Benefits of wood apple fruit

Wood apple fruit, Nutritious indigenous fruit wood apple whose scientific name is Aegle marmelos and in English is called Wood Apple. Although not eaten like an apple, the nutritional value of wood apple is not less than that of an apple. This article discusses the benefits and harms of eating wood apple in detail.

Wood apple:

Wood apple, also known as “bael” in many parts of the world, is a unique and nutrient-packed fruit that offers a plethora of health benefits. This exotic fruit, native to India, has been revered for centuries in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. One of the key benefits of wood apple is its rich content of antioxidants, which play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals in the body, helping to prevent cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Moreover, wood apple is a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium, contributing to overall well-being.

Fiber

What sets wood apple apart is its impressive fiber content. Packed with both soluble and insoluble fibers, this fruit aids digestion, promotes a healthy gut, and helps prevent constipation. The natural fibers also contribute to weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Additionally, wood apple has been recognized for its potential in managing diabetes. The fruit’s low glycemic index helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a valuable addition to a diabetic-friendly diet.

Benefits of eating wood apple

Although the surface of the wood apple is hard and unattractive, ripe wood apples are very tasty to eat. Ripe berries contain a large amount of fiber, various natural components or phytochemicals beneficial to the body (such as polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, alkaloids, tannins, pectins, etc.) and about 36 percent carbohydrates, 7 percent sugar, 7.5 percent protein, and a small amount of fat. . Also, various minerals such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus, copper, iron along with vitamin A, vitamin B and vitamin C are available from wood apple. Benefits that can be obtained by eating wood apple are: (Sharma, 2022)

Eating wood apple

1. Bale has antibacterial and anti-parasitic properties that help in curing diarrhea and cholera. Wood apple can play a very beneficial role in curing diarrhea especially in children, travelers and people with weak immune system.
2. There is nothing better than wood apple sorbet to quench thirst and relieve fatigue on a hot summer afternoon. But the sugar content in the sherbet should not be too much or you can use honey instead of sugar.
3. Bale contains vitamin C which prevents scurvy. Vitamin C is a very important vitamin for healthy teeth and gums.
4. Betel plays a very beneficial role in keeping the digestive system functioning well. Constipation problems are eliminated by regular consumption of wood apple and the risk of ulcers is reduced.
5. The liver is the chemical laboratory of the human body where various reactions take place and helps in the elimination of toxins. Liver cells are damaged due to excess amount of toxic substances. Hepatoprotective activity of wood apple protects liver cells from damage.
6. Ripe wood apple or wood apple syrup helps to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL-low density lipoprotein) levels in the blood. Also, the antioxidant properties of wood apple peppers reduce the risk of heart disease. (Parmar, 2022)

Anti diabetic

1. Studies have shown that wood apple peppers have anti-diabetic properties, meaning wood apple peppers can play a role in controlling excess blood sugar levels. However, more studies are needed to confirm the use of wood apple’s herb for a diabetic patient. (Sharma, 2022)
2. Several studies have reported the anticancer properties of wood apple peppers. According to a recent study, wood apple peppers help reduce the risk of breast cancer in women. (Sharma, 2022)
3. Antifungal properties of wood apple pepper prevent fungal infections. In addition, the large amount of antioxidants present in the wood apple helps to lead a healthy life by increasing the body’s immune system.
4. Wood apple and wood apple syrup are safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. Eating wood apple increases the secretion of prolactin hormone in women’s body, which helps in increasing breast milk.

Wood apple juice

Wood apple juice stands out as a refreshing and nutritious elixir. Packed with essential nutrients, this juice is not only a delicious beverage but also a powerhouse of health. The natural sweetness of wood apple juice makes it a delightful alternative to sugary drinks, promoting a healthier choice for those seeking to quench their thirst. What sets wood apple juice apart is its rich content of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

This combination not only boosts the immune system but also aids in digestion and maintains a healthy heart. Furthermore, wood apple juice is renowned for its ability to cool the body, making it a popular choice during hot weather. Incorporating this natural and rejuvenating beverage into your daily routine can be a simple yet effective way to enhance your overall well-being. Embrace the goodness of wood apple juice and experience a tasty journey towards a healthier lifestyle.

Disadvantages of eating wood apple

As a fruit, there is no harm in eating wood apple. However, wood apple cannot be eaten in excess. Especially for diabetic patients, any sweet fruit including wood apple should be eaten in moderation. This is because wood apple peppers contain sugar that can raise blood sugar levels. Also, caution should be taken in consuming or using wood apples as medicine to treat any particular disease.

Because, according to the Unani and Ayurvedic treatment methods, raw and ripe wood apple, wood apple leaves and even the bark of the wood apple tree are said to be beneficial for various diseases, but there is a lack of sufficient research in this regard. More research is needed to know definitively the medicinal properties of wood apple and its use in pharmaceuticals.

As a native fruit, wood apple is a little neglected but undoubtedly wood apple is a very useful fruit that benefits our body in many ways by eating it. And so develop the habit of eating wood apple like other fruits or you can make wood apple syrup and eat it.

The right time to eat wood apple

Ripe bales are usually available during summer. Ripe wood apple or wood apple juice can be consumed at any time in the morning, afternoon or evening. There is a difference of opinion about whether wood apple can be eaten on an empty stomach, but in some cases, if there is no problem (such as acidity, flatulence, constipation etc.) by eating it on an empty stomach, then it can be eaten freely. But instead of eating wood apple syrup on the streets, walking in the market, you should eat it at home. Because there is dust and germs in the outdoor environment and there is doubt about whether clean water is being used.

Final Thoughts:

The wood apple fruit emerges as a true nutritional powerhouse, offering a plethora of health benefits that go beyond its exotic taste and aromatic qualities. From bolstering digestive health to fortifying the immune system, this humble fruit has proven itself to be a versatile ally in our quest for overall well-being.