A medium to large deciduous tree with small leaves, which are closely set in pinnate passion. Leaves simple, a hundred or more on each branchlets in a symmetrically distichous manner, linear oblong or linear elliptic, slightly recurved, entire, obtuse of rounded at base, apex sub-acute or apiculate, glabrous, light green above, paler and at times puberulous beneath. The fruit is nearly spherical or globular, slightly broader than long, and with small, shallow, conical depressions at either end of its longitudinal axis, especially at the place of attachment of the stalk. Its size varies according to the variety. Normally the fruit is 18 to 25 mm wide at the middle and 15 to 20 mm along the longitudinal axis. Fruits depressed - globose, succulent, yellow or pink when ripe, obscurely 6-lobed.

Amla or Emblica Officinalis is a natural, efficacious, an antioxidant with the richest natural source of Vitamin C. The fruit contains the highest amount of Vitamin C in natural form and cytokine like substances identified as zeatin, z. riboside, z. nucleotide.Its fruit is acrid, cooling, refrigerant, diuretic and laxative. The dried fruit is useful in hemorrhage, diarrhea and dysentery.It is antibacterial and its astringent properties prevent infection and help in the healing of ulcers. It is used as a laxative to relieve constipation in piles. It is used in the treatment of leukorrhea and artherosclerosis.

Amla is highly nutritious and is an important dietary source of Vitamin C, minerals and amino acids. The edible fruit tissue contains protein concentration 3-fold and ascorbic acid concentration 160-fold compared to that of the apple. The fruit also contains considerably higher concentration of most minerals and amino acids than apples. Amla fruit ash contains chromium, 2.5 ; zinc, 4; and copper, 3 ppm. Presence of chromium is of therapeutic value in diabetes. Fruit also contains phyllemblin and curcuminoides. The fruit contained 482.14 units of superoxide dismutase/g fresh weight, and exhibited antisenescent activity. The seed oil contains 64.8% linolenic acid and closely resembles linseed oil. Not surprisingly, Amla's reputation is supported by scientific studies confirming its immunity-boosting properties. Clinical studies were conducted to investigate the effect of Amalaki in amlapitta (gastritis syndrome). Amalaki churna was given in 20 cases in a dose of 3g., thrice a day for seven days. The drug was found effective in 85 per cent of cases. Cases of hyperchlorhydria with burning sensation in abdominal and cardiac regions and epigastric pain were benefited.

ACTION: - Protects cells against free radical damage and provides antioxidant protection. - Used to treat skin disorders, respiratory infections, and premature aging. - Dried fruit useful in hemorrhage, diarrhea, dysentry, and has therapeutic value in treating diabetes. - Has anti-bacterial and astringent properties that help prevent infection and help in the healing of ulcers. - Used as a laxative to relieve constipation in piles