Quick facts
| Botanical name | Phyllanthus emblica (Emblica officinalis) |
|---|---|
| Other names | Amla, Indian gooseberry |
| Part used | Fruit |
| Common forms | Fresh fruit, juice, powder, Chyawanprash (which contains sugar), murabba. |
Ayurvedic properties
Ayurveda describes every herb by its taste (rasa), qualities (guna), potency (virya), post-digestive effect (vipaka) and effect on the doshas.
| Taste (rasa) | Mainly sour; five tastes (not salty) |
|---|---|
| Qualities (guna) | Heavy, dry |
| Potency (virya) | Cooling |
| After digestion (vipaka) | Sweet |
| Effect on doshas | Balances all three; especially Pitta |
Traditional uses
- Acidity and heartburn (Amlapitta)
- Rejuvenation (Rasayana)
- Hair, eyes and skin
- Blood sugar and cholesterol
These are uses described in Ayurvedic practice; they are not all supported by clinical research.
What research shows
Very limited
Limited
Moderate
Strong
Small trials suggest it may reduce heartburn and modestly improve cholesterol and blood sugar. Larger studies are needed.
Safety
Avoid or ask a doctor first if you have:
- Bleeding disorders or before surgery — concentrated forms
- Low blood sugar
Possible interactions
- Blood thinners and antiplatelet medicines — possible added effect
- Diabetes medicines
Side effects
As food it is very safe. High doses can cause loose stools; the juice is acidic for teeth.
Stop and seek medical advice if you develop yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, a rash, or feel unwell after starting any herbal product.
Buying safely
- Buy licensed products whose label shows the manufacturer's name and address, an AYUSH licence number, batch number and expiry date.
- Prefer products that name the botanical species and the part used.
- Be wary of products promising cures, “no side effects”, or rapid results — some have been found to contain hidden steroids or other drugs.
- Tell every doctor and pharmacist about all the herbal products you take.
- Report side effects through the Ministry of Ayush pharmacovigilance programme. See our Ayurvedic medicine safety guide.
Related conditions
Amalaki (Amla) is discussed on these condition pages:
Other herbs
Ashwagandha Turmeric (Haridra) Triphala Tulsi (Holy Basil) Guduchi (Giloy) Brahmi Shatavari Neem Guggulu Kapikacchu Yashtimadhu (Liquorice)
Please note: this page is general education, not medical advice. Take herbal medicines only on the advice of a qualified practitioner who knows your health and your other medicines.