Amla

Indian gooseberry also known as amla is known to be very nourishing. Amla fruit tastes sour. Both dried and fresh fruits can be used. Due to its strong, cooling and laxative properties it has been widely used in hemorrhage, diarrhea and dysentery. It also prevents infection due to the antibacterial and astringent attributes present in it. It has been widely used for treatment of leucorrhea and atherosclerosis. Amla is the most potent natural source of Vitamin C. In fact, this tiny fruit has as much Vitamin C as two oranges. Vitamin C, when taken in the form of supplements, is not always easily absorbed. But when you eat an amla berry, the Vitamin C present is easily assimilated by body. So the next time you think of reaching for a supplement, think again and reach for an amla berry instead.

Further, Vitamin C is an excellent anti-oxidant and as amla is so rich in Vitamin C, it has strong anti-oxidant properties and helps combat free radicals. Free radicals are unstable ions in the body, responsible for ageing and cell degeneration. Amla stabilises these free radicals and is believed to be the most powerful rejuvenating agent known to man. Just like most berries, it is low in sugar and has a high fibre content, making it an ideal daily fruit for almost anyone. However, if you have a heart condition, you may want to check with your doctor before taking amla regularly. This is because amla stimulates the heart.

BENEFITS

1. Amla is one of the best anti-inflammatory herbs. It prevents ageing and promotes longevity.
2. It is very useful in skin diseases as it has sheet virya in potency. It inhibits pitta and thus helps in getting relief from all the skin disorders caused by pitta dominance. Regular intake of Amla promotes glow on skin and delays wrinkles or loosening of skin.
3. Amla with honey every day for one month cures the problem of leucorrhoea.
4. Amla also helps boost protein metabolism. As amla enhances metabolism, it helps you lose weight faster.
5. It is very useful in improving eyesight. It also counters diseases like reddening, itching and watering of eyes.
6. Amla is very useful in controlling blood sugar level.
7. It also helps maintain the functioning of the liver.
8. Amla cleanses the mouth and strengthens the teeth.
9. It balances stomach acids because it improves digestion but does not heat the body.
10. It nourishes the brain and mental functioning.
11. Amla has powerful antioxidants, which protects from harmful free radicals that can increase the risk of a wide range of serious diseases including cancer.

HAIR CARE

1. Soak four-five pieces of amla in a cup of water overnight. Early in the morning take little water in fist and put in mouth and rinse. Apply the remaining water to head and take bath after an hour. This will help in stopping the hair fall.
2. It nourishes hair roots and prevents pre-mature graying.
3. Eat amla daily to internally nourish hair and skin by adding it to a well-balanced diet. It gives body adequate protein and iron and thereby gives nourishment to hair.
4. Washing hair with amla powder mixed with shikakai powder or ritha powder will stop graying of hair and gives glow by making hair smooth and silky.
5. Use of amla to wash hair maintains the colour and luster of the hair and acts as a natural hair conditioner.

By Sudhanshu Jain