Botanical Overview
Phyllanthus emblica, commonly known as Indian gooseberry, Amla, or Amalaki, belongs to the Phyllanthaceae family. It is native to the Indian subcontinent, South Asia, and parts of Southeast Asia. The primary parts used medicinally include the fruit, leaf, root, and bark.
Energetics
This plant has a cooling temperature and moistening quality with prominent astringent, bitter, and sour tastes. Its energetic actions are primarily descending and tonifying with effects on the qi.
Primary Actions
- Antioxidant
- Hepatoprotective
- Immunomodulatory
- Laxative
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
Indications
Western
- Fatigue
- Digestive disturbances
- Inflammation
- Immune deficiency
- Skin disorders
Syndromes
- Oxidative stress-related diseases
- Hepatitis
- Hyperlipidemia
TCM
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Constipation
- Weak digestion
Syndromes
- Lung heat
- Stomach yin deficiency
- Dryness in the body
Ayurveda
- Weak digestion
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Skin diseases
- Fever
- Respiratory disorders
Syndromes
- Pitta disorders
- Kapha imbalance
- Ama (toxins) accumulation
Unani
- Jaundice
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
- Weak immunity
Syndromes
- Liver diseases
- Heat disorders
Constituents & Mechanisms
Phyllanthus emblica is rich in phytochemicals such as ascorbic acid, gallic acid, ellagic acid, tannins, flavonoids, phyllembelic acid, and phyllanthin which contribute to its strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Fruit powder: 1-3 g, 1-2 times daily
- Decoction: 10-20 g dried fruit, 1-2 times daily
- Tincture (1:5, 25-50% ethanol): 5-10 mL, 1-3 times daily
- Standardized extract (10-30% tannins): 250-500 mg, 1-2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Phyllanthus emblica is generally safe when used in therapeutic doses. Caution is advised in individuals with hypoglycemia or bleeding disorders due to its potential blood sugar lowering and antiplatelet effects. Limited safety data is available for use during pregnancy and lactation; thus, caution is recommended.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers have been established for Phyllanthus emblica.
Selected References
- Phyllanthus emblica L. (Indian Gooseberry): Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology
- Phyllanthus emblica: A Valuable Source of Phytochemicals
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants: Phyllanthus emblica Linn.
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India: Phyllanthus emblica