Contents
Uses
People use bael for constipation and diarrhea.
Benefits
- Good for Digestion: Bel fruit is great for digestion because it helps to destroy worms in the intestine, and is a good remedy for digestive disorders. It is also recommended as a remedy for chronic dysentery. The trunk and branches of bel trees contain a gum-like substance called ‘Feronia gum’. This is commonly used to curing diarrhea and dysentery. Bel fruit is also recommended for people with peptic ulcer or piles since bel leaves contain tannin, which is known to reduce inflammation. The laxative property of wood apple also helps to avoid constipation and the subsequent, pain, discomfort and associated health risks of that condition. This, combined with the antifungal and antiparisitic activities, make bel fruit ideal for increasing digestive health.
- Blood Cleanser: As little as 50 mg of bel fruit juice mixed with warm water and sugar is recommended for blood purification and the removal of toxins that can cause extensive damage to the body. This reduces the strain on the liver and kidneys, which are the normal lines of defense against toxins.
- Effective for Ear Aches: The root of the bel tree is integral in the management and treatment of ear conditions and pain.
- Prevention of Scurvy: Deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) causes scurvy. Since Bel fruit is rich in vitamin C, it can guarantees that you do not develop scurvy, a potentially life-threatening condition. This high level of vitamin C also increases the strength and potency of the immune system, thereby protecting people who consume wood apples from a variety of microbial and viral infections.
- Good for Diabetic Patients: The ‘Feronia gum’, contained in the trunk and branches of the bel tree, counteracts diabetes by reducing the severity of the condition and helps to manage the flow, secretion, and balance of sugars in the bloodstream. By managing the insulin and glucose levels, it is possible to prevent the spikes and plunges that can be so dangerous to diabetics.
- Relief from Respiratory Problems: Leaves of the Bel fruit tree help people avoid chronic or recurring colds and related respiratory conditions. They also help in curing sore throat and treating chronic cough due to its function as an expectorant. It loosens phlegm and helps eliminate the buildup in the respiratory system.
- Energy Booster: One hundred grams of Bel fruit pulp provides 140 calories, and the nutrients found in that amount boost organ activity and metabolic speed. This all results in additional energy and reserves in the body. The high protein content also means that the body can heal faster and the muscles can grow stronger, further boosting energy reserves.
Cautions
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking bael if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Diabetes: Bael might lower blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes and takemedications to lower your blood sugar, adding bael might make your blood sugar drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar carefully.
Surgery: There is a concern that bael might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using bael at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Interactions
- None are recorded.
Other names
Aegle marmelos, Arbre de Bael, Bael Tree, Bel, Bel Indien, Bengal Quince, Bilva, Bilwa, Cognassier du Bengale, Coing du Bengale, Indian Bael, Manzana de Piedra, Membrillo de Bengala, Pomme du Bengale, Shivaphala, Stone Apple
References
Source: WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-164-bael.aspx?activeingredientid=164&activeingredientname=bael
Organic Facts, https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/health-benefits-of-wood-apple-or-bel-fruit.html