Amla: The Ultimate Superfood For Health, Hair And Skin

Amla has been used for various remedies for at least 1,000 years and may help in improving your overall health. (Image: Shutterstock)

Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is a fruit revered in Ayurveda for its numerous health benefits and culinary versatility. Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants and other nutrients, amla offers a wide range of advantages for overall well-being. Amla is truly a superfood with a plethora of health benefits and culinary uses.

By incorporating this powerhouse fruit into your diet in creative ways, you can enhance your health and well-being while enjoying its delicious flavour. Let’s dig deeper into the benefits of amla and explore five creative ways to consume it, along with suggestions on what foods you can pair it with to enhance your diet.

Health benefits of Amla:

1. Boosts immunity:

   Amla is a rich source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections and diseases.

2. Improves digestion:

   Consuming amla regularly can aid in digestion, relieve constipation and promote a healthy digestive system.

3. Enhances skin health:

   The antioxidants in amla help fight free radicals, reducing skin damage and promoting a healthy, glowing complexion.

4. Regulates blood sugar levels:

   Amla contains compounds that help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes.

5. Promotes hair health:

   Amla is known to nourish the hair follicles, strengthen the hair roots, and prevent premature greying, promoting healthy and lustrous hair.

Ways to Consume Amla:

• Amla juice:

  Blend fresh amla with water to make a refreshing and nutritious juice. You can add a dash of honey or jaggery for sweetness.

• Amla chutney:

  Grind amla with mint, coriander, green chillies, and spices to make a tangy and flavourful chutney that pairs well with snacks and meals.

• Amla candy:

  Coat pieces of amla in sugar syrup and dry them to make delicious and healthy candy that can be enjoyed as a snack.

• Amla pickle:

  Make a spicy and tangy pickle by marinating amla pieces in salt, spices, and oil. It can be served as a side dish with meals.

• Amla powder:

  Dry amla pieces and grind them to a fine powder. You can add this powder to your smoothies, yoghurt or cereal for a nutritious boost.

What to Add Amla to:

1. Smoothies:

   Add amla juice or powder to your favourite smoothie recipes for an added nutrient boost.

2. Salads:

   Grate or chop fresh amla and add it to salads for a tangy and nutritious twist.

3. Curries:

   Include amla pieces in vegetable or meat curries to enhance the flavour and nutritional value of the dish.

4. Rice dishes:

   Mix chopped amla into cooked rice for a flavourful and nutritious side dish.

5. Desserts:

   Use amla juice or powder to flavour desserts like ice cream, pudding, or sorbet for a unique and healthy treat.

So, why not add Amla to your grocery list and reap the rewards of this amazing fruit?