Gooseberry is a tart fruit high in nutrients, such as vitamin C. It has several potential health benefits, including anti-aging, antioxidant, and anti-carcinogenic properties.
People eat gooseberry in fresh or in canned form. Some people also use it as a supplement or beauty product. Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, has been linked to several health benefits.
This article discusses gooseberry and explores eight potential health benefits. In addition, it explains how to use gooseberry and looks at any safety issues.
Gooseberry is the common name for a small round edible fruit. People use gooseberry fruit to make pies, jellies, and jams. Additionally, some varieties have herbal properties, and people use the plant in alternative medicine.
There are various types from different regions, including:
- European gooseberry: A green and hairy fruit whose botanical name is Ribes grossularia var. uva-crisp. It is indigenous to Europe; northwestern Africa; and west, south, and southeast Asia. People eat European gooseberries in puddings, jams, and pies.
- American gooseberry: A green to purplish fruit that grows naturally in the northeastern and midwestern United States. People commonly plant American gooseberry in fruit or vegetable gardens, and its botanical name is Ribes hirtellum.
- Indian gooseberry (Amla or Emblic fruit): A yellowish-green fruit that grows in India, Southeast Asia, China, Iran, and Pakistan. Its botanical name is
Emblica Officinalis .
Gooseberries are nutritious fruits, low in calories and fat, and can help someone achieve their daily amount of nutrients as part of a balanced diet.
Additionally, the fiber they contain may help keep a person’s bowel movements regular, allow them to feel full, and
Gooseberries contain the following
- vitamins
- minerals
- fiber
- antioxidants such as phenols and flavonoids
Per 100 grams (g), raw gooseberries
| Nutrients | Amount (per 100g) |
|---|---|
| Fiber | 4.3 grams (g) |
| Vitamin C | 27.7 milligrams (mg) |
| Vitamin A, RAE | 15 micrograms (mcg) |
| Calories | 44 kcal |
The natural phytonutrients that gooseberries contain may be beneficial for the skin and aging.
For example, a
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Since Indian gooseberry contains vitamin C and other antioxidants, manufacturers use the extract in skin products, including creams and serums.
Gooseberries contain several antioxidant compounds,
- anthocyanins
- flavonoids
- phenolic acids
The antioxidants that gooseberries contain may play a vital role in preventing chronic diseases by counteracting oxidative stress processes in the body.
Research links oxidative stress to the development of many disorders, including:
Therefore, including gooseberries as part of a balanced diet may benefit health.
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The above study shows that Indian gooseberry has anti-inflammatory and anti-mutagenic properties. However, human research on Indian gooseberry and cancer is limited.
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In addition, the researchers concluded that ellagitannins and ellagic acid in the fruit might regulate blood processes and prevent arterial thrombosis.
Additionally, another
Scientists have used Indian gooseberry leaves, fruits, and flowers to study their effects on diabetes.
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Moreover, gooseberry may have neuroprotective effects and enhance cognitive function.
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The study researchers used Indian gooseberry in an extract with other ingredients and concluded that the combination promoted hair growth in animals. They suggest this may be a future treatment for alopecia.
People can use fresh or canned gooseberries in several ways, including:
- as fresh fruit or as part of a fruit salad
- stewed as a dessert
- to make jams and jellies
- as a pie filling
- to make wine and syrups
Additionally, retailers sell various Indian gooseberry products for health, many of which they market under the name Indian gooseberry. Products include:
- supplements
- powders
- creams for the skin and hair
Consuming gooseberries as food is generally safe. Toxicological
However, eating fruit in large quantities
If someone wishes to take a herbal remedy containing Indian or other gooseberry ingredients, they should seek advice if they have a health condition or are taking medication.
Gooseberries are a nutritious fruit containing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are low in calories and fiber-rich, helping people to manage their weight.
Scientists have studied the active compounds in gooseberries and suggested they may benefit cancer, brain function, and diabetes. In addition, people have used Indian gooseberry traditionally for healthy skin and hair.
People can add gooseberries to their diet or take them as a supplement or beauty product. However, a person should speak with a health practitioner before using herbal remedies, especially if they have a health condition.