Poor man's apple

Amla is a rare fruit and it contains all tastes except salt. It is known as 'Sarvadhosahara', which means remover of all diseases. The unripe fruits are light green. It is also known as Indian gooseberry. This forms an important constituent for more than 300 ayurvedic products. The active ingredient of amla are gallic acid structures attached to the vitamin C. It is a cheapest and highly nutritious fruit available anywhere. It is the richest source of vitamin C and it also contains many minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin B complex, dietary fiber, antioxidants and tannin. This is a very important and popular ingredient of chyavanprash and tripala powder. The botanical name of the fruit is Emblica Officinalis. The amla tree is worshiped in India from ancient times as the 'Earth Mother'. To get the full benefit of vitamin C, the amla should be eaten raw. It can be eaten raw, mixed with other herbs or powdered form.

• Amla is rich in antioxidants hence it can protect from harmful free radicals and prevents cancer. 
• It has anti -inflammatory properties and other health benefits.It is very effective against hay fever, which causes inflammation of eyes and nose and inflammation caused by joint pain and arthritis.
• It promotes iron absorption and hence it prevents anemia.
• It is natural food for anti-aging process.
• It enhances the immune system of the body.
• It removes constipation and improves the bowl movement as it has dietary fiber.
• It prevents cataract and retinopathy in diabetic patients.
• It improves sleep and relaxes the muscles.
• It is also used for relieving stress.
• It is also useful in treating skin problems, hair problems,nausea,vaginal complaints, acidity, diabetes, asthma, cholesterol and induced arthrochlorosis.
• It has antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal property.
• It is also a skin lightener and very good tonic for body functions.
• It is widely used for curing scurvy, vitamin C deficiency.

It can eaten raw, dry, pickles, juice or with honey. If we eat an amla daily, we can live healthy without any deficiencies of nutrients.