Medicinal Properties of Indian Gooseberry

Indian gooseberry or amla has a variety of medicinal properties. Its botanical name is Emblica officinalis. In the Ayurvedic literature Indian gooseberry had been documented as panacea. It is very rich source of vitamin-C even in the dry form. In addition to vitamin-C, Indian gooseberry also contains vitamin-B, calcium, phosphorus, carotene and iron. Intake of fresh gooseberry or powder of the dry gooseberry is equally beneficial in liver disorders, hypercholesterolemia (elevated level of cholesterol in blood) and diabetes. It improves digestion, immunity and also checks premature greying of hair. Millions of tons of Indian gooseberry fruit are processed every year for medicinal uses. Its pulp is the main content of chaywanprash and amritprash. Its jam and juice are in the top line of health promoting foods and natural revitalizers. Dry powder of amla should be taken with water only. Regular intake of half a spoon of dry powder of Indian gooseberry could supply us daily dose of vitamin-C, iron and phosphorus. People with peptic ulcer should avoid using dry powder of Indian gooseberry. The Indian System of Medicine had always admired medicinal properties of Indian gooseberry and propagated its use as natural revitalizer.