Content uploaded by Harpreet Grover
Author content
All content in this area was uploaded by Harpreet Grover on Aug 11, 2021
Content may be subject to copyright.
Available via license: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Content may be subject to copyright.
65
© 2015 Journal of Oral Research and Review | Published by Wolters Kluwer - Medknow
cancer, diabetes, liver treatment, heart trouble, ulcer, anemia,
and various other diseases. Similarly, it has the application
as antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antipyretic, analgesic,
cytoprotective, antitussive, and gastroprotective. In addition,
it is useful in memory enhancing, ophthalmic disorders, and
lowering cholesterol level. It is often used in the form of
triphala, which is an herbal formulation containing fruits
of EO, Terminalia chebula, and Terminalia belerica in equal
proportions.[2] The presence of microbial contaminants may
affect the efcacy and stability of the active compounds. This
may also lead to the spoilage of traditional herbal preparations
and pharmaceutical drugs to which they are added. Further,
the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in plant materials
can precariously affect the human health.[3]
Chemical Constituents
EO primarily contains tannins, alkaloids, phenolic compounds,
amino acids, and carbohydrates. Its fruit juice contains the
highest Vitamin C (478.56 mg/100 mL). The fruit when
blended with other fruits, boosted their nutritional quality in
Therapeutic effects of amla in medicine and dentistry:
A review
Harpreet Singh Grover, Himanshu Deswal, Yogender Singh, Amit Bhardwaj
Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, SGT University, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
Address for correspondence:
Dr. Himanshu Deswal,
Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Sciences,
SGT University, Gurgaon, Haryana, India.
E-mail: deswal706@gmail.com
Access this article online
Quick Response Code:
Website:
www.jorr.org
DOI:
10.4103/2249-4987.172498
Emblica officinalis (Amla) is widely used in the Indian system of medicine and believed to increase defense against diseases. Amla is called
amalaki in Sanskrit. It is one of the oldest oriental medicines mentioned in Ayurveda as potential remedy for assorted ailments. A wide
range of phytochemical components present in amla including alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids have been shown to procure useful
biological activities. It is an ingredient of many Ayurvedic medicines and tonics as it removes excessive salivation and internal body
heat. Research has been done with amla evaluating its role as an antioxidant. Amla is useful in ulcer prevention, for diabetic patients,
and for memory effects. Amla Tonic has a hematinic and lipalytic function useful in scurvy, prevents indigestion, and controls acidity as
well as it is a natural source of anti-aging.
Key words: Alternative therapy, amla, dentistry
ABSTRACT
Introduction
Name of the Medicinal Plant: Phyllanthus emblica Linn. (syn.
Emblica ofcinalis)
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Common name: Indian gooseberry or Amla[1]
Emblica ofcinalis (EO) enjoys a hallowed position in Ayurveda
an Indian indigenous system of medicine. According to
believe in ancient Indian mythology, it is the rst tree to be
created in the universe. It belongs to family Euphorbiaceae. It is
also named as amla, Phyllanthus emblica, or Indian gooseberry.
The species is native to India and also grows in tropical
and subtropical regions including Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Sri
Lanka, South East Asia, China, and Malaysia. The fruits
of EO are widely used in the Ayurveda and are believed to
increase defense against diseases. It has its benecial role in
How to cite this article: Grover HS, Deswal H, Singh Y, Bhardwaj A.
Therapeutic effects of amla in medicine and dentistry: A review. J Oral
Res Rev 2015;7:65-8.
This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the
Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0
License, which allows others to remix, tweak, and build upon the
work non-commercially, as long as the author is credited and the
new creations are licensed under the identical terms.
For reprints contact: reprints@medknow.com
REVIEW ARTICLE
[Downloaded free from http://www.jorr.org on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, IP: 242.39.88.73]
Grover, et al.: Therapeutic effects of amla in medicine and dentistry
6666
Journal of Oral Research and Review
Vol. 7, Issue 2, | July-December 2015
terms of Vitamin C content.[4] Compounds isolated from EO
were gallic acid, ellagic acid, 1-O-galloyl-beta-D-glucose, 3,
6-di-O-galloyl-D-glucose, chebulinic acid, quercetin, chebulagic
acid, corilagin, 1, 6-di-O-galloyl beta D glucose, 3-ethylgallic
acid (3-ethoxy-4, 5-dihydroxy benzoic acid), and isostrictiniin.[5]
P. emblica also contains avonoids, kaempferol-3-O-alpha-L-(6”-
methyl)-rhamnopyranoside, and kaempferol-3-O-alpha-L-(6”-
ethyl)-rhamnopyranoside.[6] A new acylated apigenin glucoside
(apigenin-7-O-(6” - butyryl-beta-glucopyranoside) was isolated
from the methanolic extract of the leaves of P. emblica together
with the known compounds; gallic acid, methyl gallate, 1, 2, 3, 4,
6-penta-O-galloylglucose, and luteolin-4’-O-neohesperiodoside
were also reported [Tables 1 and 2].[7]
The Ayurvedic Description of Amla
The fruit has these properties using the Ayurvedic classications:
1. Rasa (taste): Sour and astringent are the most dominant, but
the fruit has ve tastes, including sweet, bitter, and pungent
2. Veerya (nature): Cooling
3. Vipaka (taste developed through digestion): Sweet
4. Guna (qualities): Light, dry
5. Doshas (effect on humors): Quietens all three doshas: Vata,
kapha, pitta, and is especially effective for pitta.
