Amla, also known as the Indian gooseberry is a rejuvenating superfood. Its name, ‘Amla’ is derived from the Sanskrit word “amlaki”, which means “the sustainer” or prosperity. The fruit is known for its innumerable health benefits so much that, according to Ayurveda, regular consumption of amla balances all three doshas of the body- Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

Amla is also used as a remedy in many Indian households and for Ayurvedic treatments. It is a powerhouse of nutrients - polyphenols, vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, magnesium and iron. It has an incredible list of health benefits such as slowing down the aging process, increasing immunity, balancing stomach acid, fortifying the liver, controlling hair fall, reducing dandruff and supporting the heart.

Amla is one of the primary ingredients that go into the making of an ancient Ayurvedic polyherbal concoction popularly known as chyawanprash.

Adding amla in your daily diet can bring about a significant change in your health and the way you feel. So how can we incorporate amla into our daily diet? Following are few interesting and delicious ways to relish amla.

Amla Candy:

Stay fit this winter by daily having a few Amla Candy which is a sweet and sour recipe loaded with all the benefits of amla. It is prepared by sun drying  Amla pieces after sweetening the amla pieces with sugar. You can store it in containers and use throughout the year.

Amla pickle

The tangy amla pickle is another great way to ensure that you get your daily dose of amla. You can also make a sweet and sour amla pickle by adding jaggery to it. Have a spoonful of this pickle twice daily and enjoy the goodness of amla.

Amla powder:

One of the best and inexpensive ways to have Amla is in the powdered form. Mix amla powder, ginger powder and honey to fresh lime juice to create an invigorating and refreshing drink. Amla powder can also be sprinkled on fruits such as banana, apple or papaya for enhanced taste and additional health benefits. You can also consume amla powder in a small amount (1 tsp) before each meal to improve digestion.

Amla murraba:

When boiled amla pieces are doused in sugar syrup and flavoured with cardamom, they taste heavenly. Sweet can be healthy when it is done with gooseberries!

Amla  juice:

One of the easiest ways to reap the benefits of amla is to make amla juice. It helps in boosting your immunity, metabolism and prevents viral and bacterial ailments. Dilute the amla juice with water and have it after adding a dash of honey.

This winter, include amla daily in your diet and feel the difference!