Indian Gooseberry


Emblica officinalis

Indian gooseberry

Other Names:

Amla

Benefits

  • Anticoccidial
  • Antioxidant
  • Antibacterial
  • Antiviral
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antiulcer
  • Antigout
  • Antidiarrheal
  • Immunity
  • Hepatoprotective
  • Gastroprotective
Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica or Emblica officinalis ) has traditionally been used for the purposes of enhancing general vitality and cognition as well as promoting longevity. It has been used for many years as a herb from Indian (Ayurveda) and Chinese herbal medicine. Research has shown it to possess many positive qualities for its use as a supplement in animals' diets. The Indian gooseberry or amla is abundant in vitamin C and vitamin A. It also contains high levels of folic acid and minerals like calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, carotene, and magnesium. It acts as a diuretic agent and is therefore thought to enhance food absorption, balance stomach acids, fortify the liver, and nourish the brain and mental functioning. Specific applications studied in poultry include:
  • Anticoccidial: Studies showed some protection against coccidiosis in chickens.
  • Antigout: A 2015 study demonstrated that oral administration of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of P. emblica fruits for 28 days provided protection against gout.
  • Boosts Immunity: Amla juice, in Ayurveda, is often used to increase the white blood cells in the body, which are the main line of defense for the immune system. White blood cells attack and eliminate foreign toxins and substances into the bloodstream throughout the body.
  • Digestion aid: Amla is very high in fiber, like most fruits. Fiber adds bulk to the stool and helps move food through the bowels and keeps bowel movements regular.

Poultry Specific Studies

TypePlant PartDosageSpecific useResultsRef
Chickensfruit powder0.8% dietgrowth promoterhad a positive effect on growth performance and net profit per bird in commercial broiler chickens.A Patel et al., 2016
ChickenstanninsCoccidiosisshowed the immunostimulatory properties in broilers and their administration in chickens boost the protective immunity against coccidiosis.Q Kaleem et al., 2014

References