Ingredient profile
Amla
Phyllanthus emblica
Indian gooseberry, a sour fruit rich in natural vitamin C and a cornerstone of Ayurvedic rasayana.
- Hindi
- आंवला
- Sanskrit
- Amalaki
- Family
- Phyllanthaceae
- Part used
- fruit
Traditional use
Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is the small, pale-green, very sour fruit of a medium-sized deciduous tree. It is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C.
In Ayurvedic tradition
Amla (Amalaki) is among the most celebrated rasayanas in Ayurveda. It is one of the three fruits of Triphala and the main ingredient of Chyawanprash, and it is traditionally taken to support immunity, digestion, skin and hair.
Ayurvedic properties
- Rasa (taste): Sour (with five of the six tastes)
- Guna (qualities): Heavy, dry
- Virya (potency): Cooling
- Vipaka (post-digestive effect): Sweet
- Effect on the doshas: Balances all three doshas
How it is traditionally taken
Amla is eaten fresh, pickled, dried or as juice; the dried fruit powder is used in Triphala and other blends.
Safety notes
Generally used as a food. Very large amounts may not suit sensitive stomachs. Use as directed on the product label. This profile is for general education and is not medical advice.
References
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (monograph: Amalaki) pharmacopoeia