Bael
Bael
Bael or “Shivaduma ” also known as the tree of Lord Shiva is of sacred value in India. It is also an important medicinal plant with several uses in traditional medicine. All parts of Bael (root, leaf, trunk, fruit and seeds) are useful in the management of various diseases.
According to Ayurveda, unripe Bael fruit pulp along with sugar or honey is found to be very effective in managing diarrhea, dysentery and other gastrointestinal disorders. Bael leaf decoction with black pepper also help manage constipation as it loosens the stools due to its laxative property. It also help manage cough due to its expectorant property. This promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages and helps in easy breathing.
Massaging Bael leaf powder with coconut oil on the scalp is good for promoting hair growth as it provides nourishment to the hair. This paste can also be applied for managing eye complications such as abscess due to its anti-inflammatory activity. You can even use Bael pulp as a face pack to give you a youthful looking skin.
It is advisable to avoid the excessive intake of Bael fruit as it may cause constipation due to its laxative property[2-4].
According to Ayurveda, unripe Bael fruit pulp along with sugar or honey is found to be very effective in managing diarrhea, dysentery and other gastrointestinal disorders. Bael leaf decoction with black pepper also help manage constipation as it loosens the stools due to its laxative property. It also help manage cough due to its expectorant property. This promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages and helps in easy breathing.
Massaging Bael leaf powder with coconut oil on the scalp is good for promoting hair growth as it provides nourishment to the hair. This paste can also be applied for managing eye complications such as abscess due to its anti-inflammatory activity. You can even use Bael pulp as a face pack to give you a youthful looking skin.
It is advisable to avoid the excessive intake of Bael fruit as it may cause constipation due to its laxative property[2-4].
What are the synonyms of Bael?
Aegle marmelos, Sriphala, Vael, Bela, Bilva, Bael Root, Bengal Quince, Bilivaphal, Bill, Bilum, Koovalam, Baela, Bel, Bil, Vilvam, Maredu, Wood Apple[1]
What is the source of Bael?
Plant Based
Benefits of Bael
Modern Science View
Bael might be beneficial in managing diarrhea. Bael has anti-diarrheal and antimicrobial activity.
Bael reduces the growth and inhibits the release of toxins by harmful micro-organisms. Thus, Bael controls the infection and reduces the frequency of stools in case of diarrhea[5][6][10].
Bael reduces the growth and inhibits the release of toxins by harmful micro-organisms. Thus, Bael controls the infection and reduces the frequency of stools in case of diarrhea[5][6][10].
Modern Science View
Bael might be beneficial in managing constipation. Bael fruit has laxative properties. Ripe fruit of Bael is rich in fibre that helps to cleanse the intestine[5][10][11].
How effective is Bael?
Insufficient evidence
Constipation, Diarrhea
Precautions when using Bael
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Bael may lower the blood sugar level. So, it is generally advised to monitor your blood sugar level while taking Bael with other anti diabetic drugs[5].
FAQs about Bael precautions
Recommended Dosage of Bael
- Bael Juice - ½-1 cup twice a day or as per your taste.
- Bael Churna - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Bael Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
- Bael Tablet - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
- Bael Candy - 4-5 candies or as per your requirement.
How to use Bael
1. Bael Juice (Sharbat)
a. Take ½- 1 cup of Bael Sharbat.
b. Mix with water and drink it after taking light food once or twice a day.
c. Drink this to get rid of diarrhea or dysentery.
2. Bael Churna
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Bael churna.
b. Mix with water and take after lunch and dinner.
3. Bael Tea
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of roasted Bael pulp.
b. Add hot water to it.
c. Stir for 1-2 minutes.
3. Bael Squash
a. Take 3-4 teaspoons of Bael pulp in a glass.
b. Pour some cold water to it.
c. Stir for 2-3 minutes.
d. Strain and add water.
e. Drink this for cooling effects on the stomach.
4. Bael Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Bael capsules.
b. Swallow it with water preferably after meals.
5. Bael Tablets
a. Take 1-2 tablets of Bael.
b. Swallow it with water preferably after meals.
6. Bael Murabba
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Bael murabba.
b. Have it preferably in the breakfast for better digestion.
7. Bael Candies
You can take Bael candies as per your liking and requirement.
a. Take ½- 1 cup of Bael Sharbat.
b. Mix with water and drink it after taking light food once or twice a day.
c. Drink this to get rid of diarrhea or dysentery.
2. Bael Churna
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Bael churna.
b. Mix with water and take after lunch and dinner.
