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Healthy, clean eating has become a part and parcel of our diet. We no longer look for exotic or expensive ingredients as we are rediscovering the treasures of locally-produced, seasonal foods. Farm-fresh fruits, home-grown herbs and organic spices are all making a comeback in our diets. Even the Indian gooseberry (or Amla) is one such food that has long been recommended by our grandmothers and forefathers and is now once again finding its way into the daily diet. But what is it about Amla that makes it a superfood in its own right? Is it really beneficial for us and how do we consume it? Here's all you need to know.

A tiny green fruit bursting with flavours, Amla is packed with nutrients. It has been part of the ancient medicinal practice and is also used to make pickles, candies and amla powder, known as Amalaki. But what are the ways in which Amla can benefit our health?

Amla is a rich source of Vitamin C that can provide a boost to immune health. A single serving of Amla can make for up to 46% of the daily requirement of Vitamin C. "Amla is a special fruit full of antioxidants that are effective in reducing cell damage which reduces the free radicals that can cause disease in the body", says Dr Komal Bhadouria, Nutritionist, SCI International Hospital, New Delhi.

Not only is Amla filled with Vitamin C, but it also has plenty of fibre in it. The soluble fibre in Amla dissolves quickly in the body and helps provide relief from ailments like constipation, acidity and stomach ulcers. Dr Bhadouria suggests that it also helps reduce acid levels in the stomach and fights inflammation as well.

Also Read: Amla For Immunity: Homemade Amla Candy Recipe And Health Benefits Of Amla

Amla powder can be added to vegetables or sprinkled on salads. Photo Credit: iStock

Amla powder, or even amla fruit in general, can help reduce the risk of heart disease as it lowers the build-up of bad cholesterol in the body. Amla also removes unwanted toxins from the body and makes blood vessels thicker and stronger. Amla powder, when consumed with honey, can act as a blood purifier and increase haemoglobin naturally. So, consume amla for a healthy, happy heart!

The reasons to consume amla are manifold and one of these is that it prevents blood spikes and has a positive effect on blood glucose levels. The good quantity of soluble fibre in amla means that food is absorbed slowly by the body, thus preventing any blood level spikes.

Amla oil has been part of our hair care regime for ages, and there is actually a scientific basis to it. Amla helps prevent dandruff and also prevents hair loss and regulates hairfall. It can be consumed directly or used in topical applications. According to Delhi-based weight management expert, Gargi Sharma, "Amla can be used to prepare home remedies for curing various conditions such as cold and cough, mouth ulcers, dandruff and more."

Also Read: Amla For Skin: How To Use The Ayurvedic Superfood For a Beautiful and Glowing Skin

Amla juice can prove to be an excellent remedy for hair and skin. Photo: iStock

Thanks to the abundance of Vitamin C in Amla, it is an excellent ingredient to add to your skincare regime as it helps in the production of collagen. The Indian gooseberry slows down the ageing process and also helps maintain beautiful, supple skin. Consume it every day and see the difference!

Vitamin C is the most prominent Vitamin in amla. A single 100-gram serving contains up to 300mg of Vitamin C. It also contains Vitamin E, A, iron and calcium.

There are many different ways in which you can include amla in your diet. Whether you chop it along with vegetables in your salad, add it to your dal tadka or squeeze it instead of lemon juice, the options are plenty. You can also make a tangy and wholesome amla juice and add honey to it and enjoy. Amla can also be used to prepare chutney which makes for an excellent pairing with your meals. For more ways to include amla in your diet, click here.

About Aditi AhujaAditi loves talking to and meeting like-minded foodies (especially the kind who like veg momos). Plus points if you get her bad jokes and sitcom references, or if you recommend a new place to eat at.