Amla vs. Acerola

In the Ayurvedic medical system, amla is classed as a rasayana, a tonic and rejuvenative herb. The May 2011 issue of "European Journal of Cancer Prevention" enumerates some of amla's additional benefits, including protecting the heart and treating anemia. Acerola fruit possesses one of the highest natural concentrations of vitamin C, according to Purdue University. Additionally, it is an antioxidant and shields cellular DNA from environmental toxins. Use herbs only under the supervision of a physician.

Acerola

The small, evergreen acerola tree favors warm environments, such as Jamaica, Central America and parts of South America. The somewhat acidic fruit of the acerola tree is commonly savored as a nutritious juice in Brazil. Acerola, Malpighia glabra, is also known as West Indian cherry, Barbados cherry and cereso. One cup of raw acerola fruit, or 100 g, contains about 131 calories, 7 g of carbohydrates, 800 I.U. of vitamin A and 1,600 mg of vitamin C, according to the USDA Nutrient Data Laboratory.

Amla

Amla fruit belongs to Ayurveda's category of rasayanas, which are powerful herbs that are thought to bestow longevity and general well-being. Amla, Emblica officinalis, also known as amalaki or Indian gooseberry, may well be the most revered therapeutic herb in Ayurveda, according to the May 2011 issue of "European Journal of Cancer Prevention." Clinical herbalist David Winston, author of "Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief," observes that amla contains advantageous plant chemicals, including the polyphenols ellagic acid and quercetin. These small, globular fruits also contain tannins, flavonols and abundant vitamin C.

Acerola and Health Conditions

In addition to its wealth of the antioxidant vitamin C, a study published in the April 2011 issue of "Plant Food for Human Nutrition" found that extracts from both ripe and unripe acerola fruits had antigenotoxic properties, meaning an ability to protect cellular genetic material, or DNA, from harmful toxins that can cause cancer. Interestingly, the unripe fruit demonstrated a higher level of cell protection, contained more vitamin C and had a stronger antioxidant effect than the ripe fruit. Ask your physician if acerola is appropriate for you.

Amla and Health Conditions

Amla offers many health-promoting qualities, writes Winston, and can protect cells from free radical damage. It also can lower cholesterol, attack viruses and relieve water retention. It is used in traditional Indian medicine to alleviate nausea, combat liver disease, prevent aging and provide general nourishment to the body's tissues. "European Journal of Cancer Prevention" noted in May 2011 that amla appears to protect against cell mutation, reduce inflammation, and prevent or delay cancer. Consult a qualified health-care provider before adding amla to your regimen.