What Is Amla Called in English, and How Is It Used for Health Benefits?

Question

I have always known Amla as a powerful Ayurvedic superfood, but I recently realized that I don’t know its name in English. What is Amla called in English, and how is it used for health benefits?

From what I understand, Amla is one of the richest sources of Vitamin C and helps in boosting immunity. How does it compare to citrus fruits like oranges in terms of Vitamin C content?

I have also heard that Amla is great for digestion and gut health. Does it help with acidity, constipation, or bloating? Should it be taken before meals or after meals for better digestive support?

Another common claim is that Amla improves hair and skin health. Some people say that drinking Amla juice helps in reducing hair fall and promotes hair growth. But is it better to consume Amla or apply it externally? Also, does it help in reducing wrinkles and improving skin tone?

Additionally, I want to know whether Amla is beneficial for diabetes and heart health. Some sources say it helps in regulating blood sugar levels and lowering cholesterol. Has anyone used Amla for these benefits?

One concern I have is whether Amla can cause acidity if taken in excess. Some people say that its sour nature may irritate the stomach—how true is this?

If anyone has personally used Amla for immunity, digestion, or skin care, please share your experience. What was the best way to take it, and how long did it take to see results?

I am looking for detailed and practical information on what Amla is called in English and how to use it for maximum health benefits. Please share any insights!

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

In Kannada, Amla (Indian Gooseberry) is commonly known as "Nellikai." It is highly valued in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its numerous health benefits, particularly for boosting immunity due to its rich Vitamin C content. In Karnataka, Amla is consumed in various forms such as fresh fruit, juice, or powder. To enhance immunity, many people prefer taking Amla juice or powder regularly, often mixed with honey or warm water.

Amla is also known to support digestion and alleviate issues like acidity, constipation, and bloating. It is typically taken either before or after meals, depending on individual preferences and needs. Consuming Amla regularly can help maintain a healthy digestive system by balancing the stomach’s acidity levels. For skin and hair health, Amla can reduce hair fall, prevent premature graying, and promote a radiant complexion. Amla oil can also be applied to the scalp for hair growth.

While Amla offers several health benefits, its sour nature can irritate the stomach if taken in excess. To avoid side effects like acidity, it’s recommended to consume Amla in moderation (1-2 Amla fruits per day or a teaspoon of powder) and consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns about acidity or digestive issues.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Amla is known as Indian Gooseberry in English, and it is a highly valued fruit in Ayurveda for its wide-ranging health benefits. It is one of the richest sources of Vitamin C, even more so than citrus fruits like oranges, which makes it excellent for boosting immunity. Amla also supports digestion by balancing acidity, reducing constipation, and alleviating bloating. It is most effective when taken on an empty stomach, preferably in powder or juice form, for digestive support. For hair and skin, Amla can be consumed internally to improve hair growth, prevent hair fall, and enhance skin tone, while external application can help reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture. Amla is also known to help regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol, making it beneficial for heart health and diabetes management. However, its sour nature can be hard on sensitive stomachs, so it is best consumed in moderation, especially for those with acidity issues. Consuming Amla regularly, either as fresh fruit, juice, or powder, can show visible results in a few weeks for boosting immunity, improving digestion, and enhancing overall vitality.

What Is Amla Called in English, and How Is It Used for Health Benefits? - #11517

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