Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part E (2025)

Emblica officinalis, commonly known as Indian gooseberry or amla, holds a distinguished place in traditional healing systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani. Celebrated as a rejuvenating “Rasayana” in Ayurvedic medicine, amla is revered for its remarkable nutritional and therapeutic attributes. The fruit is especially rich in vitamin C and a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and phenolic substances, which contribute to its extensive pharmacological profile. Modern scientific investigations have validated many of its traditional uses, highlighting its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective activities. These properties position E. officinalis as a promising natural agent for the prevention and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. Traditionally, amla has been employed to enhance digestion, respiratory health, immunity, and overall vitality. Its adaptogenic and immunomodulatory effects are particularly noteworthy in the context of holistic health management. With a strong safety profile and centuries of documented use, amla continues to attract global interest as a valuable component of functional foods, dietary supplements, and novel therapeutic formulations. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Emblica officinalis with emphasis on its Ayurvedic heritage, phytochemical richness, and pharmacological relevance, thereby bridging traditional knowledge with contemporary biomedical research.