8 Health Benefits of Amla

With winter comes season illness. This is what we all think. But the fact is it is winter that is the best season to boost immunity. Doctors and health experts say that eating seasonal fruits can avoid all kinds of diseases. One of the most beneficial seasonal fruits is 'Amla.'    

Amla is a powerhouse of vitamin C, an essential nutrient for the winter season. Vitamin C helps boost immunity and protect the body from colds and flu during winter. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of amla can help reduce the symptoms of cold and cough, as well as other winter ailments such as asthma and sinusitis. Amla is also known to help improve digestion and increase metabolism, which is important during winter. This may be why Unani Amla is considered a medicine for 100 diseases. Unani compares amla to nectar.   

Also read: Ayurvedic Guide to Winter Wellness 

Health Benefits of Amla

1) Supports Healthy Immune Function

One of the main ways amla supports the immune system is by providing a rich source of antioxidants and vitamin C, which help to protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can weaken the immune system. Additionally, Amla contains high levels of flavonoids, tannins, and other compounds that have been shown to have immune-boosting properties. These compounds may help to support the activity of white blood cells, which are important for fighting off infection and disease.  

2) Lowers blood sugar levels  

Amla has high levels of chromium and polyphenols, which are known to have a beneficial effect on glucose metabolism. Some research studies suggest that amla may have a potential role in controlling diabetes and its complications. This is because amla is a rich source of antioxidants and helps reduce oxidative stress associated with diabetes. Additionally, the high fiber content in amla may help slow down digestion and sugar absorption, thereby helping maintain normal blood sugar levels.  

3) Supports Healthy Digestion  

Amla supports healthy digestion as it has high levels of vitamin C and other antioxidants, which help to protect the gut lining and promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. It also contains high levels of dietary fiber, which helps to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation. It also positively affects gastric acidity and can help reduce symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn.  

• How to consume: Cook 5-6 Amla. Add 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 dry ginger, a pinch of rock salt, 1/4 tsp roasted cumin, and 1/4 tsp asafoetida. Cook it until it dries. It helps relieve problems like indigestion and induces hunger.

4) Healthy Hair Growth  

Amla is also a rich source of minerals like iron, calcium, and phosphorous, which are important for healthy hair growth. Amla oil and powder, made from fruit, are commonly used in traditional hair care practices in India. It is believed to strengthen hair, prevent hair loss, and promote shine and luster.  

• How to apply: Make a paste of amla mixture by taking 2 tsp of amla churan, 1 tsp kernel of mango, and ½ tsp of iron ash. Soak all of it overnight in an iron pan. If you are young and your hair has turned grey. Apply the paste to turn grey hair back in a few days.

5) Treats Cataract  

Amla is believed to have potential benefits for eye health, including preventing and treating cataracts. A cataract clouds the eye's lens, which can cause vision loss. Generally, with increasing age, the issue of cataracts increases. Amla is high in antioxidants, particularly Vitamin C, which can help to protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are known to play a role in the development of cataracts.  

• How to apply: To avoid a cataract, mix ½ tsp honey and ½ tsp ghee with amla. Apply the mixture to the eyes to relieve the eyes' yellowness and cataracts.

6) Reduces the Risk of Epistaxis  

Unani scholars suggest amla or nosebleeds, also known as epistaxis. The cause of nosebleeds can vary, but it is often a symptom of dryness in the nasal passages, which dry air, colds, allergies, or other respiratory infections can cause. As amla is high in Vitamin C, it helps to reduce inflammation and strengthen the capillaries in the nose, reducing the risk of bleeding.  

• How to Apply: Finely grind 1 tsp jamun, 1 tsp mango, and 1 tsp amla. Apply this paste on the head to relieve nose bleeding.

7) Treats Sore Throat  

Amla boosts the immune system and reduces inflammation in the throat. With winter comes the issue of sore throat; amla powder or amla churan is beneficial to ease it.  

• How to consume: Mix 1 tbsp of parsley, turmeric, amla, and chitrak in equal quantities. Have ½ tsp of this paste with 2 spoons of honey and 1 spoon of ghee to cure sore throat.

8) Cures Piles  

Amla helps in reducing pain and swelling associated with piles. Piles are caused due to low fiber intake in the diet and poor eating habits, which makes the stool hard and leads to constipation. As we know, amla is good for digestion and works wonders in piles/ constipation. Amla is also present in Triphala, which is one of the effective medicines for constipation.   

• How to consume: Grind amla well and coat in an earthen vessel (inside). The person suffering from piles should drink buttermilk in the same vessel.   
  If the bleeding continues and is excessive, the patient should take 1 and ½ tsp of amla powder with curd cream. For better results, have this 2-3 times a day.

Please have a personal or online dietician consultation to know what needs to be added to the diet to improve overall health.

Note: Along with medicine, the patients have to follow a strict regime per the guideline of the Unani system of medicine. Therefore, it is strongly advisable to avoid self-medication.  
Patients are advised to visit the nearest authorized Unani Centre for treatment and advice.  

Conclusion

Amla juice or powder can be consumed orally or applied topically to the affected area. However, it is important to note that amla is not a substitute for medical treatment. You can consult the holistic doctors at HealthyBazar before trying any new remedies or for the severity of any conditions mentioned above. Also, it's better to combine it with other natural remedies and ensure you are following a high-fiber diet and drinking enough water to prevent constipation.