Amla, also known as the Indian gooseberry, is a superfood that has been used in South Asian cuisine for centuries. Besides its tangy taste and fibrous inner texture, it offers a range of health benefits.
1. Rich in Vitamin C
Amla is a powerhouse of Vitamin C, one of the most potent antioxidants known to us. Just one small amla fruit contains more Vitamin C than many other fruits combined. Vitamin C is essential for boosting your immune system (helps ward off colds & flu), promoting healthy skin, and protecting against oxidative stress.
2. Improves digestion
Amla is a natural digestive aid. It helps stimulate the digestive juices, making it easier for your body to break down food and absorb nutrients. It can alleviate common digestive problems such as indigestion and bloating.
3. Improves hair health
It’s also a key ingredient in many hair care products…and for good reason too. Its high content of Vitamin C, along with essential fatty acids, nourishes hair follicles and strengthens hair from the roots. Regular consumption of amla can help prevent hair loss, premature graying, and dandruff.
4. Lowers cholesterol
Amla has been found to have a positive impact on cholesterol levels. The antioxidants in amla can reduce the buildup of plaque in your arteries, lowering the risk of heart disease.
5. Anti-inflammatory properties
Chronic inflammation is linked to various health problems, including arthritis, diabetes, and cancer. Amla possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Adding amla to your diet can give you incredible health benefits. You can consume it in various forms, such as fresh fruit, juice, or even dried amla powder. At Shana Foods, we take pride in offering you the freshest and highest-quality South Asian vegetables, including amla, a total nutritional powerhouse for your dietary needs.
How you can add it to your daily meals
- Amla Chutney: Blend fresh amla with green chilies, ginger, and a bit of salt to create a tangy and spicy chutney that pairs perfectly with snacks like samosas, pakoras, or as a side for your main meals.
- Amla Pickle: Marinate amla pieces in a mixture of spices, salt, and oil. Best served with rice, roti, or parathas.
- Amla Sabzi: Make amla sabzi, a vegetable dish, often mixed with other vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers, and blended with North Indian spices in a rich tomato gravy.
- Amla Daal: Add to various lentil dishes, such as dal, to enhance their flavor and nutritional value.
- Amla Rice: Cook amla paste or amla chutney with rice, along with spices and seasonings.