Native to southeast Asia, Indian gooseberries grow from the Indian gooseberry plant, which produces a round, greenish-yellow fruit with vertical stripes. Indian gooseberries have a bitter and sour taste and boast many health benefits. Gooseberry benefits include the ability to be used in natural medicine. Indian gooseberry benefits the body by promoting liver health, controlling blood sugar levels, decreasing inflammation and more.
1. Contains Phytochemicals
Gooseberry benefits the body by providing it with a healthy source of phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are antioxidant plant compounds that help prevent free radical damage in the body. These pytochemicals work to reduce oxidative damage to the cells to help prevent chronic diseases from developing.
2. Promotes Liver Health
Indian gooseberry benefits include the ability to promote liver health. The antioxidants in gooseberry benefit the liver by aiding in detoxification and the secretion of bile. Studies have shown that gooseberry can help protect the liver from toxicity and even cancer. (1)
3. Reduces Cholesterol Levels
Gooseberry benefits include the ability to lower cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that Indian gooseberry benefits the body by preventing plaque buildup and decreasing the risk of coronary heart disease. In a 2012 study, patients treated with gooseberry experienced decreased levels of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels, along with increased levels of HDL cholesterol. (2)
4. Fights Cancer
Research has shown that Indian gooseberry benefits include the ability to fight cancer. A 2005 animal study found that gooseberry extract was able to decrease skin cancer tumor formation by 60%. Another study from Thailand found that gooseberry was able to inhibit the growth of lung, liver, breast, ovarian, cervical and colorectal cancer cells. (3)
5. Controls Blood Sugar Levels
Gooseberry benefits include the ability to naturally control blood sugar levels. Gooseberries are high in fiber, which helps slow the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream to prevent dips and spikes in blood sugar levels.
6. Prevents Constipation
Thanks to their fiber content, gooseberry benefits include the ability to prevent constipation. They have a natural laxative effect which helps ensure that the digestive system runs smoothly. High-fiber foods like gooseberries work to prevent blockage in the gastrointestinal tract and fight constipation.
7. Decreases Inflammation
Gooseberry benefits include the ability to decrease inflammation. Studies have shown that the powerful antioxidants in gooseberry decrease the levels of pro-inflammatory markers in human cells. By decreasing inflammation, gooseberries can help prevent many health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes and even cancer. (4)
8. Improves Hair and Skin Health
Thanks to the antioxidants it contains, gooseberry benefits both skin and hair health. Research has shown that gooseberry extract increases collagen, which helps improve skin elasticity. Gooseberry is also high in Vitamin E, which can help enhance hair growth.
9. Improves Digestive Health
Indian gooseberry benefits include the ability to enhance digestive health. Gooseberries have gastroprotective properties that work to keep the digestive system running smoothly. Consuming gooseberries on a regular basis can help prevent gastric ulcers and digestive issues like constipation.
10. Supports Cognitive Function
Gooseberry benefits include the ability to support cognitive function. Studies have shown that gooseberry extract can help increase memory retention and decrease levels of an enzyme linked to Alzheimer’s disease. (5)