Amalaki: A review on functional and pharmacological properties

Abstract

Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) (EO) has a prime position in Ayurveda- an Indian indigenous system of medicine. Amalaki belongs to the family of Euphorbiaceae and is also known as Phyllanthus emblica or Indian gooseberry. It is believed that Amalaki is the first tree to be created in the universe. Amalaki is native to India and also grows in tropical and subtropical regions of Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, South East Asia, China and Malaysia. The fruits of Amalaki are widely used in the Ayurvedic preparation and it increase defense against diseases. It has a beneficial role in degenerative diseases like cancer, diabetes, liver treatment, ulcer, anaemia, eye diseases, and heart trouble and also is an important constituent in hepatoprotective and rejuvenating formulas available.