Abstract

AMALAKI (EMBLICA OFFICINALIS GAERTN.): AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS OF CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVES AND MODERN CLINICAL EVIDENCE

*Dr. Varuna Vishwakarma

Abstract

Background: Amalaki (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.), venerated in Ayurveda as Dhatri-phala, is a premier Rasayana described as tridosha-prasamana, keshya (hair-promoting), cakshushya (eye tonic), twacya (skin nourishing), and medhya (cognitive enhancer). Beyond its traditional use in formulations such as Triphala and Chavanaprasha, modern research highlights antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, metabolic, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective actions. While several systematic reviews have evaluated cardiometabolic effects, a comprehensive synthesis integrating classical wisdom with modern evidence across multiple domains is still lacking. Objective: To critically appraise classical Ayurvedic references and systematically review modern experimental and clinical studies on Amalaki, with meta-analysis of RCT-backed outcomes and narrative synthesis of broader therapeutic domains. Methods: Electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library) were searched up to September 2025. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in quantitative pooling of lipid, glycemic, inflammatory, and hepatic outcomes. Animal and in-vitro studies, along with observational data, were narratively analyzed to provide mechanistic insights and explore domains such as hair, skin, ocular, cognitive, and respiratory health. Classical references were drawn from Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashṭanga Hrudaya, and Bhavaprakasha Nighanṭu. Results: Nine RCTs (n≈535) and two meta-analyses confirmed significant reductions in LDL-C (~−15 mg/dL), triglycerides (~−22 mg/dL), VLDL-C (~−5 mg/dL), fasting glucose (−8–12 mg/dL), and hs-CRP (~−1–2 mg/L), with improvements in liver enzymes and endothelial function. Preclinical studies supported hepatoprotective, neurocognitive, dermatological, and hair follicle benefits, echoing classical claims. Amalaki was consistently well tolerated, with no serious adverse events. Conclusion: Amalaki demonstrates a broad therapeutic spectrum consistent with its Ayurvedic identity as a Rasayana. While meta-analytical evidence supports cardiometabolic and hepatic benefits, narrative synthesis highlights its promise in hair, skin, ocular, cognitive, and respiratory health. Further standardized, long-duration RCTs are warranted to validate these traditional claims.

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