, anti-inflammatory, and hair tonic. It is believed to prevent peptic ulcers and dyspepsia.
- According to preclinical studies, amla exerts antipyretic, analgesic, antitussive, cardioprotective, gastroprotective, antianemia, antihypercholesterolemia, wound healing, antidiarrheal, antiatherosclerotic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and neuroprotective effects.
- Additionally, research has demonstrated that amla and some of its phytochemicals, including gallic acid, ellagic acid, pyrogallol, some norsesquiterpenoids, corilagin, and geraniin, elaeocarpusin, and prodelphinidins B1 and B2, have anticancer properties.
- Amla is said to have features including radio modulatory, chemo modulatory, chemopreventive effects, free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, and immunomodulatory activities. Some studies suggest that it may be effective in the treatment and prevention of cancer.
8 benefits and uses of Indian gooseberry
Eight benefits and uses of Indian gooseberry include:
- Effective source of antioxidant: Amla is a powerhouse of vitamin C and works wonders to strengthen the immune system.
- Additionally, it contains high levels of quercetin and kaempferol, as well as polyphenols, alkaloids, and vitamin A, which help boost the immune system.
- According to studies, amla boosts the production of white blood cells, which the body uses as a defense against allergies, infections, and toxins.
- Consuming gooseberries regularly protects the body from dangerous microorganisms and inflammation.
- May aid in hair care: Amla powder is a common ingredient in hair tonics because it can improve hair color and growth.
- Amla fortifies the roots, preserves color, and enhances gloss.
- Amla oil is particularly well-liked in India because studies have proven that it lowers the likelihood of hair loss and balding.
- Amla's carotene, iron, and antioxidant concentration may all contribute to this quality by preventing free radical damage to hormones and hair follicles.
- Possible antiaging agent: Amla's antioxidant properties can help the body produce fewer free radicals, which can lower the risk of hyperlipidemia associated with health issues.
- Free radicals, which are linked to aging symptoms including wrinkles and age spots, are scavenged by antioxidants and vitamin C. To get rid of age spots, use a face mask with amla powder.
- Improves digestion: Like other fruits, amla has a high fiber content. Fiber increases the stool volume and aids in the passage of food through the intestines, which maintains the regularity of bowel movements. Constipation risks can be decreased by doing this.
- Additionally, amla encourages the release of the stomach and digestive fluids, resulting in effective food digestion, optimal nutrient absorption, and a lighter, healthier feeling.
- According to a 2014 study that was published in the American Journal of Food Technology, amla and amla powder retained water. This quality can minimize constipation and shield you from a variety of gastrointestinal diseases.
- Control blood sugar: Chromium, which is present in gooseberries, is beneficial for people with diabetes. It increases the isolated population of cells that release insulin, lowering blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
- The cells use glucose as functional energy when blood sugar levels are decreased. As a result, your metabolism is more powerful and you have more energy, free from the harmful blood sugar swings experienced by people with diabetes.
- Additionally, chromium improves the effects of beta-blockers, which are prescribed for heart health, by lowering the body's levels of low-density lipoprotein (bad) cholesterol.
- According to a 2011 study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition on the effect of amla on blood sugar and lipid profile of people with type II diabetes, amla possesses anti-hyperglycemic, and cholesterol-lowering characteristics.
- Helpful for eye care: Vision may be improved by consuming gooseberry juice, which is high in vitamin A, along with some honey.
- It may lessen intraocular tension and help treat cataracts and nearsightedness. This is mostly because of the food's outstanding carotene concentration, which has long been recognized for its potent effect on disorders related to eyesight, especially those brought on by the damage caused by free radicals.
- Vision is improved by vitamin A and carotene, which reduce the incidence of macular degeneration and night blindness.
- Could have diuretic effects: According to an animal study that was published in the International Research Journal of Pharmacy, amla not only is a fruit that may be high in water content but also has a mild diuretic effect that might encourage urination.
- Our body will be able to get rid of extra toxins, water, salt, and uric acid through the process of urination.
- Diuretics are often prescribed for treating urinary tract infections and high blood pressure.
- Potentially beneficial for hypertension: According to studies, eating amla regularly lowers blood pressure and lessens the effect of cardiovascular disorders.
- The Indian gooseberry stands out for a high blood pressure diet because of its wealth of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, particularly potassium. Potassium works wonders at widening blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and manages the numerous symptoms of hypertension.
- Consume amla juice mixed with one tablespoon of honey to naturally lower blood pressure. Daily consumption of this juice aids in systolic and diastolic blood pressure regulation.
What are the side effects of Indian gooseberry?
Although amla has many advantages, consuming too much of it can be dangerous. Before taking Indian gooseberry, it is important to consider its adverse effects.
- Amla’s high fiber content increases the possibility of gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, stomachache, and diarrhea.
- The use of Indian gooseberries during pregnancy has not been linked to any known problems. However, before ingesting it, we advise that you consult a physician.
- Blood sugar levels can drop too low when amla is taken in excess or the wrong amount. If the person is taking diabetes medication already, this could make things worse for them.
- Although eating too many amlas may not be possible (because of their sour flavor), caution should still be exercised.
- The Indian gooseberry contains a lot of fiber. Some people believe that too much fiber might cause constipation although appropriate fiber helps relieve it. However, further evidence is required in this case.
- Additionally, too much fiber can harm colonic transit. It can quickly ferment in the colon, which can cause a spike in microbial activity. This causes bloating and cramps in the stomach.
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Medically Reviewed on 8/11/2022
References
Image Source: iStock image
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21317655/
https://nutritionfacts.org/questions/can-indian-gooseberries-be-used-in-baked-goods-without-sacrificing-the-health-benefits/
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-784/indian-gooseberry
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3693724/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4250613/
