Amla (Indian Gooseberry) — Hermetica Encyclopedia
Fruit

Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

Provisional Moderate ScoreCompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Amla (Phyllanthus emblica) contains exceptionally high vitamin C (191-720 mg/100g) and phenolic compounds including gallic acid, ellagic acid, and tannins that provide potent antioxidant activity. These bioactives scavenge free radicals, inhibit COX-1/COX-2 enzymes, enhance insulin sensitivity, and modulate immune responses through CD4/CD8 T-cell activation.

Screened PMID Records
7
Reported Benefits
Pending
Synergy Review
At a Glance
CategoryFruit
GroupFruit
Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate
Primary Keywordamla (indian gooseberry) benefits
Amla (Indian Gooseberry) — botanical
Amla (Indian Gooseberry) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Boosts immune health
with exceptionally high vitamin C content, enhancing pathogen resistance and collagen synthesis.
Provides potent antioxidant
protection through polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins, reducing oxidative stress and cellular aging.
Modulates systemic inflammation
via compounds like ellagic acid, supporting cardiovascular and joint health.
Enhances digestive health
by acting as a mild laxative and stimulating nutrient absorption and liver detoxification.
Supports blood sugar
regulation by potentially improving insulin sensitivity and glycemic control.
Promotes heart health
by contributing to lower LDL cholesterol and improved lipid profiles.
Rejuvenates hair and
skin by strengthening roots, promoting growth, and enhancing skin tone.

Origin & History

Amla (Indian Gooseberry) — origin
Natural habitat

Amla (Phyllanthus emblica), also known as Indian Gooseberry, is a vibrant green fruit native to the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, growing on a hardy deciduous tree. Revered in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, Amla is a potent antioxidant and adaptogenic superfood, valued for its exceptional rejuvenating and therapeutic properties that support immunity, digestion, and longevity.

Amla (Phyllanthus emblica) has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic healing for millennia, revered as a Rasayana (rejuvenative) herb for vitality and longevity. Known as “Amalaki,” it is believed to balance all three doshas and plays a vital role in traditional tonics, elixirs, and beauty regimens. Its deep cultural significance reflects its enduring role in both spiritual rituals and everyday healing across the Indian subcontinent.Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Amla's efficacy is validated in multiple clinical and pharmacological studies, demonstrating significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and cardioprotective effects. Research, including studies indexed on PubMed and ScienceDirect, corroborates its traditional uses. These findings support its role in modern wellness for immune, metabolic, and cardiovascular health.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Dietary Fiber: Supports gut motility and microbial balance. - Vitamin C: Exceptionally high content, enhancing immunity and collagen production. - Calcium: Supports bone and nerve function. - Phosphorus: Supports bone and nerve function. - Iron: Supports blood and nerve function. - Polyphenols (Gallic acid, Ellagic acid): Offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. - Tannins (Emblicanin A and B): Powerful free-radical scavengers and gut health supporters. - Flavonoids (Quercetin, Kaempferol): Provide anti-inflammatory and metabolic benefits.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Amla's phenolic compounds including gallic acid, ellagic acid, and tannins like emblicanin scavenge free radicals, chelate metals, and inhibit lipid peroxidation by boosting catalase activity and lowering MDA levels. The fruit's anti-inflammatory effects occur through inhibition of COX-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX enzymes, while tannins block sugar-digesting enzymes and enhance insulin sensitivity. Immunomodulatory effects involve upregulation of CD4/CD8 T-cells and increased IgM/IgG antibody production.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Clinical trials in metabolic syndrome patients using 250-500 mg twice daily of aqueous amla extract demonstrated improved endothelial function, reduced inflammation markers, and enhanced lipid profiles. Animal studies show immune enhancement with 250 mg/kg increasing CD4/CD8/IgM/IgG levels, while 100-200 mg/kg for 19 days boosted antibody and white blood cell counts. Research on Capros extract (containing 0.3% gallic acid) showed consistent antioxidant effects with improved RBC and liver catalase activity compared to high gallic acid extracts (6-15%). The evidence base consists primarily of small clinical trials and animal studies, with larger human trials needed to confirm therapeutic efficacy.

Also Known As

Phyllanthus emblicaEmblica officinalisAonlaIndian GooseberryEmblicMyrobalan

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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