Amla and Its Nutritional Properties: A Review

Abstract

Emblica phyllanthus Linn. or Gaertn Emblica officinalis one of the most important medicinal plants in Indian traditional systems of medicine (Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha). It is commonly known as Indian gooseberry or Amla. It is a well-known fact that all components of amla are effective in the treatment of different diseases. Of everything, fruit is the most essential element. In the Indian system of medicine, Amla fruit is commonly used as a diuretic, laxative, liver tonic, refrigerant, stomachic, restorative, anti-pyretic, hair tonic, and preventive for ulcers and common cold, fever; as alone or in combination with other herbs. Major chemical constituents, including tannins, alkaloids, polyphenols, vitamins and minerals, were revealed in phytochemical studies on amla. Biological potency is found in gallic acid, ellagic acid, emblicanin A&B, phyllembein, quercetin and ascorbic acid. Amla studies show its analgesic, anti-tussive, antiatherogenic, adaptogenic, cardio, gastro, nephro and neuroprotective, chemopreventive, modulatory and anticancer radio and chemotherapy properties. Amla is also reported to have powerful free radical scavenging activities that are efficient in the prevention and treatment of various diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic, immunomodulatory, Diabetes, illnesses of the liver and heart. This article provides some information about amla and its nutritional properties. Keywords: Amla, neuro-protective, antiatherogenic, adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic, immunomodulatory