Benefits of Bael Fruit that You Don't Know

Botanical Name: Aegle marmelos
Other English Names: Slow Apple, Bengal Quince
Indian Name: Bel or Siriphal

Origin, Distribution, and Composition

The bael tree is a large deciduous plant, growing up to 8–10 meters tall, with a stout trunk and distinctive, spreading branches. It bears aromatic, greenish-white flowers and a woody, smooth fruit ranging from 5 to 15 cm in diameter. The fruit’s pulp is thick, aromatic, and contains seeds covered in fibrous hair. Bael fruit can be consumed fresh or dried.

Regarded as sacred in Hindu culture, the bael tree is associated with Lord Shiva and is mentioned in ancient texts such as the Yajurveda and Charaka Samhita. It is widely found in India, particularly around temples, and is grown throughout the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

Nutritionally, 100 grams of edible bael fruit contains: 61.5% moisture, 1.8% protein, 0.3% fat, 1.7% minerals, 2.9% fiber, and 31.8% carbohydrates, with a calorific value of 137 kcal. It also provides calcium, phosphorus, iron, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin C.

Bael contains several bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, coumarins (like marmorosin and skimianine), β-sitosterol, and other phytochemicals from various parts including the leaves, roots, and fruit.

Healing Power and Curative Properties

The bael tree is one of India's most valued medicinal plants. All parts of the tree—leaves, bark, roots, and fruit at different stages—offer health benefits. The semi-ripe fruit is especially prized for its cooling, laxative, and stomach-strengthening qualities.

1. Constipation

Ripe bael fruit acts as a natural laxative. Regular consumption for 2–3 months helps eliminate old fecal matter and cleanse the intestines. The ideal method is bael ka sharbat: remove seeds from the pulp, strain it, and mix with milk and sugar. Around 70 grams of ripe pulp is recommended for adults. It can also be consumed plain without milk or sugar.

2. Diarrhoea and Dysentery

Unripe or half-ripe bael is a potent remedy for chronic diarrhoea and dysentery without fever. The fruit is sliced while green, sun-dried, powdered, and stored. The dried powder or baked bael mixed with jaggery is effective in treating symptoms.

3. Peptic Ulcer

An infusion of bael leaves helps heal peptic ulcers. Soak leaves overnight, strain in the morning, and drink regularly. Tannins in the leaves reduce inflammation, while the mucilage in the fruit coats the stomach lining and promotes healing.

4. Ear Problems

For chronic ear infections or discharge, a traditional remedy involves burning a stiff bael root dipped in neem oil. The oil that drips from the root acts as a natural antiseptic, combining the astringency of bael and the antibacterial qualities of neem.

5. Respiratory Disorders

Bael leaves can be used to prepare medicated oil for relief from frequent colds and respiratory issues. Juice from the leaves is mixed with gingelly oil and heated with black cumin. Massage a teaspoon of this oil into the scalp before bathing to build resistance to cold and cough.

Precautions

• Ripe bael fruit should not be consumed continuously without breaks, as it may cause intestinal atony (loss of elasticity).
• Always prepare bael sherbet with a viscous consistency. Thin sherbet may lead to bloating or heaviness, especially if consumed quickly.
• Moderation is key. Excessive intake may cause a sensation of fullness or flatulence.

With its ancient roots in Indian medicine and numerous therapeutic applications, the bael fruit remains a timeless herbal remedy in modern holistic wellness.