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## First Study: Gaathapati Anand
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Here, the use of the term "fruit" refers to the use of purifying fruits for cleansing and washing purposes, such as for hair and scalp. Amla is particularly beneficial for this purpose. It is a tonic for hair. Amla contains a significant amount of iron. Therefore, it is especially beneficial for strengthening hair roots and keeping them black. Amla oil is the main oil used for hair applications.
Here, the mention of "Ksheer Amla" or milky Amla also has its own special meaning. Ksheer Amla refers to the soft, unripe Amla, which does not have a seed, is not particularly sour, and has a milky sweetness. Using excessively sour Amla can cause dryness in the skin. For those with sensitive skin, contact with excessively sour substances can cause irritation. This is not a concern with the use of Ksheer Amla.
Here, the word "fruit" is not used in the context of fruits consumed as food, but rather in the context of fruits that grow on trees and plants. Amla grows on a tree, hence it is a fruit, but it is not eaten as a fruit. It is primarily used in medicines, jams, chutneys, pickles, etc.
Amla holds a prominent position in the Ayurvedic medicinal category of "Kaasthaadhik" (wood-based) medicines. Ayurvedic texts classify it under the "Kaasthaadhik" category of medicines, not under the "Phal" (fruit) category. The "Bhaavaprakash" text describes Amla in the "Haritkyadhik" category. It states:
"Amla, Dhaatri, Trishvafala, and Amrita are the names of Amla. The taste, properties, and digestion of Amla are similar to Haritaki. Amla is particularly effective in eliminating blood disorders, diabetes, and is aphrodisiac and rejuvenating. Due to its sour taste, it is beneficial for Vata (air) disorders. Due to its sweetness and coolness, it pacifies Pitta (bile). Due to its dryness and astringency, it eliminates Kapha (phlegm)."
The "Charak Samhita" text, in the "Chikitsa Sthan" (therapeutic section), under the "Abhayamalakiya Rasayana Pad" (chapter on Amla-based rejuvenating therapies), describes Amla. It states:
[44]
"The properties of Amla are almost the same as those of Haritaki. However, the potency of Amla is..."
1. Trishvaamalaka maakhyaatam Dhaatri Trishvafala Amrita. Haritaki samam Dhaatri - phalam kintu visheshatah. Raktapitta pramehanam param vrushyam rasayanam.
Hanti vaatam tadamlataat pittam madhuryashaityatah.
Kapham rookshakashaayatvaat phalam dhaalyastraidoshajit. Bhaavaprakash Haritkyadhik varg 37-39