9 Side Effects Of Amla Which You Aren't Aware Of

1. Increases Bleeding

Amla is rich in vitamin C that can increase the elasticity of the blood vessels, thereby softening and dilating them which aids in improving circulation and lowering blood pressure. But, on the other side, if you have a bleeding disorder or if you are on anticoagulant medications, you should take extra caution while consuming amla and avoid having them in large amounts.

Research has found that amla could reduce platelet aggregation by 36 per cent which increases the risk of bleeding when had with other anticoagulant drugs like ibuprofen, heparin, and aspirin.

2. Damages the liver

Amla is an excellent source of antioxidants and its hepatoprotective activity is beneficial in curing liver problems. If you are consuming any ayurvedic formulation that uses amla as an ingredient, there are chances of liver problems due to the increased level of a liver enzyme called serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT).

However, amla alone cannot give liver damaging effect but, amla with ginger, Tinospora cordifolia, and Indian frankincensemay cause worsening of the liver functions in people with liver disease.

3. Causes Hyperacidity

The vitamin C content in Indian gooseberry contributes to the acidic nature of the fruit. The fruit is often eaten on an empty stomach for detoxification but this could cause acidity and may upset your stomach in turn. This is another side effect of amla.

4. Can Cause Constipation

Amla or Indian gooseberry is rich in fibre that can help in treating diarrhoea by causing gastrointestinal motility to go down. However, if eaten in excess, amla bulks up your stool and hardens it. You need to increase the water intake by consuming amla juice or dried amla powder with water to prevent constipation.

5. Impacts Blood Pressure Levels

If a person is suffering from hypertension and renal disorders, they should avoid consuming amla in the form of pickles because of the presence of salt in the pickles. Eating salt increases the amount of sodium into the bloodstream which reduces the kidney's ability to remove water. This results in high blood pressure due to the extra fluid and too much pressure on the kidneys.

6. Could Worsen Cold

As amla is a natural coolant, consuming the fruit alone or intake of amla powder can worsen the symptoms of cold and further aggravate the condition. Amla can be eaten during cold only if you take it in the form of triphala or by mixing amla powder with honey. This will work as a cure for cold and cough.

7. Can Cause Burning Sensation While Urinating

The high vitamin C content in amla is surely beneficial for health but it has side effects too if eaten in excess. A person could experience burning sensation while urinating, cloudy urine and foul-smelling urine in case you consume large amounts of amla.

8. May Cause Allergic Reactions

If you are allergic to Indian gooseberry, you might experience certain health conditions like stomach cramps or pain, vomiting, nausea, redness and swelling around the mouth, itchy skin, headaches, dizziness, light-headedness and hives on the skin and face.

9. Skin Might Lose Its Moisture

Amla possesses diuretic properties that would deprive your skin of moisture. It is essential to keep drinking water after you consume amla to keep your body hydrated. As you consume amla you will start feeling dryness of the throat which means that you need to drink plenty of water.

Share this article!