Amla/Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis)

A middle sized deciduous tree with green Globose fruits, Amla is found in the wild throughout tropical regions in India. The tree is extensively cultivated these days in many parts of India for its fruits.

Amla (a.k.a. Amlaki and Hareetaki), or Indian Gooseberry, has been given a prominent place in Ayurveda. In ancient India it was believed that Ambrosia (heavenly nectar), containing rasas (or juice), could impart immortality. Therefore, Amla is considered a "Rasayana" bestowed with anti-aging effects. Enthusiastic investigations on Amla substantiate almost all of its acclaimed properties. It has been identified to be a potent antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-stress etc. Apart from its medicinal use, it has also held an important place in traditional hair and skin care formulations for many centuries. Its cytoprotective (cellular protection) role has been investigated in detail. In Ayurveda, Amla is considered to be a nature's boon.