Amla - Nature's gift for Radiant Skin

On a bright Sunday morning in the village of Thirupullani in Tamil Nadu the tiny, curious fingers reached down to pick up a green amla fruit, freshly fallen from the old tree outside. "Nani Amma, what’s this?" asked Lila, holding the shiny, round fruit, half bitten, with a cartoonish expression that has just been affected by sourness. 

“Ah, this is Amla, or the Indian gooseberry, my child. Nature’s little sour treasure! It grows on an Indian gooseberry tree” Nani Amma begins sharing stories of amla’s magic and various amla benefits for skin- from health to beauty- and how it has been cherished in their village for generations.

Nani Amma also showed Lila the freshly kept amla pickle jars made by her and reminded her that the tangy chutneys and sweet jams that she made her eat were all made from amlas. 

What Makes Amla so Powerful, Nani Amma?

To this curious question of Lila, Nani Amma went ahead explaining all the nutritions that this little amla fruit contains; she also explained the several amla benefits for skin that she has learned from the famous Ayurvedic guruji of her village when she was young. 

1. Full of Vitamin C - First of all, it's loaded with Vitamin C- more than most fruits. The great amount of vitamin C in 1 amla shields your body, keeping you strong and your skin glowing.

2. Full of antioxidants: This little fruit is full of antioxidants, like flavonoids and polyphenols, which help keep our bodies free from harm and help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, like tiny warriors.

3. Vitamins- Amla also has vitamins A, E, and K, plus a bunch of B vitamins. All of these work together to keep you healthy, inside and out.

4. Minerals- Amla’s got minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and iron, too- perfect for your bones and blood. It's nature's multivitamin!

5. Dietary Fiber- This fruit helps your tummy stay happy and your weight in check as it is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps manage weight.

Amla: From the Eyes of Ayurveda

Amidst the long talks between Lila and Nani Amma about nature's cherished treasure, Nani Amma reminisced about sitting under the tree, learning about amla from the village's most revered Ayurvedic guru who explained, 

“Let me share with you the historical wisdom of our ancestors. In the sacred texts of Ayurveda, Amla, known as Amlaki, is admired as a jewel of nature—a nature’s offering to humanity. This sacred fruit is not merely a healer but a protector, a shield for the body and soul. Modern science, in its pursuit of ancient truths, has affirmed what our rishis knew: Amlaki is a potent antioxidant, a regulator of immunity, a soother of stress, and so much more. Its blessings extend beyond the realm of medicine, embracing our hair and skin with luster and strength, as it has for centuries in traditional formulations.

Yet, its power does not end here. Amlaki's role in safeguarding our cells, its cytoprotective gifts, has been studied in great depth. Truly, this fruit is a treasure from nature; embrace it, and let its essence nourish not just your body but your spirit as well.

1. Amla strengthens your immune system, making you feel invincible, like a shield against illness.

2. Rich in Vitamin C, amla keeps your skin glowing and youthful, like a natural fountain of youth.

3. It detoxifies the body, flushing out the toxins and leaving you refreshed, like a clean stream of water.

4. Amla helps balance your digestive system, easing discomfort and keeping you light on your feet.

5. It’s a natural hair tonic, promoting strong, thick hair, just like a strong rope that you can trust would not break.

6. Amla nurtures your heart, keeping it strong and healthy. It supports the cardiovascular system. like a protective embrace from within.

7. With its antioxidant power, amla keeps aging at bay, ensuring you shine and age gracefully, no matter your age

What are the Amla benefits for Skin, Nani Amma?

Little Lila was growing more and more eager to learn about this wonderful green gem with several health advantages. With curiosity shining in her eyes, she wanted Nani Amma to elaborate on the countless Amla benefits for skin and so did Nani Amma-

1. It's a natural skin brightener

If you make use of amla regularly, your skin will glow radiantly. Remember that amla has natural antioxidants? That is exactly what helps it fight free radicals, making your skin look brighter and more even-toned.

2. It rescues you from anti-aging

Amla, aka Indian gooseberry, is like nature’s little secret weapon for your skin. Packed with phytonutrients which are compounds produced by plants that provide health benefits to the body, this tiny fruit brings big benefits, especially when it comes to skin and aging.

A 2016 laboratory study highlighted amla’s impressive benefits, showcasing its antioxidant properties and its ability to inhibit elastase and collagenase- enzymes that contribute to wrinkle formation and skin aging. In short, amla supports your skin’s youthful glow while helping to keep those fine lines at bay.

3. It will checkmate all your pimple and acne

What happens when you consume amla juice? Amla juice will turn the tables for you- one of the best drinks for acne pop-ups. Whom do the benefits go to? Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Applying diluted amla juice topically helps calm redness, reduce inflammation, and fight acne-causing bacteria, while its rich Vitamin C content aids in fading scars and improving skin texture. Drinking amla juice regularly works from within by purifying the blood and flushing out toxins that trigger breakouts, promoting clear, radiant skin. It even helps control excess oil production, reducing clogged pores and preventing future flare-ups- a complete acne solution in one!

4. Hydrates and moisturizes—quenched skin!

Amla will not let your skin feel thirsty- it is like a hydration boost for your skin; all credit goes to its natural oils. It works wonders by locking in moisture and preventing dryness and flakiness. No more tight, dehydrated skin- just soft, smooth, and supple skin that feels bouncy every day. 

5. Improves Skin Texture

You were not expecting this right? Amla’s exfoliating magic is real. It helps shed those dead skin cells, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath. Plus, it tackles dark spots and pigmentation, leaving you with a more even skin tone and a smoother texture. It’s like hitting reset for your skin!

