benefits of gooseberry

Benefits of Gooseberry

1. What is Gooseberry
Gooseberry known as Amla is among the healthiest food due to its high nutrient content. It is rich source of antioxidants, iron, vitamin A, C, fiber, potassium, magnesium, calcium, etc. So it highly proves beneficial to health. It is effective to prevent cancer or tumor cell growth. It improves eye health, improves hair luster, skin, anemia, etc.
2. Amla is a deciduous tree
Amla is a deciduous tree that grows up to 20 to 30 feet high. Its botanical name is Phyllanthus emblica or Emblica officinalis. The tree is usually found in India and Nepal and this is why it is often referred to as the Indian or Nepalese gooseberry.The word amla is derived from the Sanskrit word amlaki . The tree is best known for its round, small and green fruit. The fruit has a sour and bitter taste. Except for the seed, all parts of the amla fruit are edible.
3. Importance of Amla in Ayurveda
According to Ayurveda, regular consumption of amla balances all three doshas, that is, vata, pitta, and kapha. Its cooling properties balance both vata and pitta, whereas its drying properties have a balancing effect on the kapha dosha. In ancient Ayurveda practice, amla is used for promoting longevity, improving digestion, purifying blood, strengthening the heart, stimulating hair growth, enhancing concentration and memory, and alleviating respiratory problems.
4. Historical Uses
Ancient cultures have prescribed Indian gooseberries for many conditions. People with mild to moderate conditions such as upset stomach, fever or the common cold may find relief from consuming dried gooseberry powder. It can also work as a diuretic or laxative too.Gooseberries have also been used for serious conditions such as cancer, pancreatitis, hepatitis, and immune system disorders. People also take gooseberry supplements for cancer prevention.
5. Preservation of Amla Juice
To preserve amla juice, ensure that the quantity of the juice is equal to the capacity of the jar. For instance, 500 grams of amla juice should be stored in a 500 grams capacity glass or a plastic container. Add 2 tablespoons of sodium lactate and mix well. This juice can be preserved in the refrigerator for 8 to 10 months. Sodium lactate is easily available at a chemist or any store that sells food chemicals.
6. Advertisement
Indian gooseberry is a treasure trove of several nutrient elements, which are essential in keeping you hale and hearty. Besides numerous health benefits, it encloses myriad beauty benefits too. Also recognized as amla, Indian gooseberry is particularly known for its good effects on hair and skin. Youll find amla in most of the skin and hair products. Here are a few benefits of Indian gooseberry for adding charm to your beauty.
7. Lightens the Complexion
Amla has vitamin C and antioxidants, which bring a natural glow to your skin and lightens the complexion. If you drink amla juice with honey every day, youll see the results very soon. Amla can also be applied on the face by mixing it in a face pack or simply washing the face with a gooseberry based wash.
8. Anti ageing Effects
Regular intake of gooseberry as juice or powder has anti ageing benefits as well. It makes your skin look and feel youthful. It also diminishes the wrinkles and fine lines that make way on your skin with age. Amla has an important effect on our cardiovascular system which promotes strength to the heart muscles controlling hypertension. It is also very effective on lowering the cholesterol levels.
9. Exfoliating and Cleansing Agent
With an abundance of antioxidants, amla is a great cleansing agent for the skin. Whether used as a face pack or a wash, Indian gooseberry is great in exfoliating the skin. If you have sensitive skin, consider diluting it with water or honey.
10. Reduces Pigmentation
Amla is also known for reducing pigmentation. However, it requires regular use to see the results. Apart from drinking amla juice, you can also use it on your face with a cotton ball and rinse off in a few minutes. There are various face packs that can be made with the help of Indian gooseberry.