9 Health Benefits of Amla Powder 2023: How To Avail Of Them?
Reviewed by Sutton, D., MD
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The benefits of Amla powder on the skin, hair, gut, and immune system are well known. But how effective is the active ingredient in the drug? How much of a factor do its side effects have on users? This analysis looks at some of the top manufacturers in 2023 and evaluates Amla powder in-depth.
What Is Amla Powder?
Amla powder, also referred to as Indian gooseberry powder, is a component used to make traditional Indian herbal remedies. It is made from the dried fruit of the Phyllanthus Emblica Indian gooseberry tree. Amla powder is used to make Ayurvedic medicines because of its therapeutic potential[1] to advance general health and wellbeing. Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties are thought to be supported by the remedy. Since it is thought to encourage hair growth and have abilities to prevent hair loss, it is also used in the preparation of hair care products. Alas, no regulatory body like the FDA has ever formally approved Amla powder as a medicine, despite it being widely used.
9 Wonderful Benefits of Amla Powder
Support For Digestion
Amla powder is well known for its ability to improve digestion. High levels of vitamin C, antioxidants and other beneficial substances that support the digestive system can be found in the Ayurvedic remedy. The ingredients improve the general condition of the user’s digestive system and help to reduce gut inflammation.
Additionally, Amla powder increases the amount of hydrochloric acid produced in the stomach, which aids in better nutrient absorption and the breakdown of food. The powder also improves the function of the liver and pancreas, which helps with food digestion and absorption even more.
Amla powder is also a mild natural laxative. It facilitates bowel movements for simple stool passing and relieves constipation. The powder can also facilitate a number of digestive processes, enhance gut health generally and protect users from a number of digestive disorders, so adding it to your diet complements overall digestion.
Reduce Inflammation
The body’s healthy, natural response to tissue damage or infection is inflammation. Chronic inflammation, however, has been linked to a number of diseases, including diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
Antioxidants found in Amla powder[2] help to reduce chronic inflammation. It contains vitamin C, which aids in scavenging free radicals and averting potential oxidative stress damage. According to numerous studies, Amla powder can lessen inflammation in the body of people by preventing the activity of inflammatory enzymes.
According to the studies, Amla powder is a great source of tannins and flavonoids, both of which help to lower inflammation. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties that affect the gut and can lessen inflammation in the gut lining.
Boost The Immune System
Vitamin C, a necessary nutrient supporting the body’s defense system, is abundant in Amla powder. White blood cell production is boosted by vitamin C, which helps the immune system fight off illnesses and infections.
The antioxidants in the medicinal powder also assist in scavenging free radicals, which are known to damage cells and impair the immune system.
Optimum Eye Health
Amla powder is thought to enhance eye health by shielding the eyes from oxidative stress brought on by free radicals. Free radicals are a class of molecules that are known to harm body cells, including those in the eyes. Amla powder contains potent antioxidants that work to counteract free radicals, shielding the eye cells from damage.
Additionally, Amla powder improves blood flow to all body tissues, including the blood that goes to the eyes. Increased blood flow nourishes and maintains the health of the eye cells.
Improve Hair Health
Amla powder encourages hair growth, stops hair loss and enhances the general health of hair. The powder is a great source of vitamins and other nutrients for healthy hair. The abundance of vitamins promotes the synthesis of collagen, which is necessary for hair growth.
Amla powder can help strengthen hair follicles on the scalp, resulting in thicker, healthier hair. Amla powder is regarded as a natural hair conditioner that can assist in moisturizing and nourishing the hair, leaving it shiny and soft.
Enhance Skin Health
Antioxidants and vitamin C aid in the production of collagen, lessen inflammation and shield the skin from oxidative damage[3]. These characteristics make it most effective for the treatment of various skin conditions.
Amla powder treats acne, brightens the skin, lessens pigmentation, slows the aging process of the skin, moisturizes the scalp, prevents the accumulation of dandruff and exfoliates the skin in a gentle manner.
Increasing Brain And Memory Function
By reducing the activity of free radicals in the brain, Amla powder antioxidants and phytonutrients help to improve memory and brain function. Memory loss and other issues with brain health are caused by free radicals, which attack and damage brain cells.
By increasing the production of norepinephrine, a biochemical known to enhance brain function in dementia patients, the abundant amounts of Vitamin C in Amla powder also contribute to improving brain health.
Prevent Certain Cancer Types
Radiomodulatory, chemopreventive, chemo-modulatory, antimutagenic and immunomodulatory properties are thought to exist in Amla powder. These properties help with cancer prevention and treatment[4].
Diabetes Control
Amla powder has anti-diabetic properties. According to some studies, the powder boosts blood glucose metabolism, reduces toxins and helps lower blood sugar levels.
