Amla (Phyllanthus Emblica): A Rejuvenating Medicinal Herb Linked to Vitality and Longevity

Written By: Vivian Benjamin

Phyllanthus Emblica
Phyllanthus Emblica or as it is commonly called Amla, is a medicinal herb known for its numerous health benefits that can increase vitality and boost longevity. This medicinal herb goes by two scientific names and is also identified as Emblica Officinalis.


As this medicinal herb originates from India, it is also known as Indian Gooseberry. According to ancient Indian mythology, this herb is the first tree to be created in the universe. Although this medicinal herb is first found in India, it is also widely cultivated around Sri Lanka, Malaysia, China, Indonesia and Nepal.


Phyllanthus Emblica can be grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions with a wide range of soils. This medicinal herb grows into a medium-sized, fruit-bearing tree, between 8 to 18cm tall, with light grey bark peeling into irregular chunks. The leaves are light green in colour and the flowers are greenish-yellow. The fruit is greenish yellow, hard on appearance, nearly spherical and weighs around 5 grams. Amla can be eaten raw however, it has a sour, astringent and bitter taste. 




How Does Amla Promote Vitality in Traditional Medicine
The use of Amla is popular in Ayurveda, which is the oldest health system in the world, thanks to its numerous health advantages. This medicinal herb is called “The Rejuvenator” as it contains lots of healthy nutrients to treat ailments and promote vitality.


According to traditional uses, Amla can help treat liver diseases and promote healthy blood circulation, which keeps the heart healthy. Apart from that, Amla can also act as a diuretic, clearing urine infection and boosting kidney health. Besides that, Amla is also useful for strengthening weak bones. Dried Amla fruit boiled with coconut oil is an effective conditioner and prevents hair fall.


​Amla juice in warm milk helps clears throat and dry cough. Aside from that, Amla juice is also used as a tonic for clear eyesight. In addition to that, Amla juice promotes healthy skin tone and treats white spots on nails. Moreover, Amla in the form of Triphala decoction (a combination of Amla, Haritaki or black myrobalan & Bibhitaki or belleric myrobalan) is used to treat high blood pressure. 




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8 Phyllanthus Emblica Evidence-Backed Health Benefits
So, you have read about how Amla is used in traditional medicine to boost vitality and longevity. Now, let’s explore how science backs this evidence. Did you know that Phyllanthus Emblica is rich in Vitamin C and fibre? Not only that, but Indian Gooseberry also contains Vitamin B1 and B3, Iron, Calcium and Phosphorus.


1. Antioxidant properties
Most medicinal herb has antioxidant properties, which give them value to prevent chronic diseases. Thanks to high levels of Vitamin C in Phyllanthus Emblica, this medicinal herb reduces oxidative stress and minimizes the occurrence of chronic illnesses. 



2. Prevents cancer
Medicinal herbs usually contain high levels of polyphenols, which are beneficial in preventing cancer. According to studies done on Amla, this herb has the potential to fight against most cancers, such as lung cancer and liver cancer.
 


3. Reduces inflammation
Chronic inflammation is the main public health concern globally due to the emergence of diseases like cancer, heart disease and metabolic diseases. According to research, Indian Gooseberry reduces inflammation thanks to its high levels of antioxidant properties.
 


4. Protects your liver
The role of your liver is complex and if there is damage to the liver, it will affect all bodily systems. Liver disorders are common around the world. The primary causes of damage to the liver are poor diet, viral infections, and exposure to toxic substances such as drugs and alcohol. According to studies, Amla strengthens the liver by helping it remove toxins.
 


5. Regulates sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure levels
Cardiovascular disease (CVD), hypertension and diabetes have long been in our midst. Many people are succumbing to this illness and early prevention is needed, especially if you are at high risk due to family histories, poor diet and lifestyle factors.  According to research studies, Indian Gooseberry reduces cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure levels, thus supporting heart and pancreas health. 


6. Supports healthy digestion
Digestion is a vital process that takes place in your body. This body function helps the body absorb nutrients to improve health and well-being. According to research done on Indian Gooseberry, this herb is effective against stomach ulcers, heartburn and indigestion.
 


7. Nourishes your skin
Skin, the largest organ in your body, is important to human life. Skin provides a barrier between your internal organs and the external environment. Furthermore, the skin is responsible for many of the body's functions. Since Amla supports healthy digestion, aids in liver detoxification and is rich in Vitamin C, this rejuvenating herb helps improve skin tone, thus making your skin glow and shine.
 


8. Promotes healthy eyesight
At times, the capability to see the world’s beauty can be taken for granted. The eye is a sensitive organ, susceptible to various disorders, predominantly impaired vision. Damaged vision affects us greatly in our everyday lives. It limits our independence, safety, self-esteem, work, and lifestyle choices. Thanks to its high levels of Vitamin C, Amla helps support healthy eyesight. 









All in All
Phyllanthus Emblica or as it is called Amla, is a great rejuvenating herb that promotes vitality and boosts longevity. This small ball-like medicinal herb contains lots of healthy nutrients and helps prevent chronic ailments.


Nutrition Takes explores 8 evidence-backed health advantages of Indian Gooseberry so you can nourish your body from the inside and outside.


Share or ask questions if you would like to know more about the topic or if you have different insights that you would like to share. I am always happy to know about your journey in holistic approaches. 









References
1. Hassan et al. (2020); Emblica Officinalis (Amla): A Prospective Review on Distinctive Properties and Therapeutic Application
   of Amla; Innovare Journal of Ayurvedic Sciences; 8(3): 1-6.

2. Javed et al. (2023); Amla; Essentials of Medicinal and Aromatic Crops; 10.1007.

3. Gul et al. (2022); Functional and Nutraceutical Significance of Amla (Phyllanthus Emblica): An Overview; Antioxidants; 11(5): 816.

4. Firuz et al. (2019); Phyllanthus Emblica (Amla) – A Natural Gift to Humans: An Overview; Journal of Diseases and Medicinal Plants;
    5(1): 1-9.


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