“An amla a day keeps disease at bay!” Did you know amla, also known as the Indian gooseberry is considered a super fruit? Well, this comes as no surprise considering the nutritional benefits this berry can offer. This round, bright, yellow-green fruit derives its name from the Sanskrit word “amalaki” meaning “nectar for life” as it can protect you against countless ailments. Extracting the juice of the fruit is a simple and effective way to reap the benefits of amla. Read on to know more about amla juice, its benefits, and the best options to choose from.
What is Amla?
Amla or Phyllanthus emblica is a golf-ball-sized fruit that is sour, bitter, and sharp in taste. Amla is often used in Indian households and its flavour enhances the recipes it is added to. The best thing about amla is that it is readily available in the market and inexpensive.
Amla is a massive source of vitamin C, dietary fibre, and antioxidants. Amla is also notably high in polyphenols, alkaloids and flavonoids. A 100 g serving of amla fruit contains about 300 mg of vitamin C. It is also rich in tannins (antioxidants), gallic acid (a potent polyphenol), and pectin (an important form of dietary fibre). Due to its high acidic content, it is commonly used in preparing pickles, juices, and candies.
What are the Benefits of Amla Juice?
Having amla juice regularly is one way to squeeze in its nutrients into your daily diet.
1. Amla Juice Benefits for Hair
As per Ayurveda, amla juice, is beneficial for stimulating hair growth and reducing hair fall. It plays a role in improving blood circulation to your scalp and ensuring a proper supply of nutrients to the hair follicles. This improves hair growth and prevents hair thinning. Being a rich source of vitamin C, amla juice consumption may also promote hair growth by boosting the production of collagen (a structural protein found in your connective tissues).
2. Amla Juice Benefits for Skin
Amla juice is rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants help prevent free radical damage in the body and prevent signs of skin ageing such as wrinkles and fine lines. Amla juice also boosts collagen production, giving you bright and youthful skin. Regular consumption of amla juice prevents pigmentation and skin discolouration.
3. Other Benefits
Apart from promoting healthy skin and hair, amla juice can provide you with a range of other health benefits such as:
- Better Immunity: Due to the high vitamin C content and its antioxidant properties, amla juice may help protect your body against oxidative stress, which results from free radical damage. It is beneficial in improving your immune cell function and preventing various infections.
- Enhanced Liver Health: Amla juice may support better liver health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Lower Cholesterol Levels: Studies suggest that regular consumption of amla juice may reduce the total cholesterol levels in the body, thus lowering the risk of high blood pressure and heart diseases.
- Improved Kidney Function: Some studies have shown that amla juice may support kidney function. It may act as a diuretic that can increase the volume and frequency of urination. It thus speeds up the removal of toxins from the body along with excess water, salts, and uric acid. This helps keep your kidneys healthy and improve its function.
- Healthy Blood Sugar Levels: The glycaemic index of amla is 15, which is very low. Glycaemic index refers to a rating that determines how quickly a food item can spike your blood sugar levels after consumption. A low glycaemic index makes amla juice ideal for diabetics and those who want to keep a check on their blood sugar levels.
- Better Digestion: The soluble fibre in amla may help improve digestion and regulate bowel movements. Regular consumption of amla juice relieves symptoms of digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Which Amla Juice is Best in India?
There are several brands selling amla juices in the market these days. Some of the best amla juice brands are:
1. Kapiva Aloe + Amla Juice
This aloe and amla juice is a natural way towards better immunity. It is 100% organic and is made from the pulp of aloe vera and amla. It is free from any added flavours, oils, or other synthetic agents. Regular consumption of this aloe-amla juice helps improve your digestion, and boosts metabolism. It is thus ideal for weight loss.
The detoxifying properties of aloe vera and amla helps cleanse your system from within. This herbal juice is a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and calcium. It is also rich in antioxidants that improve your immunity and benefit your skin health.
2. Patanjali Amla Aloe Vera Juice
Patanjali Amla Aloe Vera Juice is a popular choice for those seeking health and wellness. Packed with the goodness of amla and aloe vera, this juice boosts immunity, aids digestion, and promotes glowing skin. Known as one of the best amla juice brands in India, it combines the benefits of vitamin C from amla with the hydrating properties of aloe vera, making it a perfect daily health drink. Incorporate it into your routine for a natural detox and improved overall health.
3. Baidyanath Amla Juice
Baidyanath Amla Juice stands out as one of the best amla juice brands in India, trusted for its pure and authentic formulation. This juice is loaded with amla juice benefits, including enhanced immunity, improved digestion, and better hair health. Baidyanath’s expertise in Ayurveda ensures a premium-quality product that supports natural detoxification and keeps you energetic throughout the day. Add this to your daily diet for a healthier lifestyle.