3. Bael Tea
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of roasted Bael pulp.
b. Add hot water to it.
c. Stir for 1-2 minutes.
3. Bael Squash
a. Take 3-4 teaspoons of Bael pulp in a glass.
b. Pour some cold water to it.
c. Stir for 2-3 minutes.
d. Strain and add water.
e. Drink this for cooling effects on the stomach.
4. Bael Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Bael capsules.
b. Swallow it with water preferably after meals.
5. Bael Tablets
a. Take 1-2 tablets of Bael.
b. Swallow it with water preferably after meals.
6. Bael Murabba
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Bael murabba.
b. Have it preferably in the breakfast for better digestion.
7. Bael Candies
You can take Bael candies as per your liking and requirement.
Benefits of Bael
1. Urticaria
Urticaria is a type of allergic reaction which is also known as Sheetpitta in Ayurveda. This is due to an imbalance of Vata and Kapha as well as when Pitta gets impaired. Bael gives relief in case of Urticaria due to its Vata and Kapha balancing properties
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Bael juice or as per your requirement.
b. Mix with coconut oil or rose water and apply on the affected area.
c. Leave it for 4-5 hours to get rid of urticaria.
2. Dandruff
According to Ayurveda, dandruff is a condition marked by flakes of dry skin on the scalp. This is due to an aggravated Vata. Bael has properties of balancing Vata dosha and helps to control dandruff.
Tips:
a. Take Bael peel powder.
b. Mix with coconut oil and massage regularly.
c. Continue this for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Urticaria is a type of allergic reaction which is also known as Sheetpitta in Ayurveda. This is due to an imbalance of Vata and Kapha as well as when Pitta gets impaired. Bael gives relief in case of Urticaria due to its Vata and Kapha balancing properties
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Bael juice or as per your requirement.
b. Mix with coconut oil or rose water and apply on the affected area.
c. Leave it for 4-5 hours to get rid of urticaria.
2. Dandruff
According to Ayurveda, dandruff is a condition marked by flakes of dry skin on the scalp. This is due to an aggravated Vata. Bael has properties of balancing Vata dosha and helps to control dandruff.
Tips:
a. Take Bael peel powder.
b. Mix with coconut oil and massage regularly.
c. Continue this for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Recommended Dosage of Bael
- Bael Powder - ½ - 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Bael
1. Bael Juice
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Bael juice.
b. Mix with coconut oil or rose water.
c. Apply on the affected area and leave it for 4-5 hours.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
2. Bael Pulp Scrub
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Bael pulp.
b. Gently massage on your face and neck for 4-5 minutes.
c. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
3. Bael Powder with Hair Pack
i. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Bael powder.
ii. Add coconut oil to it and stir.
iii. Massage on the hair and let it sit for 4-5 hours.
iv. Rinse with shampoo and water.
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Bael juice.
b. Mix with coconut oil or rose water.
c. Apply on the affected area and leave it for 4-5 hours.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
2. Bael Pulp Scrub
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Bael pulp.
b. Gently massage on your face and neck for 4-5 minutes.
c. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
3. Bael Powder with Hair Pack
i. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Bael powder.
ii. Add coconut oil to it and stir.
iii. Massage on the hair and let it sit for 4-5 hours.
iv. Rinse with shampoo and water.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
1. Ways to eat ripe Bael fruit:
a. Peel of the skin of Bael.
b. Mash it well and soak the pulp for 2-3 hours before consuming it.
2. Ways to make Bael juice:
a. Cut the Bael fruit and scoop the pulp with a spoon.
b. Mash it well and add milk for flavor.
c. Strain and drink the juice.
a. Peel of the skin of Bael.
b. Mash it well and soak the pulp for 2-3 hours before consuming it.
2. Ways to make Bael juice:
a. Cut the Bael fruit and scoop the pulp with a spoon.
b. Mash it well and add milk for flavor.
c. Strain and drink the juice.
Modern Science View
Bael has a characteristic taste of its own. At first it tastes like a mixture of mango and banana. After few seconds the taste changes to slightly astringent and refreshing.
Modern Science View
Bael wood is not edible and do not contain any specific medicinal value.
Ayurvedic View
Unripe Bael fruit is very effective in treating dysentery, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal disorders. But if it is taken in large amount it can cause constipation. This is due to its Grahi (absorbent) property.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon of unripe Bael pulp.
2. Dry roast and add sugar and honey.
3. Have it once or twice a day to get relief in dysentery, diarrhea.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon of unripe Bael pulp.
