The efficacy of Vitamin C in preventing viral and bacterial infections is a well-known fact. In the current context of Covid-19, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic and immuno-modulatory properties of Vitamin C have assumed even greater relevance in the realm of healthcare. [1, 2]

Amla (also known as Indian gooseberries) is known worldwide as a “superfruit” since a 100-gram serving contains Vitamin C equivalent to 20 oranges. Also rich in iron and calcium, as well as a gamut of polyphenols (gallic acid, ellagic acid, corilagin, etc), this wonder fruit is used as a cardiovascular tonic, an immunity booster and a host of other medicinal purposes. [3, 4]

Health benefits

There are myriad health benefits associated with this fruit [3, 5, 6]:

• Diabetes regulation: The soluble fibre dissolves quickly into the bloodstream which helps to slow the rate of sugar absorption in the body. It is also known to have a positive effect on blood glucose and lipid counts in patients with Type 2 Diabetes.
• Good digestion: Amla regulates bowel movements and may provide relief in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The high content of Vitamin C present in Amla helps the body absorb other vital nutrients.
• Eye health: Rich in vitamin A, Amla is the key to improving eye health. It may lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration and in preventing bacterial infection in the case of Conjunctivitis.
• Boosts immunity: Vitamin C, polyphenols, alkaloids and flavonoids contribute to the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of Amla.
• Improves memory: The phytonutrients and antioxidants can benefit memory as it fights against free radicals that attack and damage brain cells. The high concentration of Vitamin C helps the body produce norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that improves brain function in individuals suffering from Dementia.
• Beneficial for hair and skin: Vitamin C helps the collagen form correctly, thereby improving skin quality. It is also beneficial for hair growth and vitality.
• Cancer prevention: Amla extracts have destroyed certain types of cancer cells, viz. breast, cervical, ovarian and lung cancers in several in vivo This is due to their antioxidant property that helps prevent cell mutations.
• Prevents liver damage: Amla extracts protected the liver from damage caused by either a high fat diet or N-nitrosodiethylamine (that is toxic to the liver). This is once again attributed to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
• Herbal remedy: Amla is used in cooking and as a herbal medicine in Asian countries. There are many potential benefits attributed to this such as anti-ageing, cancer prevention, heartburn reduction and good heart-health.

Nutrients per serving

A half-cup serving of Amla berries contains [3]:

• Calories: 33
• Protein: Less than 1 gram
• Fat: Less than 1 gram
• Carbohydrates: 8 grams
• Fiber: 3 grams
• Sugar: 0 grams

They are an excellent source of:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin A
• Iron
• Calcium

Precautions [6]

• Amla has anti-platelet properties – it can thus thin blood and prevent normal blood clotting.
• Patients with bleeding disorders or consuming blood thinners should consume Amla only after consulting a reputed doctor.
• It is strictly prohibited to consume Amla prior to any form of surgery.
• Since it may lower blood sugar levels, patients with Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes or other blood sugar management conditions should be judicious before consuming this wonder fruit.
• Given the lack of evidence regarding its safety, it is prudent to avoid Amla supplements if one is trying to conceive, is pregnant or breastfeeding.

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Disclaimer:

Anzen Export’s blog posts have been written with the information gathered from approved medical journals and websites online. Our research and technical team strives to provide relevant information through such articles. To be best informed, we advise consulting a doctor about an ingredient or medicine prior to taking it.

References:

[1] PubMed [online]: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33121019/

[2] Frontiers in Medicine [online]: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmed.2020.559811/full

[3] WebMD [online]: https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-amla#1

[4]Practo [online]: https://www.practo.com/healthfeed/amla-the-vitamin-c-powerhouse-26192/post

[5] NDTV Health [online]: https://www.ndtv.com/health/amla-health-benefits-6-reasons-why-you-must-include-amla-in-your-diet-especially-during-winter-1968718

[6] Healthline [online]: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/indian-gooseberry#downsides