Amalaki (Emblica Officinalis Gaertn.): An Integrative Review and Meta-Analysis of Classical Ayurvedic Perspectives and Modern Clinical Evidence

Amalaki (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) is recognized in Ayurveda for its broad therapeutic benefits, including hair promotion, skin nourishment, and cognitive enhancement. This integrative review and meta-analysis evaluated both classical Ayurvedic texts and modern clinical evidence, including 9 RCTs with approximately 535 participants. The findings confirmed significant improvements in lipid profiles, glycemic control, inflammation, and liver function, with reductions in LDL-C, triglycerides, VLDL-C, fasting glucose, and hs-CRP. Preclinical studies also supported benefits for liver, cognitive, skin, and hair health. Amalaki was well tolerated with no serious adverse events. The study concludes that Amalaki aligns with its Ayurvedic role as a Rasayana, showing promise across various health domains, though further long-term RCTs are needed to substantiate these traditional claims.