Anecdotal reports suggest amla can:

• condition your scalp
• promote healthy hair growth
• improve the tone of henna hair dyes
• minimize grays
• boost volume
• reduce dandruff
• treat head lice

Many of these claims have yet to be studied through clinical research, so its overall efficacy is unclear.

Hair growth

An olde animal study found that topical application of amla oil slightly increased the rate of hair growth in rabbits. The researchers suspect this benefit is tied to amla’s high concentration of vitamin E.

Vitamin E supports healthy circulation. Applying it topically may promote healing and cell regeneration in the given area.

Although these results are promising, more research is needed to assess how amla powder affects human hair.

Overall health

Amla is rich in:

• vitamin C
• tannins
• phosphorus
• iron
• calcium

Topical application delivers these nutrients directly to your hair. This potentially results in healthier locks.

It’s also worth noting that vitamin C and other antioxidants can help skin cells regenerate. This may promote a healthier scalp, subsequently minimizing dandruff and resulting in healthier hair.

Lice

A 2014 study found that an herbal solution containing amla was more effective than several over-the-counter (OTC) chemical solutions at treating head lice.