Central to the vast science of Ayurveda is one unsuspecting, little green fruit-- no bigger than a golf ball but containing a nutritional profile that places it in a class of its own. Amalaki (emblica officinalis) grows at the base of the pristine Himalayan mountain range in northern India. It is also known by the name of Indian gooseberry. In its pantheon of thousands of fruits and herbs, Ayurveda describes amalaki as the single most important botanical for promoting cellular rejuvenation, promoting immune function, and increased vitality.
Simply stated, amalaki has one of the richest and most documented legacies of any fruit known today. In fact, amalaki has been revered as the “Nurse”, the “Great Rejuvenator”, and the “Fruit of Immortality” for centuries, due to its numerous healing properties and its ability to nourish the body on all levels. This little fruit even has its own holiday in which families share a meal under the tree, while giving thanks for the strength and luster promoted by the fruit. The science of “rejuvenation” refers to the ability of a fruit or herb to restore ones overall health, vitality, and radiance at a core level. As modern science begins to validate what ancients have known for centuries, amalaki has emerged as the world’s most rejuvenating super foods.
In addition to being heralded for its youth-promoting and rejuvenative qualities, Ayurveda describes amalaki as a potent anti-inflammatory, digestive aid, elixir for the skin and hair, and metabolic enhancer. This has been extensively validated by peer-reviewed research in the modern scientific community. Over the past 50 years, amalaki has been the subject of hundreds of scientific studies, ranging from its role in fighting cancer to its ability to increase healthy cholesterol (HDL), reduce wrinkles, and improve eyesight.
These results have posed a logical question for modern science: how could one fruit be so singularly beneficial for promoting health? In peering deep into the amalaki fruit to answer this question, modern nutritional technology has come away with some remarkable discoveries. Unlike many superfoods being introduced today, the chemical profile of amalaki cannot be limited to one star ingredient or beneficial compound. Instead, research has discovered an unparalleled spectrum of powerful anti-oxidants, polyphenols, tannins, and bioflavanoids. Amalaki also contains a high concentration of amino acids, trace minerals and other beneficial phytonutrients.
Amalaki is widely thought to contain the most concentrated natural source of Vitamin C. Vitamin C acts as an anti-oxidant and can help to rid the body of dangerous molecules called free radicals. This important vitamin is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen. Blood vessels, thendons, ligaments, and bone all require collagen. Another benefit of Vitamin C is the part it plays in helping to synthesize norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter which helps maintain brain function and mood. Vitamin C can also help to lower blood pressure, maintain healthy immune functions, promote good dental health, and aid in the healing of wounds.
The fruit is also host to rare ‘mighty- molecules’ known as ascorbigens. Part of the tannin family, ascorbigens create a protective bond around the Vitamin C molecules, making amalaki’s source of Vitamin C more bio-available and bio-stable than synthetic varieties. Another anti-oxidant found in amalaki is superoxide dismutase. SOD (superoxide dismutase) is an important enzyme that many people are often deficient in. This enzyme is important in ridding the body of free radicals. It is important to rid the body of free radicals before they have time to damage cells within the body. SOD has been shown to be important in healthy joint structure and function. It is important in the production of skin-building cells and has anti-aging benefits. Other health issues such as arthritis, prostate problems, corneal ulcers, and inflammatory bowel disease have been known to be helped by SOD. It also protects against oxidative stress.
Amalaki contains polyphenols which have anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergenic properties. They can help to lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, diminish risks of cancer, and aid in immune system health.
Quercitin is a key bioflavonoid that is found in amalaki. Quercitin aids in capillary and connective tissue health. Other benefits of this bioflavonoid are bruise, edema, varicose vein, and fragile capillary alleviation. Another benefit of quercitin is that it can relieve symptoms brought on by allergies by helping to block the production of histamines in the body. Two important tannins found in amalaki are ellagic acid and gallic acid. Ellagic acid has been shown to be effective against cancer causing chemicals and aid in the death of cancer cells. Gallic acid is another anti-oxidant and is important in helping to treat diabetes.
Amalaki is used to improve digestion and elimination and to nourish and strengthen the body. It is a natural anti-inflammatory which soothes and protects the tissues of the digestive tract. Amalaki can also cleanse the blood by stimulating the production of red blood cells. It can enhance cellular regeneration, increase lean body mass, improve eyesight, strengthen bones and teeth, and cause hair and nails to grow. May diabetics have found alternative treatment with amalaki as it helps to maintain a healthy blood sugar level.
Ayurvedic medicine, which has been around for over 5,000 years, is known to many as a complete system of health and well-being. Amalaki is central to Ayurvedic medicine to help rejuvenate and vitalize the body.
Alone, amalaki is an extremely potent fruit, however, the formulators of Zrii™ wanted to add even more healthful ingredients, to truly make Zrii™ a powerhouse for health and well-being. Along with amalaki, Zrii™ also contains schizandra, turmeric, tulsi, jujube, haritaki, and ginger.
