Indications
Emblic Myrobalan is the fruit of the Indian gooseberry tree (Phyllanthus emblica), known locally as amla or amloki. It is a common ingredient in Ayurvedic and Unani tonics such as chyawanprash-type herbal jams. It is traditionally used as a general tonic, to support appetite and digestion, for mild constipation, and to help the body during recovery from illness. It is also a natural source of vitamin C. Scientific evidence for most of these uses is limited.
How It Works
The fruit contains vitamin C, tannins and polyphenols, which act as antioxidants (substances that help protect cells from damage). Its sour, astringent compounds may stimulate digestion. How much of these effects carry over to herbal preparations depends on how the product is made.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered Ayurvedic or Unani practitioner. Herbal jams are usually taken in small spoonfuls once or twice a day, often with milk or warm water. Eating the fresh fruit as food is generally safe in normal amounts.
Interactions
Amla may have a mild effect on blood clotting and blood sugar. Take care and ask a doctor if you take blood thinners such as Warfarin, Clopidogrel or Aspirin, or medicines for diabetes. Many tonic preparations also contain sugar, honey and ghee, which matters for people with diabetes.
Contraindications
- Known allergy to amla or to any other ingredient of the preparation.
- People with diabetes should avoid sugar-rich herbal jams unless a doctor agrees.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated. Possible effects include stomach upset, acidity, loose stools and, rarely, allergic skin rash. Sugar-based tonics can raise blood sugar and add calories.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing) or any unusual bleeding or bruising.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Amla eaten as food is generally considered safe. There is not enough information on concentrated herbal preparations in pregnancy or breastfeeding, so use them only after advice from a doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
- Herbal products are not a replacement for medicines your doctor has prescribed.
- Stop taking it about 2 weeks before planned surgery, as it may affect bleeding.
- Give to children only on the advice of a doctor or registered practitioner.
- Buy from reliable sources: some poorly made herbal products have been found to contain heavy metals.
Overdose
Large amounts may cause stomach upset and diarrhoea. If a large amount has been taken, or a child has swallowed a preparation, contact a doctor.
Therapeutic Class
Ayurvedic / Unani herbal preparation (fruit tonic, antioxidant).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep the jar tightly closed and use a dry spoon. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.