Amalbedha: Importance, Benefits, and Side-effects

2021-12-21 18:47:07

Amalbedha (Garcinia pedunculata), also known as Amalvet, is an evergreen plant. It has several medicinal properties. People add the dried fruits of Amalbedha to the diet to reap the benefits of Amalbedha.

The tree has a fluted trunk with short branches. The leaves of the tree are lanceolate with prominent midribs with male flowers that are light green. The female flowers are solitary while the roundish fruit has a diameter ranging between 8 and 12 cm. It has a juicy interior with edible arils.

Amalbedha in Ayurveda

Amalbedha has great ayurvedic importance. It is used to cure several problems for centuries. Amalvet cures diseases such as indigestion, respiration, and problems related to the liver and kidney.

Amalbedha has Ushna (hot potency) and tastes sour with Vipaka property or taste conversion after digestion. It helps in balancing the tridoshas by reducing the Kapha and Vata Dosha and increasing Pitta. Balanced tridoshas helps to cure several illnesses and problems.

Benefits

Manages Diabetes

Amalbedha has anti-diabetic properties. It reduces blood sugar by manifesting insulin-like action. It also prevents damage to the pancreatic cells due to its antioxidant properties and also reduces oxidative stress.

Helps in Weight loss

The ingredient is great for weight loss as it helps in lowering cholesterol and triglycerides levels due to its antioxidant properties. 

Indigestion

Amalbedha helps to cure indigestion. Its appetizer as well as digestive properties help in the digestion process by facilitating the breakdown of food. 

Amalvet has anti-oxidant properties, which help in digestion by regulating the enzymes. The ingredient acts as a catalyst to the enzymes that help in better functioning. 

Asthma

Amalbedha has various properties such as anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that ease the burning sensation in the neck. It also clears up the respiratory tract and helps in easing Asthma.

Ensures good liver health and kidney

Amalvet is good for the liver due to the hepatoprotective properties. The antioxidants prevent the liver cells from the damage caused by the free radicals. It also lowers the levels of certain enzymes (SGPT, SGOT) that increases in liver injury.

The ingredient is also great for kidneys as it contains Garcinol that prevents the deposition of crystals in the kidney. It also reduces inflammation due to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Prevents Nerve damage

The fruit of Amalvet has neuroprotective activity. The antioxidants reduce oxidative stress and prevent damage to the nerve cells by free radicals.

Precautions

Pregnancy and while breastfeeding

Not enough is known about the effect of Amalbedha leaves on a pregnant woman. Therefore, it is safe for the mother and the unborn child to not consume Amalbedha during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding.

Surgery

Amalbedha should be avoided in any form if a surgery is scheduled. It can pose a risk such as increased bleeding.

Side-effects

There are no known side effects of Amalbedha, and it is likely safe for consumption. However, avoid overdosing as it can cause liver damage or several other health conditions.

In case of any problem after consuming Amalbedha one should immediately see a doctor.

Where is it found?

Amalbedha is native to the south-eastern regions of Asia. It is found in certain regions of Myanmar and the north-eastern parts of India.