The fruit is dried then finely pulverized. This powder is traditionally mixed with warm water or honey, to be consumed in the morning according to Ayurvedic practices. Approximately 1 to 3 g of powder per day, to be adjusted according to tolerance.
A few pieces of dried fruit are infused in hot water for about ten minutes. This simple preparation was consumed to support digestion after meals. One teaspoon of dried fruit per cup of hot water.
The fruit is macerated in a vegetable oil (often sesame or coconut) then gently heated to extract the active principles. The resulting oil is applied as a scalp massage, a traditional cosmetic use rather than internal. Dosage to be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Amla can be found dried, powdered or as oil in herbal shops specializing in Ayurvedic plants and certain Indian grocery stores; the tree itself is cultivated in regions with tropical or subtropical climates.
The fruits are traditionally harvested in autumn and early winter, once they have reached full maturity on the tree.