Extract of Exotic Berry Counters Inflammation

Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) has been used for many centuries in traditional Indian Ayurvedic formulations for inflammatory diseases. A team of Japanese researchers conducted cellular and animal study to ascertain the anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties of the extract of the amla fruit (also known as Indian gooseberry). When researchers applied the extract of the amla fruit to human and the alleles cells – cells that line the blood vessels, a significant reduction in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced tissue factor expression and von Willebrand factor release occurred. In a leukocyte aviation model of inflammation, the extract decreased inflammatory related markers. As well, the same anti-inflammatory effects were observed in an animal model. Writing that: "Oral administration of the amla fruit extract (50 mg/kg body weight) significantly decreased the concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-[alpha] and IL-6 in serum,” the study authors conclude that: "These results suggest that amla fruit extract may be an effective anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory agent.”