Dr Vikas Sharma
Bael is one of the most appreciated plants used in ayurvedic medicine by the Indian and other South Asian inhabitants in ancient history. According to the historical records, bael is used as a medicinal and food item since 5000?B.C. and known to human beings even when writing the famous Sanskrit epic-poem Ramayana. Ancient Ayurvedic scriptures also mention Bael as one of the ‘Dashamoolas’ i.e., roots having anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It is a middle-sized tree, with slender branches, pale brown bark that often oozes an edible gum. The leaves of bael are quite unique, trifoliate in shape which means each leaf consist around 4 to 12 pairs of side veins adjoining at the margin. The Bael fruits are globose in shape, with a hard exterior and it doesn’t split open even upon ripening. The raw fruits look greenish grey while the woody exterior turns yellow upon ripening. The ripened fruit contains aromatic pulp with around 10 to 15 seeds, enclosed in a sac filled with natural adhesive.
Each and every part of the tree has a therapeutic benefit. The fruit has Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter) and Kashaya (astringent) properties. It has Ushna Virya (hot potency) and Katu Vipaka (i.e., pungent metabolic property). It aggravates the Pitta doshas (digestion) and pacifies Vata (air) and Kapha (earth and water) Doshas. The fruit when taken unripe is very effective in improving digestion and preventing constipation. The ripe fruit has Madhura ras (sweet taste), but aggravates all three doshas. However, it plays a key role in treating and curing diarrhea and cholera. The roots of the plant prevent vomiting and nausea. Churna from the leaves of the plant balances the three doshas and is effective in preventing abdominal colic pain, dyspepsia and gastritis. Decoction of the stem or bark of the plant plays a key role in treating heart related ailments, improves digestion and treats rheumatoid arthritis.
Bael, is one of the medicinally treasured tree species and is also known as begal-quince, golden apple and stone apple in India and a sacred tree in places where Hindus lives. Bael trees are usually planted near temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and routinely worshiped by the devotees. Bael is one of the most appreciated plants used in Ayurvedic medicine by the Indian and other South Asian inhabitants in ancient history. According to the historical records, bael is used as a medicinal and food item since 5000?B.C. and known to human beings even when writing the famous Sanskrit epic-poem Ramayana. Bael mentioned in the renowned book Charaka Samhita, a comprehensive compilation of all the essential Ayurvedic information, which identified bael as a necessary item in Ayurvedic medicine. It holds much significance in Ayurveda due to its wide range of benefits.
Bael is loaded with a myriad of nutrients which include vitamins A, B1, B2, C and minerals calcium, potassium and iron. The host of plant compounds in bael is beneficial in treating tuberculosis, hepatitis, ulcer and digestive problems. Furthermore, it is also a good source of tannins which aid in treating cholera. Bel leaves are naturally antibiotic and antifungal, which is beneficial for health. The extract of Bel leaf can control cholesterol levels in the blood. The juice called Bel sherbet is also made from the tree’s fruit which holds high medicinal values.
High source of carbohydrates: Bael being high on carbohydrates provides ample amounts of energy to the body for carrying out various bodily activities. Consumed in a limited quantity, it helps the brain cells to work better, aid in digestion and keeps a check on the cholesterol level.
Rich source of vitamins and minerals: The abundance of potassium in Bael makes it an appropriate fruit for people suffering from hypertension. It prevents the arteries from hardening, thus reducing strokes and preventing heart ailments. The richness of potassium in bael helps to eliminate sodium through urine and also eases the tension on the blood vessel walls which helps in lowering the blood pressure and treating the various symptoms of hypertension.
Calcium being the second abundant element present in Bael is vital for bone health. It attributes to the strengthening of teeth, bones and prevents osteoporosis. It also plays a major role in controlling loss of blood in case of injuries. It also acts as a natural blood purifier and increases red blood cell and hemoglobin count in blood because it is rich source of iron. It is extremely beneficial for people suffering from anemia.
Rich source of Vitamins: Bael being loaded with Vitamins has innumerable health benefits. It is a rich source of Vitamins A, B and C and the presence of these multivitamins make Bael the number one choice among fruits in the treatment of eye problems, digestive disorders, heart ailments, skin diseases and by preventing the body against infections and enhancing the overall immunity. Antioxidants: The high content of phytochemicals such as flavonoids attribute to the anti-oxidative properties of Bael making it a potent fruit against heart and liver ailments, reduces high cholesterol and is also useful against various infections.
(The author is Associate Professor (Biochemistry), SKUAST-J).