INDIAN GOOSEBERRY

 INDIAN GOOSEBERRY

‘AMLA’, MYROBALAN, INDIAN GOOSEWBERRY “NELLI”   are some common names for this Southern Asian tree that grows to 10-12 feet , with tiny leaves and a large number of ball-like berries all over the leafy stalks. 

Botanically named  Phyllanthus emblica.

Curiously the unripe fruits are used mostly for pickles and in Ayurvedic preparations for making fine smooth dough named “Lehyam”. Domestic use is more as pickle.

Another use is –the log [wood] of the tree is used to ‘clarify’ water in wells by leaving the log in water for a couple of months. Probably the wood scavenges salts and unwanted factors conferring brackishness on to the water.

The fruits are said to be highly medicinal with ability to purify human blood. The general taste of the fruits is bitter. Fruits are rich in a variety of  Polyphenols, Tannins and Flavonoids

The bitterness of the fruit is suggested to be from Ellagi tannins containing Emblicanin-A [37%], emblicanin-B 33%, Punigluconin [14%] besides Gallic acid Ellopic acid ‘NELLIKAI” is hailed for –its potential in guarding  longevity of life [ Recall “Avvaiyaar” –Adhiyamaan proverbial dialogue]

Mere familiarity and availability of the fruit need not mean it is [unimportant]

Quite a few regional beliefs [time-tested]  make this fruit an item of great reverence in varied cultures across the country.