The amla (Phyllanthus emblica) is
native to the Southeast Asia, and its consumption is very common in countries
like India, where is widely used in ayurvedic medicine.
The amla fruit, which can be
consumed fresh or dried, has a vitamin C content about 20 times greater than an
orange. In addition to the large quantities of ascorbic acid (vitamin C), the
amla has a high density of ellagitannins antioxidants. It has polyphenols flavonoids,
kaempferol, ellagic acid and gallic acid.
A pilot study in normal men, between
35 and 55 years old, showed a reduction in blood cholesterol levels and
hypercholesterolemia, with the amla base treatment.
Another study on rats, with induced
diabetes, showed that the aqueous extract of amla fruit significantly reduced
the blood glucose and triglyceride levels and improved liver function.
Benefits
of the amla
Also known as Indian gooseberry, the
amla plant, native of this subcontinent, is an exotic tree that has become
popular around the world because of its remarkable medicinal properties and the
pleasant taste of its fruits.
Very rich in vitamin C, this Indian
gooseberry increases the absorption of nutrients from other foods, besides
being an excellent natural remedy for a number of disturbances and diseases in
the body.
Let's check some medicinal uses of the
amla fruit:
Hair
This Indian gooseberry, eaten fresh,
or by applying the pulp directly on the hair root, acts as tonic, stimulates
growth and enhances the pigmentation (therefore it can darken the strands of hair).
In India, the amla oil is quite
popular as a natural product to combat hair loss.
Another good option is to mix equal
amounts of amla pulp and lemon juice and use it to massage the scalp and hair
thoroughly.
Let stand overnight and then wash
your hair the next morning. Do this once a week to control hair loss.
Fighting
against gastrointestinal problems
For those who suffer from disorders
in the stomach and intestines, amla can be a great ally. Used in natural
medicine for diarrhea, this plant stands out for its calming properties in
these organs: it relaxes the contractions, cools the body and relieves the
feeling of irritation in the abdomen.
Diabetes
Rich in mineral chromium, which
helps the body use insulin, the amla fruit can help control sugar levels in the
blood. Who suffers from diabetes can have this fruit as an excellent allied,
since it stimulates the cells that secrete the insulin hormone.
Mix 1 or 2 tablespoons of amla
powder tea or juice in a glass of water.
Drink daily on an empty stomach for
controlling diabetes and managing its complications.
Appetite
For those who want to gain weight
with health, the powder of this fruit can be eaten before meals to improve
appetite. The product helps to regulate nitrogen levels in the body and
increase the weight in a healthy way.
Improves
vision
Amla is also good for improving
vision. Composed of vitamin C and other antioxidants, amla helps maintain the
proper functioning of retinal cells.
This is important for healthy
vision. It also reduces redness and itching while helping to lubricate the
eyes.
Furthermore, due to its carotene
content, amla helps improve myopia and cataracts, reducing the intraocular
pressure.
In addition, Vitamin A and carotene
can help reduce the risk of macular degeneration and night blindness among the
elderly.
Mix 2 tablespoons of amla tea juice
½ cup water. Optionally, add a little honey. Drink every morning to strengthen
your vision.
Cognitive
health benefits
This fruit also plays a key role in
improving memory and cognitive functions.
Being rich in vitamin C and other
powerful antioxidants, the amla nourishes the brain and the mental functioning.
It is a good tonic for the brain and nerves and assists in the improvement of
the central nervous system of the body.
A 2007 study published in the
journal Psychology & Behavior found that it improves memory and behavior.
Furthermore, it is useful in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's
disease.
To increase the brain power take
twice daily 1 to 3 teaspoons of amla powder.
Delays
aging
To slow the signs of aging, you
should start including amla in your diet, as well as in cosmetic uses. Due to
the high concentration of antioxidants, amla reduces the amount of free
radicals in the body.
This in turn helps prevent early
signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines and age spots.
Furthermore, amla is rich in vitamin
A essential for collagen production to maintain skin elasticity and to maintain
the youthful appearance.
It strengthens the liver and helps
the release of toxins from the body. This is important to enjoy healthy and
glowing skin.
You must include amla fruit or juice
in your regular diet.
Protects
your heart
Its iron level promotes the
production of new red blood cells, improves circulation, and maintains clean
arteries.
This in turn reduces the risk of
heart attacks and strokes.
A 2012 study published in the Indian
Journal of Pharmacology found that amla produces a significant hypolipidemic
effect, along with a decrease in blood pressure.
Thus, it can provide significant
protection against atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.
Prevents
urinary problems
Alma is also good for the renal
system. Being diuretic in nature, it increases the frequency and volume of
urination.
This helps to release toxins through
the urinary system without over-stimulation.
Vitamin C in amla inhibits the
growth of bacteria and thus helps in the treatment of urinary problems such as
urinary tract infections.
Supports
oral health
Vitamin C and other nutrients in the
amla are good for your oral health. They fight bacteria and infections, which
helps prevent tooth decay and protects the cavities.
It also helps healing and the
development of gum tissue when taken internally.
In addition, it cleans the mouth of
harmful bacteria that cause bad breath.
Because it is a native fruit from Asia,
it could be difficult to find fresh amla available to buy. There are a number
of companies that process amla commercially as a supplement or juice.
It can be purchased online, at
Amazon (safely and with the guarantee of this great company).
Why not start today an easy change
in your health habits?