Amla juice, also referred to as Indian gooseberry, is made from the small, fleshy fruit of the Phyllanthus emblica tree. The juice contains mostly water, along with a high concentration of vitamin C, as well as fiber and protein. It has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic, or natural, medicine. The list of possible health benefits, though still being researched, is extensive; people with diabetes, heart or liver disease, and digestive problems have seen improvement through the intake of amla juice. Indian gooseberry is also used for its beauty benefits, as it may promote healthy skin and hair and better eye function.
Many of the beneficial aspects of this fruit's juice can be attributed to the fact that it contains so much vitamin C. The ascorbic acid, as well as polyphenols, in the fruit delivers a strong dosage of antioxidants as it boosts the immune system. Amla juice is often recommended to fight off illness or to help avoid infection. The antioxidants act as more of a preventative measure, diminishing free radicals in the body that could eventually turn into cancer or other diseases.
The juice of the Indian gooseberry is also sometimes taken to treat or avoid problems with digestion ranging from diarrhea and dysentery to constipation. Some proponents of the juice as a cure-all suggest drinking a small amount of every morning to relieve indigestion and promote healthy function for the rest of the day. As the juice is fairly concentrated in taste and nutritional value, many prefer to mix it with water or other fruit juices and spices. Various recipes for the best mixers, depending on the desired effect, can be found online.
Vitamin C tends to boost strong liver function, which in turn promotes other improvements to overall health. Recent medical research on humans is close to proving the positive effect of amla juice on high cholesterol in the bloodstream. Another study has proven that diabetic rats experienced a noticeable decrease in blood glucose levels when given a daily injection of amla juice.
Those who rely on amla juice as a beauty remedy believe that it flushes toxins from the body, diminishing acne and clearing oily skin. The antioxidants in the juice may also delay the signs of aging, such as wrinkles. The fruit was once sold as a hair tonic that was supposed to improve the texture and color of hair. The proteins in amla juice may increase hair growth as well as strengthen nails.