Commercially available as:
1. Amla juice
2. Chyavanaprash
3. Oil
4. Amla pickle
5. Amla murabba.[8]
Medical Implications
Healing options
a. Amla protects cells against free radical damage and provides
antioxidant protection
b. Amla is used to treat skin disorders, respiratory infections,
and premature aging
c. Amla is useful in hemorrhage, diarrhea, dysentery, and has
therapeutic value in treating diabetes
d. Amla has antibacterial and astringent properties that help
to prevent infection and help in the healing of ulcers
e. Amla is sometimes used as a laxative to relieve constipation
in piles.
Immunity booster
One reason for amla’s reputation as a general energy-promoting,
disease-preventing tonic may be its effect on the immune system.
Multiple studies have shown signicant increases in white blood
cell counts, and other measures of strengthened immunity in
rodents given amla.
Respiratory disorders
Indian gooseberry is benecial in the treatment of respiratory
disorders. It is especially valuable in tuberculosis of lungs asthma
and bronchitis.
Diabetes
This herb, due to its high Vitamin C content, is effective in
controlling diabetes. A tablespoon of its juice mixed with a cup
of bitter gourd juice, taken daily for 2 months will stimulate the
pancreas and enable is to secrete insulin, thus reducing the blood
sugar in diabetes. Diet restrictions should be strictly observed
while taking this medicine. It will also prevent eye complication
in diabetes.
Heart disorder
Indian gooseberry is considered an effective remedy for heart
disease. It tones up the functions of all the organs of the body
Table 1: Shows constituents found in
Emblica officinalis
Chemical constituents
Tannins
Alkaloids
Phenolic compounds
Amino acids
Carbohydrates
Vitamin C
Flavonoid
Ellagic acid
Chebulinic acid
Quercetin
Chebulagic acid
Emblicanin A
Gallic acid
Emblicanin B
Punigluconin
Pedunculagin
Citric acid
Ellagitannin
Trigallayl glucose
Pectin
Table 2: Shows average percentage composition of the
fruit pulp of
Emblica officinalis
Components Percentage
Moisture 81.2
Protein 0.5
Fat 0.1
Mineral matter 0.7
Fiber 3.4
Carbohydrate 14.1
Calcium 0.05
Phosphorous 0.02
Iron 1.2 mg/100 g
Nicotinic acid 0.2 mg/100 g
Vitamin C 600 mg/100 g
[Downloaded free from http://www.jorr.org on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, IP: 242.39.88.73]
Grover, et al.: Therapeutic effects of amla in medicine and dentistry
67
Journal of Oral Research and Review
Vol. 7, Issue 2, | July-December 2015
and builds up health by destroying the heterogeneous or harmful
and disease causes elements. It also renews energy.
Eye disorder
The juice of Indian gooseberry with honey is useful in preserving
eyesight. It is benecial in the treatment of conjunctivitis and
glaucoma. It reduces intraocular tension in a remarkable manner.
Juice mixed with honey can be taken twice daily for this condition.
Aging
Indian gooseberry has revitalizing effects, as it contains an
element which is very valuable in preventing aging and in
maintaining strength in old age. It improves body resistance and
protects the body against infection. It strengthens the heart, hair,
and different gland in the body.
Amla/treats hypertension
Amla is rich in Vitamin C and helps control blood pressure. You
can have it as amla choorna (powder) or in the form of triphala
tablets or decoction. Triphala, a combination of amla and two
other herbs is an excellent medication for high blood pressure.
