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Traditional
Information* |
Amla is one of the most important and
useful of the Ayurvedic Rasayanas (rejuvenative herbs). The berry is
a rich source of Vitamin C1 and other flavonoids and it has
antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. It is used to prevent
oxidative tissue damage in connective tissue disorders (RA,
osteoarthritis2, ankylosing spondylitis, CREST), atherosclerosis,
and it enhances the integrity of the bones, skin, muscles, veins,
capillaries, and arteries. Amla also helps lower cholesterol
levels3, reduces capillary fragility (varicose veins, spider veins,
and for people who bruise easily), it inhibits allergic response,
helps prevent osteoporosis, and enhances healing of fractures.
Emblica fruit is also known as an effective “blood tonic” used to
treat anemia, as it increases red blood cell counts. This versatile
herb is used to help protect the liver against toxic drugs or
chemicals4 and to protect the eyes against age related macular
degeneration and diabetic retinopathy5. Adding Amla regularly to the
diet can help to prevent damage caused by ROS (Reactive Oxygen
Species), aging and environmental pollutants, leading possibly to a
longer and healthier life. |
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Bibliography |
1
Scartezzini, P. Antognoni, F., et al, Vitamin C content and
antioxidant activity of the fruit and of the Ayurvedic preparation
of Emblica officinalis Gaertn, J Ethnopharmacol, 2006, Mar
8;104(1-2):113-8
2
Sumantran, V.M., Kulkarni, A., et al, Chondroprotective potential of
fruit extracts of Phyllanthus emblica in osteoarthritis, eCAM, 2007,
www.ecam/nem030
3 Yokozawa,
T., Kim. H.Y., et al, Amal (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) Prevents
dyslipidaemia and oxidative stress in the ageing process, Br J Nutr,
2007, Jun;97(6):1187-95
4 Tasduq,
S.A., Kaisar, P., et al, Protective Effect of a 50% Hydroalcoholic
Fruit Extract of Emblica officinalis Against Anti-Tuberculosis Drugs
Induced Liver Toxicity, Phytother Res, 2005, Mar;19(3):193-7
5 Winston,
D., Maimes, S., Adaptogens: Herbs For Strength, Stamina, and Stress
Relief, Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT, 2007 |