Chapter 45 - Scientific Validation of the Hepatoprotective Effects of the Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis Gaertn): A Review

Abstract

Emblica officinalis Gaertn or Phyllanthus emblica Linn, commonly known as the Indian gooseberry in English or amla in Hindi, is one of the most important Indian medicinal and dietary plants. The fruits are of dietary and medicinal use and have wide applications in both traditional and folk systems of medicine to treat various ailments. Preclinical experiments with both in vitro and in vivo systems of study have shown that amla possesses protective effects against the hepatotoxic xenobiotics like ethanol, paracetamol, carbon tetrachloride, heavy metals, ochratoxins, hexachlorocyclohexane, antitubercular drugs, and hepatotoxicity resulting from iron overload. Amla is also reported to impart beneficial effects on liver function and to mitigate hyperlipidemia and metabolic syndrome. Amla possesses protective effects against the chemical-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in animal models of study. The major phytochemicals quercetin, gallic acid, corilagin, and ellagic acid are also observed to possess hepatoprotective effects against paracetamol, microcystins, galactosamine, and lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatic damage. The hepatoprotective actions of amla appear to be mediated through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and by modulating xenobiotic and lipid metabolism.