4. Kapiva Amla + Giloy Juice
Giloy and amla are both known for their antioxidant and immunity-boosting properties. This blended juice comes with several health benefits such as improving your digestion and blood pressure levels. It has detoxifying properties and also helps in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels
5. Kapiva Amla Juice
This juice that is made with wild amla as the key ingredient, is nutrient-dense and benefits your health in many ways. Due to the presence of certain compounds known as tannins (plant compounds that have antioxidant properties), amla juice makes for a great immunity booster and also promotes healthy digestion. It is also rich in vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant and protects your cells against the harmful effects of free radicals.
What is the Best Time to Drink Amla Juice?
The best time to drink amla juice is early in the morning. You can mix 2 to 4 tbsp of amla juice in a glass of water and have it first thing in the morning, at least 30 mins before breakfast.
How to Make Amla Juice at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is a powerhouse of nutrients and antioxidants. Making fresh amla juice at home is simple and ensures you get all its health benefits. Here’s how:
Ingredients:
- 5-6 fresh amlas (Indian gooseberries)
- 1-2 cups of water (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1-2 teaspoons of honey or jaggery (optional)
- A pinch of black salt (optional, for taste)
Instructions:
- Wash and Prep the Amla:
Wash the amlas thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry and cut them into small pieces, discarding the seeds. - Blend the Amla:
Add the amla pieces to a blender with 1 cup of water. Blend until it forms a smooth puree. - Strain the Juice:
Pour the blended mixture through a fine strainer or muslin cloth into a bowl. Press it with a spoon to extract as much juice as possible. - Adjust Taste (Optional):
Add honey or jaggery to sweeten the juice if needed. You can also add a pinch of black salt for a tangy twist. - Serve Fresh:
Pour the juice into a glass and enjoy it fresh. You can dilute it with more water or serve it over ice for a refreshing drink.
Tips:
- For a more potent juice, avoid diluting it too much.
- Store the juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, but fresh juice is always better.
- Drink on an empty stomach in the morning for maximum health benefits.
Enjoy the numerous amla juice benefits, including improved immunity, glowing skin, and better digestion, by making it a part of your daily routine!
Who Should Avoid Amla Juice?
Amla juice is safe when consumed in moderate quantities (2 to 4 tbsp diluted in a glass of water). However, it is best to talk to your doctor or a healthcare professional before adding amla juice to your diet, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or undergoing treatment for any medical condition.
- People with bleeding disorders such as haemophilia should avoid the consumption of amla juice. It is believed to have antiplatelet properties and may prevent blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding.
- Some studies suggest that amla can lower your blood sugar. Therefore, it is not recommended for those who have low blood sugar levels and for those who are on anti-diabetic medications, as it may lower your blood sugar levels further and lead to complications such as dizziness or fatigue.
- Similarly, the consumption of amla juice should be avoided by those who have low blood pressure or hypotension as regular consumption of amla may lower your blood pressure.
Don’t Have Time To Read?
- Amla is scientifically known as Phyllanthus emblica. Its tree has yellow-green flowers that blossom into round fruits called amla. These golf-ball-sized fruits are sour, bitter, and sharp in taste.
- Amla is a massive source of vitamin C, dietary fibre, and antioxidants. It is also notably high in polyphenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins (antioxidants), gallic acid, and pectin (a type of dietary fibre).
- Having amla juice regularly is one way to squeeze in its nutrients into your daily diet. It can benefit your body in many ways such as stimulating hair growth, reducing hair fall, and preventing the signs of ageing (wrinkles and fine lines) by boosting the production of collagen (a protein produced by our body).
- Other benefits of drinking amla juice include protecting your body against oxidative stress (cause of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, etc.), supporting better liver health, reducing the total cholesterol levels in the body, supporting kidney function, improving digestion, and regulating bowel movements.
- There are several variants of amla juices available in the market these days. You can buy it online and offline stores.
- The best time to drink amla juice is early in the morning. You can mix 2 to 4 tbsp of amla juice in a glass of water and have it first thing in the morning, at least 30 min before breakfast.
- Amla juice is safe when consumed in moderate amounts. However, it is best to talk to your doctor or a healthcare professional before adding amla juice to your diet, especially if you are on medication, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- Other conditions where consumption of amla juice should be avoided include certain bleeding disorders (such as haemophilia), low blood sugar levels, low blood pressure levels, or if you are on anti-diabetic medication.
