Phyllanthus emblica Bark (Amla Twak)

1. Taxonomic insights

Species: Phyllanthus emblica

Family: Phyllanthaceae

Genus: Phyllanthus

Related Herbs from the same family:Phyllanthus niruri (Bhumyamalaki): The entire plant, including the bark of the stem and roots, is used in traditional medicine for liver and kidney disorders.

Phyllanthus amarus (Stonebreaker): Similar to P. niruri, the whole plant is utilized, and its bark shares analogous astringent and hepatoprotective tannins.

Phyllanthus fraternus: The bark and roots of this species are used in folk medicine for diabetes and jaundice, showing a parallel use of non-fruit parts within the genus.

2. Common Names:Scientific Name: Phyllanthus emblica | English: Emblic Myrobalan Bark, Amla Bark | Sanskrit: Amalaki Twak, Dhatri Twak | Hindi: Amla Ki Chhaal | Tamil: Nelli Pattai | Telugu: Usiri Chekka | Kannada: Nellikayi Bala | Malayalam: Nellikka Patta | Marathi: Avalkati Chi Sal | Bengali: Amlaki Gachher Chhal |

3. Medicinal Uses:Antidiarrheal, Astringent, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Antipyretic (fever-reducing), Hepatoprotective, Hypoglycemic (lowers blood sugar), Antimicrobial, Dentifrice (for gums and oral hygiene).

Medicinal Parts:Here we are focusing exclusively on the bark of the stem and branches of Phyllanthus emblica.

• Stem Bark: This is the primary part used. It is harvested from branches and the main stem, dried, and powdered for medicinal use.

• Root Bark: Occasionally used, often considered more potent, but less common due to sustainability concerns. Its uses are similar to, and sometimes overlapping with, the stem bark in traditional practices.

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

The bark of Phyllanthus emblica has a distinct phytochemical profile, richer in certain tannins and lignans compared to the fruit.

Hydrolyzable Tannins (Ellagitannins): A significantly higher concentration than in the fruit, including compounds like Putranjivain A, Emblicanin A & B, and Phyllemblin. These are responsible for the powerful Astringent and Antidiarrheal actions, causing tissue contraction and reducing secretions. They also contribute to potent Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory activities.

Proanthocyanidins (Condensed Tannins): These polymers provide strong Antioxidant effects and contribute to the bark's ability to precipitate proteins, which is the basis for its Astringent and wound-healing properties.

Lupane-type Triterpenes: (e.g., Lupenone, Lupcol). These compounds have demonstrated Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial properties in scientific studies. Lupcol, in particular, is known for its potential anti-arthritic and hepatoprotective effects.

Phenolic Acids: (e.g., Gallic Acid, Ellagic Acid). Present in high amounts, these compounds are potent Antioxidants and contribute to the bark's Antipyretic and Antimicrobial actions.

Alkaloids and Glycosides: While present in smaller quantities, they may contribute to the overall hypoglycemic and therapeutic synergy of the bark extract.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Antidiarrheal and Dysentery Formulation

Formulation: Bark decoction (Kashayam).

Preparation & Use: 10-20 grams of dried bark is boiled in 2 cups of water until reduced to half. This decoction is consumed in 1-2 ounce doses, 2-3 times a day after cooling and straining.

Reasoning: The high concentration of hydrolyzable tannins acts as a powerful astringent, precipitating proteins in the intestinal mucosa. This reduces gut inflammation, decreases fluid secretion, and forms a protective layer, thereby consolidating stools and checking diarrhea.

Anti-inflammatory and Antipyretic (for Fevers and Inflammation)

Formulation: Bark decoction.

Preparation & Use: The decoction, as prepared above, is consumed to reduce high fevers, especially those associated with Pitta aggravation, and to alleviate internal inflammation.

Reasoning: The phenolic acids (gallic acid, ellagic acid) and triterpenes (lupcol) inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and pathways like COX-2. The antioxidant action helps neutralize pyrogens that cause fever.

Hepatoprotective (Liver Protectant) Therapy

Formulation: Bark powder (Churna) or decoction.

Preparation & Use: 1-3 grams of bark powder is mixed with honey or water and consumed twice daily. Alternatively, the decoction is used.

Reasoning: Modern studies indicate that the antioxidants in the bark, particularly the unique tannins, protect hepatocytes from toxin-induced damage (e.g., from paracetamol or carbon tetrachloride). They help stabilize liver cell membranes and regenerate liver tissue.

Oral Health and Gingivitis Treatment

Formulation: Bark powder for tooth cleaning, or a concentrated decoction as a mouthwash (Kavala).

