Bael or wood apple also known as Bilva in Sanskrit. Bilva Tree is considered sacred in India, all parts of this tree are used in tonics and medicines. Bilva is “tridoshic,” meaning that it is beneficial for all the doshas — vata, pitta and kapha. It is also considered a cooling herb with laxative properties.
The fruit, rind and leaves have a high tannin content. Tannins help heal ulcers by forming a coating on the stomach mucosa.
When consumed in the form of a beverage, forms a coating on the stomach mucosa and helps in healing of ulcers. It helps heal ulcerated intestinal surfaces. The herb also has antispasmodic properties that ensure optimum gut function.
The abundance of potassium in Bilva 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 Bilva 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.
The high content of phytochemicals such as flavonoids attribute to the antioxidative properties of Bilva making it a potent fruit against heart and liver ailments, reduces high cholesterol and is also useful against various infections.
Bilva contains laxatives that keeps blood sugar levels in control, thereby helping in controlling diabetes.
Bilva being a rich source of iron acts as a natural blood purifier and increases red blood cell and hemoglobin count in blood. It is extremely beneficial for people suffering from anemia.