Sunday 22 March 2015

Indian Gooseberry - Health benefits

Say hello to Amla - Indian Gooseberry ! These frutis are sour, sweet, tart , pungent and fibrous. Though you may not find its taste appealing, don't be quick to dismiss it. These small fruits are packed with nutrition and have medicinal properties. Amla can be consumed in many forms like pickle, juice, chutney or best eaten raw. They can be soaked in salt water (brine) and consumed. You can sprinkle salt and chilli powder over them and eat raw.



 

I am going to list down some of the health benefits of amla that I am aware of...

Disclaimer : I am not a medical professional, nor a doctor. This home remedy has been tried and tested at my home. However , using this remedy should be 'your' personal decision. Always seek medical help when needed. 
1. Anemia : Amla is rich in Vitamin C and Iron. If you are Anemic , you can eat one raw amla a day. It helps !
2. Constipation : Amla is rich in fibre and known as natural laxative. An amla a day helps cure constipation
3. Cold and Cough : Mix 2 tablespoons of fresh amla juice with 2 tablespoons of honey. Have this mixture three times a day to treat cold and cough. Since Amla is rich in vitamin C, they help improve immunity
4. Joint pain / Arthritis : Amla contain anti inflammatory properties and helps reduce swelling in joints
3. Mouth ulcer and bad breath : Mixing fresh amla juice with water and then gargling with amla juice helps cure mouth ulcer and bad breath
4. Skin : Amla is a natural blood purifier. Take a amla everyday to have a healthier skin. It also fights against infections. It prevents wrinkles on the face. Apply dried amla powder mixed with water on your face and wash off. Your face will glow !
5. To prevent premature grey hair : Amla is believed to nourish hair and scalp and prevent premature grey hair. Heat 1/2 cup of coconut oil. Add 2 amla in the hot oil and continue to cook / fry the amla until they turn black. Switch off the flame. Remove amla from oil and discard. Cool the oil completely and store in container. Apply this oil on hair and scalp and leave it on hair for 20 minutes. Then rinse off. You will be amazed at the results.

How to eat Amla : These fruits are super sour and tart. Though there are so many ways you can eat amla - in the form of pickle, juice, mix in rice, powder, I suggest eating it raw. Raw amla taste might not be too appealing , but you can consider its medicinal values and try eating it raw. However I just love eating plain raw amla ! Yumm !
 

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