Indian gooseberry, also known as amla, is a small, round fruit that is native to India and other parts of South Asia. The fruit is green when unripe and turns yellow or light green when ripe. It has a sour and astringent taste, and is often used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.
The fruit is rich in vitamin C, with one amla fruit containing about 20 times more vitamin C than an orange. Additionally, Indian gooseberry is high in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.
It is also a good source of other vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, calcium, and iron.
In Ayurvedic medicine, Indian gooseberry is believed to have a number of health benefits, including:
- Supporting the immune system: The high vitamin C content in amla can help boost the immune system and protect against infections.
- Improving digestion: Indian gooseberry is believed to aid digestion by increasing the production of digestive enzymes.
- Lowering blood sugar levels: Some studies have shown that consuming Indian gooseberry may help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
- Supporting healthy hair: The vitamin C and other antioxidants in Indian gooseberry can help promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss.
- Supporting healthy skin: Indian gooseberry has also traditionally been used to promote healthy, glowing skin.
Indian gooseberry is usually consumed in the form of juice, powder, or supplements. It is generally considered safe to consume, but it can cause stomach upset in some people.
It is best to consume Indian gooseberry under the supervision of a healthcare professional if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a medical condition.
In addition to its medicinal properties, Indian gooseberry is also used in cooking and as a traditional ingredient in pickles and chutneys.
Nutrition Facts About Amla(Indian Gooseberry)
The exact nutritional value of amla can vary depending on factors such as the ripeness of the fruit and how it is prepared. However, in general, amla is a good source of several essential nutrients, including:
- Vitamin C: Amla is particularly high in vitamin C, with 100 grams of the fruit providing approximately 600-700 mg of vitamin C. This is more than 10 times the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.
- Vitamin A: Amla is also a good source of vitamin A, with 100 grams of the fruit providing approximately 3000-4000 I.U
- Iron: Amla is a good source of iron, with 100 grams of the fruit providing approximately 6-7 mg.
- Calcium: Amla is a good source of calcium, with 100 grams of the fruit providing approximately 50-60 mg.
- Fiber: Amla is a good source of dietary fiber, with 100 grams of the fruit providing approximately 2-3 grams.
- Carbohydrates: Amla is a good source of carbohydrates, with 100 grams of the fruit providing approximately 8-10 grams.