Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica, also known as Indian gooseberry or amla) is traditionally used in Ayurvedic and other folk medicine systems to support liver health and treat jaundice. In Ayurveda, amla is valued as a "rasayana" (rejuvenative) and believed to balance the body's doshas, support digestion, and enhance liver function. Several classical Ayurvedic texts mention its use in formulations for jaundice and other hepatic disorders. The rationale is based on its high vitamin C content, antioxidant properties, and purported ability to detoxify the liver.

However, scientific evidence supporting gooseberry’s effectiveness in treating jaundice in adults remains limited. A handful of animal studies suggest hepatoprotective effects, showing that extracts of P. emblica can protect liver cells from toxin-induced damage, reduce oxidative stress, and normalize certain liver enzymes. These findings hint at possible mechanisms relevant to jaundice, as the condition often involves liver dysfunction and oxidative damage. Human clinical trials directly assessing gooseberry for the treatment of jaundice are scarce or nonexistent, so claims are largely extrapolated from in vitro or animal research and traditional use.

In summary, the use of gooseberry for jaundice is primarily based on traditional practices, with some preclinical scientific support but a lack of robust clinical evidence in humans. As such, it should be considered a complementary rather than primary approach, pending further research.

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Nature's Sunshine Bronchial Formula (Ayurvedic)
Nature's Sunshine Skin Detox (Ayurvedic)
Nature's Sunshine Respiratory System