Amalaki is a fruit from India, coming from a tree with the scientific name Emblica officinalis or Phyllanthus emblica. This tree has a sacred status in India because, according to mythology, it originated from the love of the goddesses Lakshmi and Parvati for the gods Vishnu and Shiva. When the goddesses were on a pilgrimage together, they simultaneously felt the desire to perform a ceremony for Vishnu and Shiva. They were so moved that this desire arose at the same time that tears flowed down their cheeks and fell to the earth. At the place where their tears flowed together, a tree emerged, the Amalaki tree. The fruits that grow on this tree are very nutritious and have a special medicinal effect. That is why the tree is also called ‘Mother Earth’.
Amalaki is frequently used in Ayurveda, both as a monopreparation and in numerous herbal formulas. Ayurveda considers Amalaki as the most important Rasayana. A Rasayana is a substance that promotes rejuvenation of the tissues and prevents aging of the body. Rejuvenation or anti-aging, to use a contemporary term, has always occupied an important place in Ayurveda. Those who ensure that their tissues remain strong and healthy for as long as possible have less chance of becoming ill. In Ayurveda, a lot of attention is paid to the prevention of disease and that is why Rasayanas play an important role in this medicine.
Rejuvenating, good for the skin
Aging means that the body’s tissues break down faster than the body is able to build new cells. Amalaki contains a large number of antioxidants that prevent cell breakdown and at the same time the plant helps restore tissues through accelerated and improved formation of new cells. In addition, Amalaki is a tonic for the skin and hair. Amalaki has a cleansing effect on the body through the blood and lymph, which also has an effect on the skin, which has a beautiful structure and a radiant complexion. The hair also becomes thick, strong and healthy. In India, Amalaki has traditionally been used in cosmetic products, such as creams and shampoos.
Fruit with a lot of vitamin C
Amalaki is also a very important source of Vitamin C (478mg/100mL). Due to the presence of calcium in the fruit, it acts as a calcium ascorbate, so that a high dose of Vitamin C can be taken without disrupting the body’s pH. Ayurveda therefore recommends using Amalaki daily. There are various formulas that include Amalaki as the main ingredient, such as Chyavan Prash. This herbal mixture was already described in the Asthanga Hrdayam, one of the oldest and most important scriptures of Ayurveda.
Asthanga Hrdayam
“By taking Chyavan Prash, sage Chyavan, who was tormented by old age, became young again and attractive to his (younger) wife. It cures cough, respiratory distress, fever, TB, heart disease, gout, urine and semen disease and speech problems It supports growth in children, and gives strength to the elderly, the sick and those who are emaciated. Chyavan Prash ensures good intelligence and good memory, a beautiful appearance, good health, a long life , a downward movement of Vata dosha, well-functioning senses, strong digestion, desire for women (as in an aphrodisiac) and strength in the body, when used properly.”
Research
More and more modern studies have also shown that Amalaki has special medicinal effects.
- The immune-boosting effect of Amalaki has been demonstrated: research has shown that using Amalaki can increase the number of killer cells!
- Amalaki has a cholesterol-lowering effect, strengthens the heart and blood vessels and stimulates blood circulation.
- Amalaki regulates blood sugar levels, which makes it a suitable remedy for diabetes.
- The effect of Amalaki against stomach problems, such as gastritis and heartburn, has proven to be more effective than some regular remedies!
- Amalaki helps with joint complaints: research has shown that medication against osteoarthritis is more effective when taken in combination with Amalaki.