Potential Side Effects
When taken in moderation, Amla powder is generally regarded as safe. However, despite being generally beneficial, some people may experience the following side effects:
Hypoglycaemia
The Indian gooseberry has been shown to effectively lower blood sugar and blood pressure. When combined with anti-hyperglycemic medication, it can cause complications such as hypoglycemia[5].
Gastrointestinal Upset
Because of the high levels of vitamin C and other active compounds in Amla powder, it may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or nausea. Some people have reported that the compounds irritate their stomachs and cause stomach discomfort. The symptoms could also be caused by Amla powder high acidic content.
Increased Risk Of Bleeding
Because of its antiplatelet properties, Amla powder may increase the risk of blood loss. This risk increases significantly when combined with blood-thinning medications like aspirin.
Increases Risk Of Skin Problems
Because the Indian gooseberry is diuretic, it is beneficial to people who want to eliminate toxins and waste from their bodies. However, if the user does not stay hydrated, this effect increases urine production and may cause skin problems.
How To Consume Amla Powder?
Amla powder is primarily used in the preparation of medicines, but it can also be used in cooking or as a dietary supplement in the form of capsules or tablets.
Take one or two teaspoons first thing in the morning before anything else. Combine the powder with 1 teaspoon of honey or warm water. You can also mix the powder into your food and consume it once or twice a day.
To avoid side effects, it is strongly advised to begin with a small dose of Amla powder and gradually increase intake. To avoid health complications, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using a dietary supplement.
How To Use Amla Powder For Hair?
Amla powder is used to make hair masks. Make a paste of the powder and water, apply to the scalp and leave on for 30-40 minutes before washing out.
To make a hair mask, use it alone or in combination with other ingredients such as fenugreek powder, curry leaves and coconut oil.
The Indian gooseberry, like all other treatments, may take some time to show results. However, it gradually improves with continued use.
How To Use Amla Powder For Skin?
Amla powder can be made into a face mask. To do so, combine 2 tablespoons Amla powder, 2 tablespoons yogurt and 1 teaspoon honey. Allow the mixture to dry on your face and neck for about 20 minutes before washing it off with cool water.
Amla powder can be combined with a carrier oil, such as almond or coconut oil.
Conclusion
Amla powder is one of nature’s most precious gifts to humans. It can help you eliminate various body-related issues and improve your overall health if used correctly. However, when used excessively or incorrectly, the Indian gooseberry can have negative effects on the body or on the skin. Unfortunately, it is not controlled by any regulatory agencies, so its consumption is unregulated. Everyone, regardless of medical status, should follow the above consumption guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Amla helps reduce hair loss and boosts hair growth.
Yes, Amla has antioxidants that significantly improve metabolism and subsequently, facilitate weight loss.
Yes, Amla inhibits free radicals, retarding the multiplication of cancer cells.
Yes, if consumed wrongly, Amla can cause hypoglycemia, excessive blood loss, skin problems and gut issues.
Amla powder is good for patients with hyperglycemia but can be risky for people with hypoglycemia, especially when ingested with other medication.
1-2 tablespoons are enough for single use.
Yes, it can be added to various dishes when cooking.
If properly stored, Amla powder can remain usable for up to a year. It is highly recommended to store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
+ 5 sources
MIDSS adheres to strict procurement guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutes, and medical associations. We work mainly with peer-reviewed studies to ensure the accuracy of the information. We avoid the use of tertiary references. You can read about how we ensure the accuracy and timeliness of our content in our editorial process.
- Mirunalini, S. and Krishnaveni, M. (2010). Therapeutic potential of Phyllanthus emblica (amla): the ayurvedic wonder. Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology, [online] 21(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1515/jbcpp.2010.21.1.93.
- Kunchana, K., Jarisarapurin, W., Chularojmontri, L. and Wattanapitayakul, S.K. (2021). Potential Use of Amla (Phyllanthus emblica L.) Fruit Extract to Protect Skin Keratinocytes from Inflammation and Apoptosis after UVB Irradiation. Antioxidants, [online] 10(5), p.703. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10050703.
- Fujii, T., Wakaizumi, M., Ikami, T. and Saito, M. (2008). Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) extract promotes procollagen production and inhibits matrix metalloproteinase-1 in human skin fibroblasts. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, [online] 119(1), pp.53–57. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2008.05.039.
- Zhao, T., Sun, Q., Marques, M. and Witcher, M. (2015). Anticancer Properties ofPhyllanthus emblica(Indian Gooseberry). Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, [online] 2015, pp.1–7. doi:https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/950890.
- Kapoor, M.P., Suzuki, K., Derek, T., Ozeki, M. and Okubo, T. (2020). Clinical evaluation of Emblica Officinalis Gatertn (Amla) in healthy human subjects: Health benefits and safety results from a randomized, double-blind, crossover placebo-controlled study. Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, [online] 17, p.100499. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conctc.2019.100499.
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