Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica L.): An Ayurvedic Rasayana with Contemporary Pharmacological Potential

Abstract

Amalaki, commonly known as Indian gooseberry, is an important medicinal fruit extensively described in the classical literature of Ayurveda. Botanically identified as Phyllanthus emblica L., synonym Emblica officinalis Gaertn., it belongs to the family Phyllanthaceae. Ayurveda considers Amalaki one of the foremost Rasayana drugs and identifies it as an Agrya Dravya for Vayasthapana, the maintenance of youthfulness and healthy ageing. It possesses five tastes, excluding Lavana Rasa, with predominance of Amla Rasa, along with Laghu, Ruksha and Sara Gunas, Shita Virya and Madhura Vipaka. This distinctive pharmacodynamic profile enables Amalaki to pacify all three Doshas through different attributes. Classical texts recommend Amalaki for the treatment of Prameha, Jwara, Pandu, Kamala, Raktapitta, Kasa, Hikka, Vatarakta, Daha, Chardi, Shopha, and various disorders affecting the hair, eyes, and reproductive tissue. Its fruits contain tannins, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, gallic acid, ellagic acid, chebulagic acid, rutin, beta-sitosterol and ascorbic acid. Experimental and clinical studies cited in the available literature suggest antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, antihyperlipidaemic, pancreatoprotective, cardioprotective, anti-photoageing and neuropharmacological activities. This review presents the Ayurvedic pharmacology, botanical identity, therapeutic administration, phytochemistry, formulations and research evidence related to Amalaki. Although preliminary findings are promising, well-designed clinical trials, authenticated raw materials, standardised extracts and systematic pharmacovigilance are required to establish its therapeutic effectiveness for specific clinical indications.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/2394.6547.202108

How to cite this article:
Choubey A. Amalaki (Phyllanthus Emblica L.): An Ayurvedic Rasayana with Contemporary Pharmacological Potential. J Adv Res Ayur Yoga Unani Sidd Homeo. 2021;8(3&4): 15-22.