As the winter season arrives, you will often find local vegetable and fruit vendors stocking up on Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry. Beyond its simple appearance, Amla holds incredible health benefits, particularly as a rich source of Vitamin C, according to multiple reports. Ayurvedic texts have long mentioned Amla’s efficacy in treating various ailments, and it was even referred to as a medicine that delays aging by the ancient physician Charaka, all thanks to its high Vitamin C content.
Amla doesn’t just offer health benefits; it’s also beneficial for healthy hair and skin. It is considered one of the most potent and budget-friendly ways to maintain radiant skin, shiny nails, and healthy hair. Amla plays a role in creating and maintaining collagen, which is crucial for keeping the body together, as stated by beauty expert Shahnaz Hussain.
Here are some healthy ways to incorporate Amla into your daily diet:
- Pickle/Murraba: Amla can be pickled or made into a fruit preserve known as Murraba. It can also be consumed by sprinkling salt over it.
- Chutney: Add Amla to your regular coriander chutney while grinding it into a thin paste. This not only enhances the taste but also adds nutritional value to the chutney.
- Raw Amla: Consuming raw Amla is an excellent way to boost immunity and keep flu, cold, and other viruses at bay. Amla is a potent antioxidant food and a great immunity booster due to its high Vitamin C content. It also aids in the absorption of iron and calcium from food. Additionally, Amla contains chromium, which benefits diabetics by boosting insulin secretion and regulating fasting blood sugar levels. It also acts as a liver detoxifier.
- Juice: Try a refreshing and beneficial drink by mixing Ashguard juice with a few drops of lime and Amla juice. This combination helps regulate blood glucose levels and supports weight management.
- Triphala: Combining three fruits – Haritaki, Amla, and Bibhitaki – creates Triphala, which balances energies in the body. It is an excellent source of antioxidants and Vitamin C, countering inflammation and oxidative stress.
Incorporating Amla into your diet in these various forms can enhance your overall health and well-being, making it a valuable addition to your winter eating habits.