2. Dry roast and add sugar and honey.
3. Have it once or twice a day to get relief in dysentery, diarrhea.
Ayurvedic View
No, Bael fruit or its juice is good for several respiratory problems like cold, asthma and bronchitis. This is because of its Kapha balancing property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Bael is beneficial in managing diabetes due to its anti-diabetic property. Bael helps in reducing the blood glucose level. Bael also increases the secretion of insulin. Due to its antioxidant property, Bael also reduces the risk of diabetes related complications[7][8][10].
Modern Science View
Yes, Bael is good for liver. It has anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties. Bael leaves protect the liver against the damage caused by alcohol consumption[7][10].
Modern Science View
Yes, Bael has anti-ulcer activity. Oxidative stress is one of the main causes of gastric ulcers. Luvangetin, a chemical present in Bael has strong antioxidant property and prevents ulcer formation[8].
Modern Science View
Yes, Bael can be used as a good male contraceptive. Animal studies state that Bael bark reduces the testosterone level. It inhibits sperm formation thus, reduces the sperm count and movement. Thus, Bael inhibits pregnancy. But, the fertility can be restored once the treatment is withdrawn[6][10].
Modern Science View
Yes, Bael has anti-asthmatic and antihistaminic property. Allergy causing substances cause contractions in trachea. Bael is known to reduce these contractions. Bael also reduces phlegm formation and reduces the severity of asthma[10].
Modern Science View
Consumption of Bael fruit in pregnancy helps to reduce vomiting. A mixture of boiled rice water and unripe Bael fruit pulp if taken twice a day might help control vomiting during pregnancy[11].
Modern Science View
Yes, Bael helps control cholesterol due to its antihyperlipidemic activity. The antioxidant activity of certain constituents present in Bael lowers the level of total blood cholesterol, bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides. The heart healthy fats present in Bael helps improve the level of good cholesterol. Scientific study suggests that the aqueous extract of Bael leaves are used to manage the level of cholesterol[11][12].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Bael might help in controlling cholesterol level due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. Because high cholesterol is a condition which occurs due to weak or poor digestion that results in the formation and accumulation of Ama. Bael helps to improve your digestion and prevent the formation of Ama, thus controlling cholesterol.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of roasted Bael pulp.
b. Add hot water to it.
c. Stir for 1-2 minutes and drink it to regulate cholesterol level.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of roasted Bael pulp.
b. Add hot water to it.
c. Stir for 1-2 minutes and drink it to regulate cholesterol level.
Modern Science View
Bael leaf has a number of medicinal benefits. It has a mild laxative effect as it loosen the stool and prevents constipation. It also helps manage the cough in asthma and bronchitis due to its expectorant activity. The anti-inflammatory activity of Bael leaf help manage fever, bleeding nostrils and are also used for correcting eye complications such as conjunctivitis and other eye infections[13][14].
Ayurvedic View
Bael leaf is helpful in some conditions like fever, pain or any other problem that occurs due to an imbalance of Vata-Kapha dosha, due to its Vata-Kapha balancing and Shothhar (anti-inflammatory) properties. It helps to balance these doshas and reduce the symptoms of pain or fever.
It also helps to manage the condition of asthma, cough and cold due to its Vata and Kapha balancing properties.
It might also manage constipation if its leaves decoction is given with black pepper.
It also helps to manage the condition of asthma, cough and cold due to its Vata and Kapha balancing properties.
It might also manage constipation if its leaves decoction is given with black pepper.
Ayurvedic View
No, Bael does not cause rashes because of its Ropan (healing) properties. But it is advisable to consult a doctor before applying Bael if you have a hypersensitive skin.
Modern Science View
Yes, Bael helps to promote wound healing. Bael when applied, helps in the formation of new skin cells and promotes wound closure[7].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Bael helps to promote wound healing because it has Ropan (healing) property. It promotes quick healing when applied on the affected area.
Modern Science View
Yes, Bael leaves are effective in managing eye infections like conjunctivitis. Decoction prepared from Bael flowers can also be used as an eye lotion in eye infections[10].
Modern Science View
Yes, Bael fruit powder can be applied externally for the treatment of burns.
Tip:
1. Mix Bael fruit powder with mustard oil.
2. Apply on the burn.
Tip:
1. Mix Bael fruit powder with mustard oil.
2. Apply on the burn.
Modern Science View
Yes, Bael is used in managing ear infections. Bael has astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. Bael reduces ear inflammation and pus discharge[10].
