Amalaki powder, or amla, is a supplement derived from the Indian gooseberry.
Amalaki powder is perhaps most widely promoted for its anti-aging properties.
This article discusses the current research on the benefits of amalaki powder and how to use it.
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What Is Amalaki Powder?
It is sold in the United States as a nutritional supplement.
In Sanskrit, the wordAmalakimeans the sustainer.
Amalaki also has anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.
Heartburn
Studies have shown amalaki may be beneficial in treating heartburn.
A 2018 study tested 68 people who had symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
A 2019 study tested 98 patients who received a 500-mg amalaki tablet or placebo twice a day.
Those who received the amalaki extract had significantly lower total cholesterol and triglycerides.
The researchers noted larger studies are needed to help confirm the effectiveness of amalaki for high cholesterol.
Diabetes
Some research has looked at the effect of amalaki on diabetes.
Age-Related Conditions
Amalaki may have anti-aging properties.
As cells divide, telomeres tend to become shorter.
They eventually become too short for the cells to divide, meaning they age rather than replicate.
Further research is needed to determine how amalaki might affect aging and age-related diseases.
Certain effects have been documented, however.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Amalaki powder is rich in fiber.
For some people, increasing fiber intake can cause bloating, stomachache, and diarrhea.
Lowered Blood Sugar
Research shows it may increase the blood sugar-lowering effect of metformin and other diabetes medications.
Medication Interactions
Amalaki is also an excellent source of vitamin C, which can interact with certain medications.
Amalaki powder is generally safe to eat but can taste bitter.
It is commonly mixed with other foods or used in candies and juice.
Amalaki supplements are typically available in a 500-milligram (mg) capsule.
As such, be skeptical of any health claims made by a manufacturer.
This certification ensures that the supplement contains the correct ingredients.
When choosing an organic supplement, look for the U.S. Department of Agriculture label that says USDA Certified Organic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Amalaki could have some protective effects on the liver, but studies are limited.
Amalaki is sometimes used in beauty products because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Food and Drug Administration.FDA 101: dietary supplements.
