When it comes to antioxidants, few ingredients pack a bigger punch than Indian gooseberry. As Samar Kullab tells Byrdie, Indian gooseberry is “probably one of the highest antioxidant-rich foods. It has 50 times more antioxidants than blueberries.” Not only is Indian gooseberry full of antioxidants (particularly vitamin C)—it also has powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, all of which enable it to deliver deeply clarifying and soothing nutrition to both the skin and hair. As a result, it can turn the skin firm, bright, and soft and can boost hair growth, luminosity, and more.
What exactly is Indian gooseberry? Also known as amla, this round, green fruit grows on small trees native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Southeast Asia. In part due to its extremely high concentration of antioxidants, it has been highly regarded in Ayurvedic tradition for its potent benefits for both health and beauty. Today, it can be used as an extract or integrated into one’s diet, and we’ve incorporated it into products like our Intensely Nourishing Hair Oil for those who are seeking targeted beauty benefits. Here, we break down the numerous benefits of this Ayurvedic ingredient that make it a youth-bringing superstar for both skin and hair.
BENEFITS OF INDIAN GOOSEBERRY FOR SKIN
IT INCREASES SKIN ELASTICITY
As one study demonstrates, Indian gooseberry extract promotes the production of pro-collagen (a precursor to collagen) and also helps prevent the breakdown of collagen. As a key to maintaining skin elasticity, this collagen stimulation thus helps the skin remain firm and youthful. By forming the protein matrix in the skin, the presence of collagen also contributes to skin strength and brightness. Thus, in boosting collagen production, Indian gooseberry helps the skin become firm, bright, and healthy like a natural face mask.
IT REDUCES FINE LINES AND WRINKLES
As several studies show, another side effect of stimulated collagen production is the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. As we age, we produce less collagen, which leads to the formation of wrinkles. By contributing to a boost in skin elasticity through collagen production, Indian gooseberry thus helps to reduce their appearance and work as a natural anti-aging remedy. Furthermore, its high levels of antioxidants like Vitamin C enable it to combat the free radical damage caused by factors like UV exposure and pollution that further contribute to wrinkle formation.
IT LIGHTENS AGE SPOTS AND HYPERPIGMENTATION
According to dermatologist Ranella Hirsch, Indian gooseberry extract helps promote cell turnover. As a result, hyperpigmented skin may become brighter and more even. In addition, since oxidative stress also contributes to age spot formation, the antioxidants abundant in Indian gooseberry further help to combat unevenness in the skin for a radiant, brightened complexion.
IT COMBATS INFLAMMATION AND PROMOTES WOUND HEALING
As studies show, Indian gooseberry has the power to reduce inflammation and combat oxidative stress. The benefits of this anti-inflammatory property are wide-reaching, from protecting against liver damage to soothing red or inflamed skin. Furthermore, research shows that Indian gooseberry can also promote wound healing thanks to its potent antioxidants. For those experiencing inflamed or damaged skin, Indian gooseberry offers a potent natural healing and soothing solution.
BENEFITS OF INDIAN GOOSEBERRY FOR HAIR
In addition to these healing and anti-aging benefits for the skin, Indian gooseberry also boasts a number of benefits for the hair, transforming dry or damaged hair into a luscious, glowing mane.
IT STRENGTHENS AND PROTECTS THE HAIR
Thanks to its potent composition of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, Indian gooseberry can strengthen and nourish hair, thus giving it greater radiance and luster. Rich in Vitamin E, Indian gooseberry may also contribute to cell regeneration and revitalization in the hair. What’s more, Indian gooseberry’s antioxidants also protect the hair from damage that can occur from factors like pollution, dust, and certain styling methods.
IT PREVENTS HAIR LOSS
Research indicates that Indian gooseberry may inhibit the growth of an enzyme that leads to hair loss, a problem that many people struggle with, whether as a result of stress or the natural processes of aging. Additionally, by strengthening and protecting the hair, it can also discourage hair breakage and provide a healthy and natural hair care. Thus, Indian gooseberry not only provides radiance and nourishment to the hair, but it also helps the hair maintain these benefits by keeping it full and luscious.
IT PROVIDES DEEP HYDRATION
Thanks to its highly moisturizing properties, Indian gooseberry can provide potent hydration for dry, damaged, or dull hair. At the same time, according to Daboju Ogboru of NHCG Trichology, it also “helps with sebum regulation by soaking in all the excess oil present on scalp and conditioning [the scalp].” As a result, you don’t have to worry about the hair looking oily or feeling heavy—Indian gooseberry provides as much balance as it does deep hydration.
UMA RECOMMENDS
It’s no wonder Indian gooseberry has been revered in Ayurvedic tradition for centuries. We’ve harnessed the rejuvenating, revitalizing, antioxidant-rich properties of this super-ingredient in products like our Intensely Nourishing Hair Oil, which strengthens and brightens the hair, and our Intensely Nourishing Brow Oil, which stimulates the growth of full, youthful eyebrows.