Modern Science View
Although not enough evidence is available, Bael can be used in case of leprosy[10].
Ayurvedic View
Bael helps to promote quick healing when applied on the affected area. This is due to its Ropan (healing) property.
Tips:
1. Take a few Bael leaves.
2. Sundry and powder the leaves.
3. Sprinkle on the wound after taking bath.
Tips:
1. Take a few Bael leaves.
2. Sundry and powder the leaves.
3. Sprinkle on the wound after taking bath.
Modern Science View
Yes, Bael is used in managing leucoderma. Psoralen in Bael increases the tolerance of skin against sunlight and helps to maintain the normal color of the skin[10].
Ayurvedic View
Bael helps to promote healing when applied on the affected area. This is because of its Ropan (healing) property.
Modern Science View
Although not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Bael leaves for skin rashes. According to a scientific study, Bael fruits when crushed with Strychnos nux vomica seeds and Pongania pinnata, boiled with coconut oil helps to manage skin rash[13].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Bael might help manage skin rashes due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Ropan (healing) properties. It helps in quick healing of the affected area.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Bael juice.
b. Mix with coconut oil or rose water.
c. Apply on the affected area and leave it for 4-5 hours.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Bael juice.
b. Mix with coconut oil or rose water.
c. Apply on the affected area and leave it for 4-5 hours.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
Modern Science View
Bael leaf oil consist of limonene which is used as a scent in hair oil. It also acts as a hair tonic when mixed with cumin seeds and massaged on the scalp[13][14].
Ayurvedic View
Hair problems like dandruff, itchy or oily scalp might be due to an aggravation of Kapha dosha. Bael might help manage these conditions due to its Kapha balancing property. It helps to remove excess oil from the scalp and give natural health and shine to the hair.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Bael powder.
b. Add coconut oil to it and mix well.
c. Massage on the hair and scalp and let it sit for 4-5 hours.
d. Rinse with shampoo and water.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Bael powder.
b. Add coconut oil to it and mix well.
c. Massage on the hair and scalp and let it sit for 4-5 hours.
d. Rinse with shampoo and water.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Shahedur R, Rashida P.Therapeutic potential of Aegle marmelos (L.)-An overview.Asian Pac J Trop Dis. 2014; 4(1): 71–77.
- Gupta D, John PP, Kumar P, et al.PHARMACOLOGICAL REVIEW OF AEGLE MARMELOS CORR. FRUITS.JPSR.2011;2(8):2031-2036.
- Sekar DK, Kumar G, Karthik L, et al.A review on pharmacological and phytochemical properties of Aegle marmelos (L.) Corr. Serr. (Rutaceae).Asian Journal of Plant Science and Research.2011;1 (2):8-17.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-164/Bael
- Rahman S, Parvin R.Therapeutic potential of Aegle marmelos (L.)-An overview.Asian Pac J Trop Dis. 2014 Feb; 4(1): 71–77.
- Sanghi SB, Mushtaq S. Aegle marmelos a potential medicinal tree: An overview. International Journal of Research - GRANTHAALAYAH.2017;5(8):63-66.
- Dutta A, Lal N, Naaz M, et al. Ethnological and ethno-medicinal importance of Aegle marmelos (L.) corr (Bael) among indigenous people of india. American Journal of Ethnomedicine.2014;1(5):290-312.
- Rishabha M, Ajay K, Anupama S, et al. Pharmacological screening, ayurvedic values and commercial utility of Aegle marmelos. IJDDR.2012;4(1):28-37.
- Patel PK, Sahu J, Sahu L, et al. Aegle marmelos:A review on its medicinal properties. International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Phytopharmacological Research.2012;1(5):332-341.
- Kaushik B, Sumanta M, Padilam S. An eye-catching review of Aegle marmelos L. (Golden Apple). Pharmacogn J. 2019; 11(2): 207-224.
- Asghar N, Mushtaq Z, Arshad MU, et al. Phytochemical composition, antilipidemic and antihypercholesterolemic perspectives of Bael leaf extracts. Lipids in Health and Disease.2018. 17(68):2-9.
- Parmar M, Singh S, Patel B. Historical and ethno-medical review on Bilva (Aegle marmelos Corr.) J. res. tradit. med.2016;2(5):138-146.
- Nilesh VD, Atul NP, Akkatai AR, et al.Review on Aegle Marmelos: A potential medicinal tree.IRJP 2012;3 (8):86-91.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.