Amalaki (Amla) or Indian Gooseberry is a great natural source of vitamin C and one of the 3 fruits used to produce the highly revered ‘triphala’ formulation. Amla helps to manage excess pitta in the body, supporting the natural functions of the liver and the immune system
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Amla oil or churna made into a hair pack is especially good at alleviating hair loss and early greyness. It is a renowned rejuvenative and adaptogen for slowing age (vayahsthapana), increasing virility, promoting immunity and inducing balanced health (satmikarana).
Try it in tablet or powder form (1/4 - 1/2 tsp) a few times a week by taking with warm water and some honey. You can even make little amla churna balls by mixing with black sesame seeds and honey. Mix the powder with the seeds + honey (in the proportion of 1/4 cup each seeds and honey for every 3-4 tbsps powder) and roll into little balls. Store in an airtight container and take one ball each morning with some warm water. Keeps up to about 2-3 months.
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Amla relieves vata via its sour taste, pitta by its sweet taste and cold energy, and kapha by its astringent taste and dry nature, calming all three dosas. Avoid, or seek advice, if using in high kapha and ama conditions. In the cooler winter months there are some that still continue to present with ‘heatier’ conditions and using formulations containing amla can be supportive.
Please speak to a practitioner prior to using to check suitability / email if any questions