Natural cure for anemia
Amla is rich in Vitamin C or ascorbic acid, an essential ingredient
that helps in the absorption of Iron. Supplements of amla can
be very benecial to patients suffering from Iron deciency
Anemia.[9]
Antioxidant
Nature has gifted us with defensive antioxidant mechanisms-
superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione (GSH), GSH
peroxidases, reductase, Vitamin E (tocopherols and tocotrienols),
Vitamin C, etc., along with several dietary components. Higher
consumption of components/nutrients with antioxidant
capabilities has been associated with lower frequency of numerous
human morbidities or mortalities are per many epidemiological
studies. Diverse potential applications of antioxidant/free radical
manipulations in prevention or control of disease has been
revealed by ongoing research. Natural products from dietary
components such as Indian spices and medicinal plants are
known to possess antioxidant activity.[1] The study by Poltanov et
al. investigated the chemistry and antioxidant properties of EO
fruit extracts. Extracts produced positive responses in the total
phenol, total avonoid, and total tannin assays.[10]
Excellent source of Vitamin C
Amla is the most concentrated form of Vitamin C found in the
plant kingdom, and when the whole fruit is used rather than an
active ingredient, the Vitamin C is easily assimilated by the human
body.[11,12] The Vitamin C in the amla fruit is bonded with tannins
that protect it from being destroyed by heat or light.
Enhances food absorption
The regular use of Amla-Berry can strengthen digestion,
absorption, and assimilation of food. People taking it and notice
that they enjoy the taste of food better. It enhances all thirteen
digestive res (Agni). However, it works more slowly and gently
than ginger or other digestion-enhancing herbs, so it can be taken
by people with a lot of Pitta without fear of creating excess
stomach acid. In addition, it improves assimilation of iron for
healthy blood.[8]
Balances stomach acids
It improves digestion but does not heat the body; Amla-Berry is
ideal for calming mild to moderate hyperacidity and other pitta-
related digestive problems.[8]
Nourishes the brain and mental functioning
Amla-Berry is good for the brain. It is medhya nurturing for
the mind and enhancing coordination among dhi (acquisition),
dhriti (retention), and smriti (recall). It helps sharpen the intellect
and mental functioning. It supports the nervous system and
strengthens the senses.[13,14]
Helps the urinary system
Because it enhances all the 13 agnis (digestive res) and supports
Apana Vata, Amla-Berry is especially supportive to the urinary
system and can be helpful if you experience a mild burning
sensation while urinating. It supports natural diuretic action but
does not force water from the body like diuretic pills. In other
words, it helps to eliminate waste from the body but does not
overstimulate the urinary system.
Good for the skin
Because Amla-Berry strengthens digestion, helps the liver
detoxify, and is rich in Vitamin C and other minerals, it is
very good for the complexion. Amla-Berry moisturizes the
skin, cleanses the tissues of toxins, and supports immunity
of the skin against bacterial infection. It helps to enhance
glow and luster.[8]
Promotes healthier hair
Amla-Berry boosts absorption of calcium, thus creating healthier
bones, teeth, nails, and hair. It also helps to maintain youthful hair
color and retards premature graying, and supports the strength of
the hair follicles, so there is less thinning with age. The crushed
fruits have a good effect on hair growth and prevent hair graying.
Acts as a body coolant
Although Amla-Berry is good for all doshas and seasons, it is
especially effective in the hot season to cool pitta dosha. It is
especially good rasayana for people with pitta and vata body types.
In Tibetan medicine, the fruit has been described as having a
sour taste with cooling potency.
Diarrhea
It is used medicinally for the treatment of diarrhea. As a fruit
decoction, it is mixed with sour milk and given by the natives in
cases of dysentery. The bark partakes of the astringency of the
fruit. A decoction and evaporation of the root solution produces
an astringent extract equal to catechu. An infusion of the leaves
with fenugreek seed is given for chronic diarrhea.[8]
[Downloaded free from http://www.jorr.org on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, IP: 242.39.88.73]
Grover, et al.: Therapeutic effects of amla in medicine and dentistry
6868
Journal of Oral Research and Review
Vol. 7, Issue 2, | July-December 2015
Dental Implications
Dental problems
The roots of EO (10 g) are grinded and taken twice daily for
1-day only after taking food. Alternatively, the leaves of EO
are squeezed, and the juice is extracted. This juice is put in
the ear (a few drops) to nd relief from a toothache. A nal
alternative is to grind the node of an EO and mix it with
water. After vigorous stirring, it is ltered through a cloth.
