The beneficial nutritional and medicinal properties of Amla
Amla, scientifically known as Phyllanthus emblica, is a herbal fruit belonging to the genus Phyllanthus within the family Phyllanthaceae. In Sanskrit, it is referred to as Amlok, while in English, it is commonly called amla or Amloki, as well as the Malacca tree or emblic myrobalan. These trees can be either hairless or hairy and are predominantly found in the Indian subcontinent, including Bangladesh. The fruit is highly regarded for its numerous health benefits, often cited as having around seven, and is affectionately termed the 'Mother of Fruits.'
The Amalaki tree can reach heights between 8 and 18 meters and is classified as deciduous. Its leaves are small, light green, and compound, measuring approximately 1/2 inch in length. Both male and female flowers, which are also light green, grow on the same tree. The fruits, which are spherical and measure about 1/2 inch in diameter, can be light green or yellow in color. The wood of the tree has a dull red or brownish-red hue. This species is prevalent throughout nearly all regions of Bangladesh. The tree typically begins to bear fruit at the age of 4 to 5 years, with fruit availability occurring from August to November. Amla is propagated through seeds, and the optimal time for planting seedlings is during the rainy season.
Amalaki trees are widely distributed throughout the country and are primarily cultivated in regions such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, Pakistan, and Syria. These trees thrive in various natural environments and are commonly found in parks, gardens, orchards, and forests, contributing to the aesthetic appeal of these areas.
Initial investigations into Amalaki have indicated its potential to eliminate viruses and bacteria. Preliminary findings suggest that Amalaki juice may have beneficial effects on rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. Additionally, there is evidence supporting its efficacy against various cancer types. Research involving rats has demonstrated that Amalaki is effective in treating pancreatitis, and it aids in the healing of pancreatic wounds following this condition. Experimental treatments derived from the fruit, leaves, and bark of the Amla tree have shown promise in addressing several health issues, including diabetes, cancer, inflammation, and kidney disease. Furthermore, there is evidence that Amla can reduce blood cholesterol levels in humans.
Research conducted on diabetic rats indicated that Amla juice has the potential to lower blood sugar levels and aid in the restoration of liver function. Amla is abundant in vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, with a concentration of 445 mg per 100 g. Nevertheless, there is some contention regarding its other constituents, and it is suggested that the primary factor contributing to Amla's efficacy as an antioxidant is not vitamin C, but rather compounds known as ellagitannins. These include emblicanin-A (37%), emblicanin-B (33%), panigluconin (12%), and pedunculagin (14%). Additionally, it contains panicafolin and various Phyllanembinins labeled A through F. The fruit is also rich in other polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoids, kaempferol, ellagic acid, and gallic acid.
Amla possesses numerous medicinal benefits, with both its fruit and leaves utilized for therapeutic purposes. It is rich in vitamin C, containing three to ten times the amount found in guava and lemon, respectively. Furthermore, amla has 15 to 20 times more vitamin C than oranges, 120 times more than apples, 24 times more than mangoes, and 60 times more than bananas. An adult requires a daily intake of 30 milligrams of vitamin C. Consuming two Amalaki fruits each day fulfills this requirement. Additionally, Amalaki fruits enhance the flavor experience. Fresh Amla fruit serves as an effective treatment for scurvy and toothaches, and it is also highly advantageous for alleviating stomach pains, colds, coughs, and anemia.
The Amalaki fruit is recognized for its advantages in treating liver conditions and jaundice. Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bahera are known collectively as Triphala. As a component of Ayurvedic medicine, Triphala offers numerous health benefits. By soaking these three dried fruits overnight, straining the mixture, and consuming it as a syrup on an empty stomach in the morning, one can alleviate stomach issues. Amla is also utilized in the production of various oils. Applying a mixture of raw or dried Amalaki leaves with a small amount of butter to the scalp can facilitate quicker sleep onset. Furthermore, applying the juice of raw Amalaki leaves to the hair daily and allowing it to sit for two to three hours can strengthen hair roots, halt hair loss, and prevent premature graying if used consistently for a month.
Amalaki influences the central nervous system by preventing vomiting and providing relief from chronic coughs and colds. It enhances the health of the heart and brain, promotes the well-being of teeth, hair, and skin, and stimulates appetite. Additionally, it aids in alleviating constipation, headaches, acidity, anemia, and nausea, and is effective in treating polyuria. For irritated eyes, applying two drops of raw Amla juice twice daily offers significant relief. Amla is also beneficial in combating hair loss and dandruff. Furthermore, Amla possesses antioxidant and anti-cancer properties, with research indicating its ability to inhibit cancer cell growth. Consuming Amla juice each morning can help prevent peptic ulcers. Amalaki is effective in detoxifying the body and aiding weight loss, and it acts swiftly to manage high blood pressure; daily consumption of Amalaki powder mixed with honey yields positive results.
