Sour remedy, sweet aftertaste!

Eisha Sarkar

Posted on Hello Wellness on Mar 18 2011 3:42PM

Known in the West as the Indian gooseberry and Amalaki in many parts of India, the humble amla is one of the richest natural sources of antioxidant vitamin C that makes it a very important component of diet and therapy.

While it is low in saturated fats, cholesterol and sodium, each fruit of the Emblica officinalis also contains dietary fiber, calcium, phosphorus, iron, carotene, vitamin B Complex, protein and carbohydrates.

The consumption of amla benefits the body in many ways:

• It has great antioxidant properties that fight free radicals that are responsible for ageing and cell degeneration
• It is good for your hair, skin and eyes. It prevents premature greying and hair-fall
• It ensures better digestion of food and also balances stomach acid. It helps in the cases of diarrhoea, dysentery, haemorrhoids, gastritis and colitis
• It is believed to support heart function and strengthen the lungs
• It acts as a body coolant and also flushes out toxins
• It helps increase vitality and improve muscle tone
• It helps improve immunity
• It is said to help in the treatment of hemorrhage, menorrhagia (abnormally heavy and prolonged menstrual period), leucorrhoea (white vaginal discharge) and dischargeof blood from uterus
• It helps increase red blood cell production
• It cleanses the mouth and strengthens the teeth and nails

Amla is said to help with the treatment of ailments such as anaemia, cerebral, gastro and cardiovascular illnesses, constipation, indigestion, insomnia, liver disorder, respiratory problems, sun strokes and urinary problems.

Pickled, salted, sweetened, pulped, juiced or dried - while the amla is consumed in many forms, you will reap the maximum benefits if you have it fresh. And if you can’t stand the sour taste, just drink a glass of water. It will leave you with a sweet aftertaste!