This water is put drop by drop in the right ear if the teeth on
the left-hand side are in pain and vice versa. The remedy is
continuing for 3 days.[15]
Scurvy
As an extremely rich source of Vitamin C, Indian gooseberry
is one of the best remedy for scurvy. Powder of the dry herb,
mixed with an equal quantity of sugar, can be taken in doses of
one teaspoon, thrice daily with milk.[9]
Mouth ulcers
A decoction of the leaves is used as a chemical-free bactericidal
mouthwash. Bark of the root mixed with honey is applied to
inammations of the mouth, and a decoction of the leaves is
also useful as a mouthwash in the treatment of aphthae. Another
remedy suggests root bark rubbed with honey is used in aphthous
stomatitis (an inammation of the mouth).[15]
Conclusion
EO scientically is the most widely used herb in the Ayurvedic
system of medicine. Amla has said to be useful against many
severe diseases, including diabetes, respiratory disorder, diarrhea,
heart diseases, and dental disease. Amla cleanses the mouth,
strengthens the teeth. The presence of amla results in an
enhanced cell survival, decreased free radical production, and
higher antioxidant levels. There are various classic Ayurvedic
preparations, such as Chyawanprash, in which amla is used as a
chief ingredient. It helps to improve intelligence and memory
power. Triphala and Brahma Rasayana are other classic medicine
in which amla is being used since time immemorial. Amla should
be used in various forms and preparations by dental patients for
the maintenance of oral hygiene.
Financial support and sponsorship
Nil.
Conflicts of interest
There are no conicts of interest.
References
1. Bhandari PR, Kamdod MA. Emblica ofcinalis (Amla): A review of
potential therapeutic applications. Int J Green Pharm 2012;6:257-69.
2. Khan KH. Roles of Emblica ofcinalis in medicine — A review. Bot
Res Int 2009;2:218-28.
3. Khattak KF. Proximate composition, phytochemical prole and free
radical scavenging activity of radiation processed Emblica ofcinalis.
Int Food Res J 2013;20:1125-31.
4. Jain SK, Khurdiya DS. Vitamin C enrichment of fruit juice based
ready-to-serve beverages through blending of Indian gooseberry
(Emblica ofcinalis Gaertn.) juice. Plant Foods Hum Nutr
2004;59:63-6.
5. Zhang LZ, Zhao WH, Guo YJ, Tu GZ, Lin S, Xin LG. Studies on
chemical constituents in fruits of Tibetan medicine Phyllanthus
emblica. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi 2003;28:940-3.
6. Rehman H, Yasin KA, Choudhary MA, Khaliq N, Rahman A,
Choudhary MI, et al. Studies on the chemical constituents of
Phyllanthus emblica. Nat Prod Res 2007;21:775-81.
7. El-Desouky SK, Ryu SY, Kim YK. A new cytotoxic acylated apigenin
glucoside from Phyllanthus emblica L. Nat Prod Res 2008;22:91-5.
8. Singh E, Sharma S, Pareek A, Dwivedi J, Yadav S, Sharma S.
Phytochemistry, traditional uses and cancer chemopreventive activity
of Amla (Phyllanthus emblica): The sustainer. J Appl Pharm Sci
2011;2:176-83.
9. Kumar KP, Bhowmik D, Dutta A, Yadav AP, Paswan S, Srivastava S,
et al. Recent trends in potential traditional Indian herbs Emblica
ofcinalis and its medicinal importance. J Pharmacogn Phytochem
2012;1:18-28.
10. Poltanov EA, Shikov AN, Dorman HJ, Pozharitskaya ON,
Makarov VG, Tikhonov VP, et al. Chemical and antioxidant evaluation
of Indian gooseberry (Emblica ofcinalis Gaertn. syn. Phyllanthus
emblica L.) supplements. Phytother Res 2009;23:1309-15.
11. Nisha P, Singhal RS, Pandit AB. A study on degradation kinetics of
ascorbic acid in amla (Phyllanthus emblica L.) during cooking. Int J
Food Sci Nutr 2004;55:415-22.
12. Gopalan C, Sastri BV, Balasubramaniam SC. Nutritive Value of Indian
Foods. Hyderabad, India: NIN; 1991.
13. Reddy VD, Padmavathi P, Kavitha G, Gopi S, Varadacharyulu N.
Emblica ofcinalis ameliorates alcohol-induced brain mitochondrial
dysfunction in rats. J Med Food 2011;14:62-8.
14. Vasudevan M, Parle M. Memory enhancing activity of Anwala churna
(Emblica ofcinalis Gaertn.): An Ayurvedic preparation. Physiol
Behav 2007;91:46-54.
15. Kumar A, Singh A, Dora J. Essentials perspectives for Emblica
ofcinalis. Int J Pharm Chem Sci 2012;1:11-8.
[Downloaded free from http://www.jorr.org on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, IP: 242.39.88.73]