Phyllanthus emblica, Linn.
Family:- Euphorbiaceae
Vernacular Names:-
English - Emblic, Emblic myrobalan, Indian gooseberry, Indian-gooseberry
Malayalam - Nellikka
Tamil - Nelli
Sanskrit - Amalaki
Hindi - Amlika
Synonyms (Tamil):- Amalakam, Alakam, Ambal, Aamarikam, Thirathari, Thathiri, Korangam, Miruthupala, Meethunthu.
Varieties Of Nelli:-
1. Satharana Nelli
2. Malai Nelli
3. Karu Nelli
4. Aru Nelli
Raw fruits are yellowish white in colour, dried fruits are black. The latter one is known as Nellimulli.
Parts Used:- Mostly fruits and leaves.
Taste:- Sweet, Astringent, Sour
Potency:- Cold
Division:- Sweet
Actions And Uses:-
Fruits:-
1. Fruits are rich natural source of Vitamin C and successfully used in the treatment of human scurvy.
2. It is a Kayakalpa drug for all age groups (Pediatrics to geriatrics). It prevents Narai, Kirai, Muppu, Pini and promotes immunity. It is a Sirappukarpam. It gives solution to the pitha complaints.
3. It is used in Chathi, solves the problems like arosakam and nausea.
4. Nellikkai Kudineer (decoction) is an excellent drug for pitha complaints like increased thirst, dryness of mouth, giddiness, body heat and nausea.
5. Nellikkai Lehyam:-
San:- Chyavana prasham
Is advised in Pandu, Sobai (dropsy), Kamalai (Jaundice), Gunmam (Abdominal Pain), Peruvayiru (Abdominal Distention), Constipation, Anorexia and Respiratory allergies.
6. Nellikkai Thailam:-
Can be chosen as a best bath oil for eye diseases, giddiness, body heat and burning sensation in upper and lower limbs.
Leaves:-
Tender leaves karkam is advisible in Ninakazhichil or Seethakazhichil (Stools with mucous).