6. Natural Detoxifier

Drinking amla juice or using it in your skincare routine is like giving your body a detox cleanse. It helps flush out toxins that make your skin look dull and tired. The result? Clearer, fresher skin that radiates health from the inside out.

7. Sun Damage Protection

Amla’s antioxidants are your skin’s best defense against the sun. They protect your skin from those harsh UV rays, repair sun damage, and even help prevent tanning and dark spots. It's like giving your skin an invisible shield while you enjoy the sun!

8. Enhances skin health

Amla is like a skincare powerhouse packed with antioxidants that fight oxidative stress, one of the main culprits behind skin aging. Consume it regularly, and you'll notice a reduction in wrinkles, fine lines, and that biggest enemy age spots, giving your skin a youthful, radiant glow. Plus, the high Vitamin C content in amla is fantastic for boosting collagen production- key for keeping your skin firm, bouncy, and full of elasticity. It's your go-to for looking younger, longer!

While chatting with her Nani Amma, Lila learned about the incredible amla benefits for skin. Intrigued by these age-old secrets, Lila decided to give amla a place in her life.

But How do I use Amla for Skincare, Nani Amma?

Lila wanted to know it all, so after the long list of amla benefits for skin, Nani Amma carefully listed all the ways in which this little fruit could be used-

1. Amla Face Mask- Combine amla powder with honey or yogurt, and apply this ancient blend to your face. Allow it to rest upon your skin as a gentle breeze, nourishing and brightening, leaving you with a glow that mirrors the sun’s first light at dawn.

2. Amla Toner- Steep dried amla in water overnight, then strain the liquid. Use this infusion as a toner, cleansing your skin and restoring balance, as the earth itself refreshes the soul.

3. Amla Oil Massage- Massage amla oil into your skin, particularly on dry areas, and feel the soothing touch of nature. It brings hydration, smoothness, and a softness that echoes the touch of a warm breeze.

4. Amla in Bath- Place amla powder in your bath water, and let your body soak in its rejuvenating qualities. The vitamins and antioxidants will nourish your skin, leaving it feeling renewed and glowing with vitality.

5. Amla Scrub: Mix amla powder with a pinch of sugar and coconut oil to create a gentle scrub. Massage it into your skin, and watch as dead cells are gently removed, leaving your skin radiant and refreshed, like a leaf after a refreshing rain.

Products containing Amla

1. Amla Face Creams- With the touch of amla, these face creams shower your skin with hydration, imparting a natural radiance that speaks of youth’s spirit. Let it nurture and protect, as the fruit protects the soul from within.

2. Amla Hair Oil- Like the ancient hermits who knew the secret spells of nature’s power, this oil with amla reaches and nourishes the roots of your hair, bringing strength, shine, and bounce. Use it, and let your hair grow as strong as the roots of a sacred tree.

3. Amla Shampoo-  In the gentle touch of amla-infused shampoo, you shall find cleansing and renewal. It strengthens each strand, leaving your hair soft, flowing, and nourished by the very essence of life itself.

4. Amla Serums- In these potent serums, the concentrated essence of amla works to restore your skin’s natural harmony. Apply, and let it heal, smooth, and brighten, like the moonlight cleansing the night sky.

5. Amla Powder- The purity of amla powder can be woven into your rituals- mix it with water for a mask, add it to your meals, or consume it for internal balance. In this humble form, you shall find rejuvenation for body and spirit.

6. Amla Soap- Let this sacred soap cleanse not just your skin, but your spirit as well. As it lathers upon your skin, it removes the impurities, leaving your body and mind refreshed and revived.

7. Amla Juice- Drink deep from the cup of amla juice, and feel its power course through you. A daily offering of vitality, fortifying your health and imbuing your body with the strength of the earth itself.

8. Amla Capsules/Tablets- For those seeking simplicity in their journey of wellness, the amla capsule is a potent vessel, carrying the wisdom of the fruit in each pill. A daily dose is all that is needed to maintain balance and vitality.

9. Amla Face Mask- In the mask, the power of amla is focused, working directly on the skin to cleanse, renew, and restore. Use it, and feel your skin breathe once again, as if touched by the hands of nature’s eternal wisdom.

Try Nani Amma’s Amla Nuskha (DIY)

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon amla powder
• 1 tablespoon yogurt (plain and unsweetened)
• 1 teaspoon honey

Method:

1. In a bowl, mix the three.
2. Apply it to your clean face and neck.
3. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, let the magic happen.
4. Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry.

The Closing Note

So, did Nani Amma’s wisdom about the magical amla leave you inspired? One might wonder how a small fruit could take care of all that from glowing skin, healthy hair, or overall health. Well that’s the magical spell of nature. Amla is a superhero. And just like Nani Amma said. Now, it’s your chance to embrace these ancient, timeless secrets and let this humble green little fruit work its wonders in your life. Ready to make an amla chutney in the morning?

Recommended Products by Blue Nectar:

Vitamin C Face Serum for Radiant & Spotless Skin (9 Herbs, 30ml)

Triphaladi Ayurvedic Slimming and Anti Cellulite Fat Loss Massage Oil (11 herbs)

Briganantadi Shikakai Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | Itch Free & Healthy Scalp

Bhringraj Hairfall Control Oil for Healthy Scalp(10 Herbs)

Green Tea Hair Mask for Dry & Frizzy Hair with Plant Based Biotin (13 herbs, 200g)

Related Articles:

Nani Ke Nuskhe - Home Remedies Your Nani Approves

References:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26912420/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/279771

https://www.dabur.com/ayurveda/ayurvedic-medicinal-plants/amla

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cytoprotection

https://mapi.com/blogs/articles/amla-berry-a-divine-ayurvedic-supplement?srsltid=AfmBOopQ-q