Amla
Indian Gooseberry
The herb emblica officinalis, more commonly known as ‘amlaki’ is compared to ‘dhatri’ or nursing mother because of its healing properties. Amla is considered to be the richest source of natural vitamin C with immense immune boosting and antioxidant properties and is thus a super-fruit! It is nutritive to all tissues and respected as an anti-aging and rejuvenate herb in Ayurveda. It is the main ingredient of the popular immunity enhancing jam called ‘Chyavanprash.’ According to the ancient Ayurvedic herbology text, ‘Bhavaprasha,’ amla is especially helpful for bleeding diseases and diabetes, and good for all doshas or functional body constitutions, Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The paste is used on the hair to prevent early graying and on the face to clear blemishes. If you get a chance to taste this fruit, you will be surprised: though the initial taste is sour predominant, it leaves you with a sweet after-taste which is very soothing and cool! This fruit is widely used in India to make ‘murabba,’ a delicious sweet and sour jam and to make hot and spicy Indian pickles.