Bael,-Aegle Marmelos

This is a Indigenous Fruit, its Outer shell is very hard but inside
Is a thick pulp with a strong aroma.
This flesh is eaten as such or dried to make a powder.
This is a fruit of Vedic era (800.-18oo B.C),mostly grown inside
Hindu Temple compounds, because its Leaves are offered
To Lord Shiva as pious offerings.
FOOD VALUE-per 100 gms of edible part
An analysis shows it has mineral and vitamin rich properties.
Calcium 85 mg Calorific value-137
Phosphorus 50 mg
Iron 0.6mg
Vit C 8mg
Carbohydrates-31.8%
Fibre-29%protien-1.8%
Charak –Samhita describes its medicinal properties in Sanskrit.
Stem, root, bark, leaves and fruit have medicinal virtues, in use for ages.
For Constipation
Ripe bael fruit has been the best laxative. It cleans and tones up intestines
And regular use results in evacuation of old accumulated faecal matter from the bowels.
The pulp can be directly eaten from a ripe fruit and about 60-70 grams
Should be enough for an adult.
It can be taken as Sherbat (syrup).
For Dysentry
Unripe or half ripe fruit is effective Food remedy for chronic dysentery.
Dried bael powder is recommended in such condition. Mucous in stool disappears after continuous use and most cases of colitis feel relief.
For Peptic ulcer
Infusion of bael leaves is an effective food remedy for peptic ulcers.
Its leaves are soaked in water overnight and taken in morning, resulting in
Its Tannin content reducing inflammation and healing ulcer.
Viscous content of Bael fruit forms a coating of gastric mucosa ,healing ulcers.
Respiratory Diseases
Its, leaf -juice mixed with warm water and black pepper, brings relief in
Respiratory spasm. It is a common practice in southern parts of India
to use it as a homely food remedy for timely relief in case of mild to
moderate breathlessness.