Abstract

AMLA (EMBLICA OFFICINALIS GAERTN) THE WONDERFUL UNANI DRUG: A REVIEW

Masuma Zaki*, Wajeeha Begum, Tabasum Ali Bhat, Heena Kausar S.

ABSTRACT

Amla (Emblica officinalis), a phytochemical reservoir of great medicinal value possesses a vast ethnomedical history. It is among the most widely used drugs of Unani (Greeco-Arab) system of medicine with amazing remedial qualities. In Unani system of medicine, it is described as a tonic for heart and brain. Because of its miraculous actions like muqawwie aza rayeesa, mufarreh wa muqawwie qalb, muqawwie bah, muqawwie chashm, musaffie akhlat etc, it is considered as a potential remedy for various ailments. It has its beneficial role in cancer, diabetes, liver diseases, heart trouble, gastric ulcer, anaemia etc. Indian mythology believes it as the first tree to be created in the universe. Amla is native to India, found wild and cultivated in all parts of India. Each and every part of the Amla tree is used medicinally. This article discusses and summarizes the important medicinal values of Amla berry(fruit) in the perspective of Unani literature as well as modern scientific research.

Keywords: Amla; Emblica officinalis; Unani medicine.