European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

AMALAKI (EMBLICA OFFICINALIS GEARTN): AN OVERVIEW ON THERAPEUTIC USES WITH SPECIAL REFERANCE TO BRIHATTRAYI

Sarvesh Kumar Bharati*, Aparna Dixit, Bhuwal Ram and Anil Kumar Singh

ABSTRACT

Ayurveda- the earliest system of health sciences believes in the intimate relationship of man and nature. Post Vedic Period is the period when Ayurveda emerged in its crystalline form as a result of discussion and serious thinking in the proceeding era. It is the Samhita period. In Samhita period, Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya were known as leading samhita in the field of medicine. These are also known as ‘Brihattrayi’ of Ayurveda. In the classics of Brihattrayi, Amalaki is widely mentioned for the treatment in many diseases in compound form. Amalaki is used in Brihattrayi as Rasayana (Rejuvenating), Vayasthapana (Age sustaining), Atisthoulya (Obesity), Prameha (Diabetes), Kustha (Skin disorder), Arsha (Hemorrhoids), Pandu (Anaemia), Netra roga (Eye disorder), Vrana (Wound) etc. The external and internal administration of the drug is prescribed in the classics as Svarasa, Lepa, Dhuma, Taila, Vasti, Kshara, Kalka, Kashaya, Ghrita, Churna, Peya, Kwatha, Gutika, Varti etc. Amalaki (Emblica officinalis Geartn), a native plant of India, is a medium-sized deciduous tree found throughout the country. The fruits are globular, fleshy, smooth and striated with yellowish-green colour. They contain an obovate-obtusely triangular six-celled nut. Traditionally, the fruit is used as astringent, cardiotonic, diuretic, laxative, liver tonic, stomachic, restorative, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, hair nourisher and digestive medicine. The present work aims to discuss formulations and therapeutic indications of Amalaki as described in Brihattrayi in chronological order.

Keywords: Amalaki, Emblica officinalis Geartn, Brihattrayi, Charaka samhita