Botanical Overview
Aegle marmelos (family Rutaceae) is a medicinal tree native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Commonly known as Bael, Bengal quince, golden apple, or stone apple, various parts including fruit, leaf, root, bark, and seed are used therapeutically.
Energetics
This species is considered warming in temperature and drying in moisture quality, with bitter, astringent, and sweet tastes. It is tonifying in action and influences the qi, blood, and fluid systems.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Astringent
- Carminative
- Digestive tonic
- Laxative
- Antimicrobial
Indications
Western
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Fever
- Respiratory infections
Syndromes
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
- Enteritis
- Upper respiratory tract infection
TCM
No reliable traditional Chinese Medicine applications identified.
Ayurveda
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Constipation
- Gastric pain
- Fever
- Cough
- Asthma
Syndromes
- Kapha and Vata disorders
- Pitta imbalance
- Agni diphanta (digestive fire weakness)
Unani
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Chronic constipation
- Respiratory ailments
Syndromes
- Su-e-mizaj (temperamental imbalance)
- Warmth excess conditions
Constituents & Mechanisms
Phytochemical constituents include alkaloids, coumarins, essential oils, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and digestive properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of dried fruit 5-10 g 2-3 times daily
- Powdered fruit pulp 1-3 g daily
- Leaf extract 2-4 mL tincture 1-3 times daily
- Infusion of root bark 2-5 g once or twice daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe at traditional doses, but caution during pregnancy is advised due to strong astringent and possible uterotonic effects. Avoid in severe constipation. May interact with antidiabetic and antihypertensive drugs; monitoring is recommended.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future (PFAF) Database – Aegle marmelos – Bael
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants Volume 1 (1999)
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India
- Phytochemistry and therapeutic uses of Aegle marmelos, Ethnopharmacology Review Journal (2017)