Preparation & Use: The dried bark is powdered and used as a tooth powder. A strong decoction is cooled and used as a gargle for sore throat and as a mouthwash for bleeding gums, mouth ulcers, and gingivitis.

Reasoning: The Astringent property of the tannins tightens gum tissue and reduces bleeding. The Antimicrobial action helps reduce oral pathogens responsible for plaque and gum disease. Clinical studies have shown its efficacy in reducing plaque index and gingival inflammation.

Topical Application for Wounds and Ulcers

Formulation: Bark paste or wash.

Preparation & Use: The bark is powdered and mixed with water or honey to make a paste. This is applied directly to non-healing wounds, ulcers, and skin inflammations. A decoction can be used as a wash for infected wounds.

Reasoning: The Astringent action helps cleanse the wound and contract tissue, while the Antimicrobial and Anti-inflammatory properties prevent infection and reduce swelling, promoting granulation and healing.

6. Healing recipes, Teas, Decoctions and Culinary use (if any):

The bark is used almost exclusively for therapeutic purposes, not culinary.

Standard Bark Decoction (Kashayam) for Diarrhea and Fever

Purpose: To control diarrhea and reduce fever.

Preparation & Use:

• Take 15 grams of dried, crushed Amla bark.

• Add to 400 ml (2 cups) of water and boil until reduced to 100 ml (about ½ cup).

• Strain and divide this into two doses. Consume one dose in the morning and one in the evening.

Amla Bark Tooth Powder for Gum Health

Purpose: To strengthen gums and reduce bleeding.

Preparation & Use:

• Powder dried Amla bark finely using a grinder.

• Mix with a small amount of rock salt (Sendha Namak) or neem powder.

• Dip a wet toothbrush into the powder and brush gently, massaging the gums.

Antidiabetic Bark Infusion

Purpose: As an adjunct support for managing blood sugar levels.

Preparation & Use:

• Soak 10 grams of bark in a cup of hot water overnight.

• Strain and drink the water on an empty stomach in the morning.

• Note: This should be done under the supervision of a healthcare provider, especially if taking other diabetic medication.

Classical Ayurvedic Formulations (that include Amla Bark)

• Nyagrodhadi Churna: A famous compound powder primarily containing Barks of Banyan, Amla, and other trees, used for brushing teeth and treating gum diseases.

• Phalatrikadi Kwatha: A decoction used for diarrhea and dysentery, which can include Amla bark as an ingredient.

Very Important:

Ayurvedic approach to harvesting Amla bark, is notably different and more ecologically sensitive than the methods used for many other trees.

According to Ayurvedic principles, the bark of the Amla tree is never cut or scraped off the main trunk or branches in a way that harms the tree. The preferred and prescribed method is to collect only the bark that has naturally peeled off or is already loose and about to fall.

7. Disclaimer:

The bark of Phyllanthus emblica is a potent astringent and should be used therapeutically with care. Due to its high tannin content, long-term internal use may interfere with the absorption of certain minerals and pharmaceuticals. It is contraindicated in cases of chronic constipation. The hypoglycemic action necessitates careful monitoring of blood sugar levels in diabetic patients on medication. As with any potent herb, it is imperative to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider before use, especially during pregnancy, lactation, or when treating specific medical conditions. This information is for educational and academic purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

• Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (Part I, Volumes on Monographs)

• Dravyaguna Vijnana (Vol. II) by Dr. J.L.N. Sastry

• Review on Indian Medicinal Plants by ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research)

• Bioactive Phytochemicals in Indian Fruits and Their Efficacy in Health Care - Scientific reviews and clinical studies.

9. Further study: Plants that might interest you due to similar medicinal properties

1. Terminalia arjuna (Arjuna)

• Species: Terminalia arjuna | Family: Combretaceae | Genus: Terminalia

• Similarities: The bark of Arjuna is a premier cardioprotective and wound-healing herb in Ayurveda. It shares the high tannin content, astringent action, and use in decoctions for healing internal and external tissues, providing a strong parallel for bark-specific therapeutics.

2. Quercus infectoria (Oak Gall, Majuphal)

• Species: Quercus infectoria | Family: Fagaceae | Genus: Quercus

• Similarities: Oak galls are one of the most potent astringents in the herbal world, due to an extremely high tannin content (50-70%). They are used similarly for severe diarrhea, dysentery, and as a mouthwash for gum disease, mirroring and intensifying the primary astringent applications of Amla bark.

3. Azadirachta indica (Neem)

• Species: Azadirachta indica | Family: Meliaceae | Genus: Azadirachta

• Similarities: Neem bark is intensely bitter and astringent, with strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is traditionally used in decoctions for fevers, skin diseases, and dental care (as a chewing stick), sharing the antipyretic, antimicrobial, and oral health applications of Amla bark.

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