Are you familiar with Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry? While its initial reputation may be associated with its sour and somewhat unpleasant taste, don’t let that fool you. Amla is a powerhouse of natural benefits that can significantly enhance the appearance of your skin and hair. This post will explore how Amla works its magic on skin and hair, showcasing its transformative properties.
What is Amla?
Belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family, Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is a tree native to India, China, and various tropical Asian regions. Revered for its sacred significance, Amla is prominent in Ayurvedic treatments, addressing multiple ailments. The dried and powdered berries of Amla find widespread use in numerous medicinal applications, harnessing its rich elements and properties to combat diseases and foster overall health.
Amla stands out as an abundant source of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant crucial in promoting health. Additionally, Amla contains other antioxidants such as tannin and flavonoids, effectively reducing free radicals in the blood and mitigating oxidative stress in the body. The richness of Amla extends beyond vitamin C, encompassing vital minerals and vitamins like calcium, phosphorus, iron, carotene, and the B complex, further contributing to its holistic health benefits.(1)(2)
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How Does Amla Benefit the Skin?
The vitamin C content in Amla helps boost collagen production to make your skin supple and soft. It contains antioxidants and anti-aging properties that help reduce wrinkles and facial lines. It helps tighten your skin and gives it an even tone, resulting in a more youthful look. Amla is also a natural exfoliator that can remove dead skin cells and debris. It reduces pigmentation and lightens the skin, adding radiance and brightening your face. Amla is very mild and suitable for any skin type so everyone can benefit from it (3) (4).
Trivia – Amla can boost immunity when taken with a pinch of salt. Enriched with Vitamin C, iron, calcium, phosphorous, Amla drink can be considered a complete drink.
How Should I Apply Amla to My Skin?
Amla can be applied to the skin in various ways. Here are a few standard methods that you can choose from.
1. Amla Scrub:
Mix three teaspoons of amla powder with a teaspoon of tamarind paste. Mix it well and apply it evenly over the face. Next, scrub the paste into your skin in circular motions, starting from inwards and moving outwards. Please do this in one area at a time and then leave it to dry. After 10 minutes, rinse it off with warm water and pat dry.
2. Amla Facial:
Mix equal parts of amla powder, honey, and yogurt to form a thick paste. Apply this uniformly on your skin and leave it on for about 20 minutes until it dries. Then, wash it off with warm water and pat dry. This facial can be repeated twice weekly, making your skin clean and smooth.
3. Amla Face Pack:
Create a refreshing amla face pack by boiling tea leaves in water, allowing the decoction to cool, and straining it. Combine the amla powder with the tea decoction to form a paste. Add a teaspoon of honey and mix thoroughly. Apply the paste to your face, allowing it to dry completely. Rinse with warm water and gently pat your face dry. This face pack imparts a firming effect to your skin and helps alleviate acne and other skin concerns.
4. Amla Skin Lightening Pack:
To prepare this Pack, start by mashing a few pieces of papaya. Mix water and amla powder to form a paste and add it to the papaya. Add a teaspoon of honey and mix. Apply it uniformly on your face and leave it for 15 minutes before washing it off. This paste helps reduce pigmentation and dark circles and makes your skin fairer.
Read Also – How to use Amla for Weight Loss
How Does Amla Benefit the Hair?
Amla has numerous hair benefits. Our ancestors have long used it as a remedy for hair loss, as it enhances hair growth and prevents baldness. Amla nourishes and enriches hair, strengthening its roots and making it thicker and healthier. It also provides luster to dull and dry hair. Amla also boosts hair pigmentation and can help control premature greying. It also provides a moisturizing effect to the scalp, helping prevent dandruff and other related issues.
How Should I Apply Amla to My Hair?
There are many amla hair oils available in the market. You can massage your hair regularly with any of these oils for results. You can also use amla powder to make nourishing hair packs at home.
1. Strengthening Pack:
Make a paste with two teaspoons of amla powder and two teaspoons of warm water. Add a teaspoon of yogurt and a teaspoon of honey to this paste. Apply this paste evenly on your scalp and throughout your hair strands. Allow it to stay for about 30 minutes before rinse it off thoroughly. You do not need to use shampoo after using this Pack.
2. Anti Dandruff Pack:
To prepare this Pack, mix two teaspoons of amla powder and one teaspoon of shikakai powder in a bowl. Add one teaspoon of curd and combine to form a paste. Apply this from the roots to the tips and let it soak in for about 15 minutes. Then, rinse it off with a mild shampoo. This Pack not only cures dandruff but can also care for scalp rashes. It also acts as a coloring agent by boosting the pigmentation of your hair and fights against hair loss by strengthening your roots.
Some Important Points to Keep in Mind:
- For all herbal packs, whether it is for the hair or skin, regular and consistent use is necessary to achieve results. You must use one Pack that suits your requirement for at least two months to notice a desirable outcome.
- Amla can dry out your scalp if used too often. This can result in hair fall, flaking, and dandruff. Apply Amla on your hair no more than twice a week to prevent this.
- Some people experience an allergic reaction to Amla. If you develop redness, itchiness, or any other concerning symptom, discontinue using Amla and seek professional help.
FAQs
What is Amla powder, and how is it obtained?
Amla powder, derived from Indian Gooseberry, is a finely ground form of dried amla fruit. It is obtained by drying the amla fruit and crushing it into a powder.
How does Amla powder benefit the hair?
Amla powder promotes hair health by preventing hair loss, nourishing the scalp, and enhancing hair texture. It is also believed to darken hair color and add shine.
Can Amla powder be used on all hair types?
Yes, Amla powder suits all hair types, including oily, dry, and routine. It addresses various hair concerns and promotes overall hair health.
How can Amla powder be used for hair care?
Amla powder can be used as a hair mask, mixed with other ingredients like yogurt or henna, or as an oil infusion for scalp massages. These applications help nourish the hair and improve its overall condition.
Does Amla powder have any skin benefits?
Yes, Amla powder is beneficial for the skin. Its antioxidant-rich properties reduce oxidative stress, prevent premature aging, and promote a healthy complexion.
Can Amla powder be applied directly to the skin?
Amla powder can be used as a face mask by mixing it with water or other natural ingredients. It helps cleanse, exfoliate, and rejuvenate the skin.
How often should Amla powder be used for noticeable results on hair and skin?
Frequency can vary, but for optimal results, using Amla powder for hair care once a week and for skin care 2-3 times a week is often recommended.
Does Amla powder have a natural fragrance?
Amla powder generally has a natural, earthy fragrance. Some variations may have a slightly tangy scent due to the nature of the dried amla fruit.
Can Amla powder be combined with other natural hair and skin care ingredients?
Yes, Amla powder can be combined with natural ingredients such as henna, yogurt, honey, or oils to enhance its benefits for hair and skin.
Are there any precautions or side effects associated with using Amla powder?
While Amla powder is generally safe, individuals with sensitive skin should conduct a patch test. Excessive use of hair may result in a darker hue. Consulting with a dermatologist or healthcare professional is advisable for personalized guidance.
References –
- “Phyllanthus emblica” – en.wikipedia.org
- “Chemical and antioxidant evaluation of Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis Gaertn., syn. Phyllanthus emblica L.) supplements” – pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Amla Extract for Skin: Why Derms Are Obsessed With This Antioxidant Powerhouse” – byrdie.com
- “Can You Use Amla Powder for Hair Health?” – healthline.com
