Indian Gooseberry (Amla)

Phyllanthus emblica L.

Family: Phyllanthaceae Part Used: Fruit Evidence-Based

📝 Common Names (6 Languages)

EnglishIndian Gooseberry (Amla)
Hindiआंवला (Amla)
Urduآملہ (Amla)
Arabicأملا الهندية (Amla Al-Hindiya)
FrenchGroseille indienne
SpanishGrosella espinosa india

✅ Evidence-Based Benefits

Exceptionally rich in vitamin C (20 times orange) and antioxidants. Double-blind RCT showed significant reduction in total cholesterol (-15.5%) and LDL cholesterol (-25.0%) with 500mg twice daily over 12 weeks (PMID: 22529877). Improves dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis markers. Systematic review confirms antioxidant capacity superior to many fruits (PMID: 21495900). Traditional Ayurvedic rasayana (rejuvenative) with immunomodulatory effects.

📚 Key Citations:

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🔬 Clinical Trials & Evidence

⚕️ Evidence-Based Research: Clinical trials provide the highest level of evidence for herbal efficacy and safety. The trials listed below represent peer-reviewed research registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. Each trial includes detailed protocols, patient populations, interventions tested, and measurable outcomes. Click links to access full trial details and published results.

RCT: 98 subjects, 12 weeks, significant lipid reduction

Systematic review: Antioxidant and therapeutic potential

💊 Drug Interactions

Important: Always inform your healthcare provider about all herbs and supplements you are taking.

Anticoagulants (Warfarin)

Effect: Theoretical increased bleeding risk due to vitamin C content

Mechanism: High vitamin C may affect platelet function

Action: Monitor INR if using high doses (>2g/day). Clinical significance unclear.

Antidiabetic Medications

Effect: May enhance glucose-lowering effects

Mechanism: Improves insulin sensitivity

Action: Monitor blood glucose levels. May allow medication dose reduction.

Evidence: Animal studies and preliminary clinical data

Iron Supplements

Effect: Enhances iron absorption (beneficial)

Mechanism: Vitamin C increases non-heme iron absorption

Action: Beneficial in iron deficiency anemia. Monitor in hemochromatosis.

Cholesterol Medications (Statins)

Effect: Additive lipid-lowering effects

Action: May be synergistic. Monitor lipid panel.

⚠️ Safety Information

Adverse Events

Generally safe with excellent tolerability. Mild gastrointestinal upset at very high doses (>3g/day) in <5% users. May theoretically enhance anticoagulant effects. No serious adverse events in clinical trials.

⛔ Contraindications

Caution with anticoagulants (theoretical interaction). Monitor blood glucose in diabetics. May increase iron absorption (beneficial in anemia, monitor in hemochromatosis). Safe in pregnancy at food amounts.

🧬 Mechanism of Action

High ascorbic acid content (445-1330 mg/100g) and polyphenols (gallic acid, ellagic acid, corilagin) provide potent antioxidant effects. Modulates lipid metabolism via HMG-CoA reductase inhibition. Hepatoprotective via Nrf2 pathway activation.

💊 Dosage & Administration

500-1000mg standardized extract (40% tannins) twice daily with meals. Traditional: 1-3g dried fruit powder daily or 10-20ml fresh juice. Component of Chyawanprash (1-2 teaspoons daily). Effects seen after 4-8 weeks.

⚕️ Note: Consult healthcare provider for appropriate dosing, especially if taking medications.

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Data Retrieval: November 29, 2025 | Compiled by: Sheraz Ahmed

License: CC BY-SA 4.0

Citation: Ahmed, S. (2025). Medicinal Herbs Database. Clinical Corner. https://welovelmc.com/medical-tools.htm

⚕️ Medical Disclaimer

FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY: This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

⚠️ Important Warnings:

🔬 Evidence Limitations: While this database includes peer-reviewed research and clinical trial data, individual results may vary. Drug interactions and contraindications are based on current research and may change as new evidence emerges.

⚖️ Liability: The author, compiler (Sheraz Ahmed), and publisher disclaim any liability arising from the use or misuse of information contained in this database. This is not medical advice.