Names & Classification
- Botanical Name
- Emblica officinalis
- Sanskrit Name
- Amalaki / Dhatri
- English Name(s)
- Amla / Indian Gooseberry
- Family
- Phyllanthaceae
- Part Used
- Fruit
About This Herb
Amla is one of the richest natural sources of Vitamin C and is considered the single most important rejuvenative fruit in Ayurveda. Unlike synthetic Vitamin C that degrades quickly, Amla's Vitamin C is naturally stabilized and remains potent even when cooked. It supports everything from immunity to hair health.
Where It Grows
Native to tropical and southern Asia, found throughout India ascending to 1350 meters in hilly regions. Preferred cultivation areas in Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Harvested November-February in hilly terrain regions.
Ayurvedic Profile
The single most important Rasayana herb in all of Ayurveda. Amalaki is called 'Dhatri' (the nurse/mother) because it nurtures and sustains like a mother. It is one of the rare Tridoshic fruits — balancing all three doshas simultaneously. It is also one of the three components of Triphala and the primary ingredient in Chyawanprash. Rasa: Pancharasa with Amla (Sour) predominance. Virya: Sheeta (Cooling). Vipaka: Madhura (Sweet). Dosha: Tridoshic.
Key Benefits
Vitamin C delivery, immune support, antioxidant protection, hair and skin health, rejuvenation
Research & Studies
The following research highlights scientific validation of traditional uses:
A Pilot clinical study to evaluate the effect of Emblica officinalis extract (Amlamax) on markers of systemic inflammation and dyslipidemia
Authors: Clinical Research Team
Journal: PubMed (2012)
Clinical trial showed that 500 mg and 1000 mg daily doses of amla for 6 months significantly reduced total and LDL cholesterols, enhanced HDL cholesterol, and decreased inflammatory marker CRP levels.
Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn), a wonder berry in the treatment and prevention of cancer
Authors: Cancer Research Team
Journal: PubMed (2010)
Review documented that amla possesses radiomodulatory, chemomodulatory, chemopreventive, free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and immunomodulatory activities for cancer treatment and prevention.
Clinical evaluation of Emblica Officinalis Gatern (Amla) in healthy human subjects: Health benefits and safety results from a randomized, double-blind, crossover placebo-controlled study
Authors: Clinical Research Team
Journal: PMC (PubMed Central) (2020)
Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study showed 500 mg daily dose of amla was well-tolerated and safe in healthy humans with significant improvements in antioxidant markers and endogenous antioxidant defense system.
The impact of Emblica Officinalis (Amla) on lipid profile, glucose, and C-reactive protein: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Meta-analysis Research Team
Journal: PubMed (2023)
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials confirmed significant effects of amla supplementation on improving lipid profiles, reducing glucose levels, and decreasing inflammatory markers.
Functional and Nutraceutical Significance of Amla (Phyllanthus emblica L.): A Review
Authors: Nutraceutical Research Team
Journal: PMC (PubMed Central) (2022)
Comprehensive review highlighted amla's rich polyphenol and vitamin C content providing powerful antioxidant activities with in vivo effects improving overall antioxidant status and immune function.
Products Containing Amla / Indian Gooseberry
- Triphala (Capsule)
- Chandanadi Bati (Tablet)
- Amla Juice (Juice)
- Triphala Juice (Juice)
- Chyawanprash (Food)
- Sugar-Free Chyawanprash (Food)
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have pre-existing health conditions.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.