The Bael fruit, in actuality, is an herb with the botanical name of Limonia acidissima. Baael fruit has other names like wood apple, elephant apple and monkey fruit. In some parts of the world, this fruit is called elephant apple because it’s a favorite food of elephants, while in other areas, it gets the name wood apple because of its hard wooden shell. It is actually considered sacred by Hindus, and is widely cultivated and eaten in India.

Nutritional Value of Wood ApplesThe vast array of health benefits that are attributed to wood apples are mainly due to their  nutrients, vitamins, and organic compounds, including their tannins, calcium, phosphorous, fiber, protein, and iron.Health Benefits of Wood ApplesBael fruit also has great medicinal value for those who consume it, whether they are aware of these benefits or not! Let’s take a closer look at the extensive health benefits of this interesting fruit!

  • Good for Digestion:Bael 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 bael trees contain a gum-like substance called ‘Feronia gum’. This is commonly used to curing diarrhea and dysentery. Bael 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 bael 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.
  • Prevention of  Scurvy:Deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) causes scurvy. Since Bael 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 bael fruit, 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 Bael 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 Bael 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.
  • Good for Kidney Conditions:Regular consumption of wood apple is recommended for people with kidney complaints. Considering the detoxifying powers of wood apples, the kidney and liver can be protected if the correct organic compounds from wood apples are kept at healthy levels.
  • Liver Health:As a good source of beta-carotene, wood apples also cure liver problems. They contain thiamine and riboflavin, both of which are known as liver health boosters, this fruit also functions as an ingredient in cardiac tonics.

Bael Shake Recipe 

Ingredients 

  • Bael fruit ripe – 1
  • Milk – ½ - 1 cup
  • 1-2 dates and 12-15 kishmish
  • Water ½ cup

Method

  • First break the Bael fruit and scoop out the fruit pulp with the help of a spoon. 
  • Take the pulp and water in a large deep bowl take out the juice using blender.
  • Mix bale fruit juice, milk, dates and kishmish, blend them well and strain the milkshake through strainer to get smooth milkshake.
  • Serve chilled. (you may add nuts and seeds as per recommended)