Evidence supporting the use of: Gooseberry
For the health condition: Skin (dry and/or flaky)

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Synopsis

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

Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis or Phyllanthus emblica, also known as amla) has a long-standing history in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in India, for promoting skin health, including addressing dry and flaky skin. Traditional texts describe gooseberry as a “rasayana” (rejuvenator) with properties believed to nourish and moisturize the skin, improve complexion, and delay signs of aging. It is often used in topical oils, pastes, and internal formulations to support skin hydration and overall vitality.

From a scientific standpoint, gooseberry is known for its exceptionally high vitamin C content and potent antioxidant profile, which are hypothesized to help protect skin cells from oxidative stress and support collagen synthesis. However, direct clinical evidence specifically supporting gooseberry’s efficacy in treating dry or flaky skin is limited. Laboratory and animal studies indicate anti-inflammatory and moisturizing effects of gooseberry extracts, but human studies are sparse and often of low quality. The use of gooseberry in modern skincare products is largely inspired by its traditional reputation and its recognized antioxidant properties rather than robust clinical trials.

In summary, while there is a substantial traditional basis for using gooseberry to support dry or flaky skin, scientific validation remains limited. Its use is justified more by historical and ethnobotanical evidence than by strong clinical research.

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