Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica / Emblica officinalis), commonly known as Amla or Indian Gooseberry, holds the supreme position among Rasayana herbs in Ayurveda. The Charaka Samhita declares that Amalaki is the best of all Rasayanas, and that it can prevent premature aging and disease when used regularly.

Its extraordinary Vitamin C content (600-700 mg per 100g fresh fruit — heat-stable due to tannins) makes it one of the most potent antioxidants in nature. The Vitamin C in Amla is bound to tannins, protecting it from oxidative degradation during cooking — making it far more bioavailable than most Vitamin C sources.

Amalaki is Tridoshic, pacifying all three doshas, and has a particular affinity for Pitta. It nourishes all seven body tissues (Sapta Dhatu), strengthens Ojas (vital essence), and is considered a supreme anti-aging food.

• Highest Natural Antioxidant: ORAC score of 261,500 — one of the highest of any food.
• Liver Protection: Comparable to silymarin (milk thistle) in protecting liver cells from toxin damage.
• Cardiovascular: Reduces LDL oxidation, triglycerides, and arterial plaque formation.
• Anti-diabetic: Chromium content improves insulin sensitivity; reduces blood glucose.
• Eye Health: Carotenoids and Vitamin C protect against macular degeneration and cataracts.
• Hair Nourishment: Strengthens hair follicles; prevents premature graying; improves hair luster.
• Immunity: Enhances both innate and adaptive immune responses.
• Anti-cancer: Gallotannins and ellagic acid shown to induce apoptosis in cancer cells.

• Fresh Amla Fruit: 1-2 fresh amlas daily — the most complete nutritional form.
• Amla Juice: 20-30 ml of fresh juice diluted in water daily in the morning.
• Chyawanprash: The most famous Ayurvedic jam, with Amla as the primary ingredient.
• Amla Churna: 3-6 grams of powder in water or mixed in food.
• Amla Oil: Topically for hair strength, preventing gray hair, and scalp health.
• Triphala: As the Amalaki component of Ayurveda's most used formula.