Menstruation is different for every woman. While for some it is absolutely smooth and hassle-free, for others it can be a difficult time with symptoms like nausea, cramps, and heavy blood flow. But there are also some women who struggle with irregular periods, which can be due to many reasons such as hormonal imbalances, certain diseases or underlying conditions, and even medications. While there are many ways to manage the same, once the cause is identified, we did not know about amla as a remedy.
As such, we were intrigued by dietitian Suman Gupta’s claim that amla helps regularise periods. Taking to Instagram, she wrote: “They are not just delicious to eat but also aid in reducing period pain. Fruits like oranges and Indian gooseberry or amla are loaded with vitamin C which boosts immunity and makes the body stronger to fight against pain and fatigue.”
She added that having amla regularly brings the menstrual cycle back to normal. “Amla juice is known to cure hormonal balance,” she continued.
As such, we reached out to experts to understand whether there is any truth to the claim.
Rich in multiple vitamins like C, B1, B2, B5 and B6, and minerals like calcium and iron, amla helps in maintaining the overall health and well being of the body, said experts.
Dr Santosh Pandey, naturopath and acupuncturist, Rejua Energy Centre, Mumbai agreed and said that amla is an excellent Ayurvedic herb to maintain hormonal balance, which results in healthy and regular menstrual cycle.
“It strengthens the uterus and improves women’s fertility. Amla can help in flushing toxins from the body during the menstrual cycles. Rich in iron, it is beneficial for girls who have a difficult time before their periods or experience premenstrual syndrome. Regular intake can reduce period pain,” Dr Pandey told indianexpress.com.
According to DT Sushma PS, Chief Dietician, Jindal Naturecure Institute, Bangalore, it also helps to regulate Apana Vata (downward flow) which helps strengthen the uterus. “It is quite useful for treating irregular periods and severe menstrual cramps,” said Sushma.
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Irregular periods can wreak havoc on one’s health (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
While modern allopathy has very few direct references to the use of amla in aiding menstrual regulation, ancient texts in Ayurveda recommend amla for improving fertility in women, said Dr Rujul Jhaveri, consultant gynaecologist, NH SRCC Children’s Hospital.
“The effect of amla and its medicinal properties are known for improving hair and skin quality, metabolism, flushing out toxins, regulating the menstrual cycle and restoring hormonal balance. It also helps fight the negative effects of PCOS, like obesity,” said Dr Jhaveri.
How should it be consumed?
Sushma advised that if one frequently has period discomfort or irregular periods, it is advised to have it as a juice. “There are various ways to include amla in your diet. You can start your day with warm water with one teaspoon of amla powder and honey. You can also consume amla juice and amla candy to maintain your overall health,” said Sushma.
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