Bael, also known as ‘wood apple’, is an indigenous fruit of Indian subcontinent, where it grows because of warm climate. This fruit not only has religious-cultural significance but also has health benefits. People consume it as a fruit and juice in the summer to beat the heat. The outer layer (or the peel) of Bael is tough and has a distinct aroma. It’s a symbol of strength and energy, the best form of potassium for heart and a respite during the hot summer days.
What are the benefits of eating wood apples?
According to various studies conducted over the years, there are an array of medicinal benefits of bael fruit:
1. Antioxidant Properties: Research from multiple studies, conducted in different years, suggests that wood apple extracts possess significant antioxidant activity. These studies utilized various extraction methods and found that both wood apple pulp and leaves exhibit strong antioxidant activity. Furthermore, oral administration of wood apple leaf increased the activity of enzymatic antioxidants, indicating its potential to combat oxidative stress.
2. Anti-diabetic Properties: Studies conducted in 2009 and 2012 indicate that extracts from wood apple fruits and bark have significant anti-diabetic effects. These extracts were found to lower blood glucose levels in both fasted and fed subjects. Additionally, a 21-day trial demonstrated a substantial reduction in blood glucose levels with wood apple bark extracts, suggesting that bael fruit for diabetes has potential.
3. Anti-ulcer Properties: Research from various years, including 2009, 2010, and 2018, highlights the beneficial effects of wood apple fruit extracts on gastric health. Wood apple pulp was found to effectively inhibit gastric ulceration, while promoting faster wound closure in experiments. These effects are attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds in the fruit.
4. Anti-diarrhoeal Properties: A study from 2010 evaluated the bark extract of wood apple for its anti-diarrhoeal properties. The findings indicated significant anti-diarrhoeal activity, including a reduction in faeces weight and gastrointestinal motility. These results suggest that wood apple extracts could potentially serve as an effective treatment for diarrhoea.
In summary, wood apple exhibits a range of health-promoting properties, including antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-ulcer, and anti-diarrhoeal effects, making it a valuable fruit for overall human health.
Bael fruit is known for its numerous health benefits, particularly in improving digestion and boosting immunity. During the winter season, incorporating natural remedies like Bael fruit can complement other seasonal foods, such as peanuts, for overall wellness.
Are there any benefits of bael sharbat in summer?
Bael sharbat, or wood apple juice, offers a plethora of benefits during the scorching summer months:
1. Hydration: Bael sharbat is incredibly hydrating, making it an excellent choice to combat dehydration caused by excessive sweating in the heat.
2. Cooling Effect: The drink has a naturally cooling effect on the body, helping to lower body temperature and provide relief from the heat.
3. Digestive Aid: Bael sharbat is known for its digestive properties, helping to soothe the stomach and alleviate issues like indigestion and acidity, which can be aggravated during the summer.
4. Rich in Nutrients: It is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and B-complex, as well as minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium, which are vital for overall health, especially during the summer when the body’s requirements increase.
5. Boosts Immunity: The vitamins and antioxidants present in bael sharbat help boost the immune system, protecting the body from infections and illnesses that are common during the summer season.
7. Refreshing Taste: Apart from its health benefits, bael sharbat also offers a refreshing and delicious taste, making it a popular choice for quenching thirst and rejuvenating the body on hot summer days.
Be cautious when purchasing bael sharbat from fruit juice vendors, as they often add sugar to the drink. Despite the natural benefits of bael sharbat, the addition of sugar can nullify its positive effects. So, even though you might expect health benefits from drinking bael sharbat, the presence of added sugar can counteract those benefits.
Which is beneficial for heart patients: Bael fruit or bael juice?
For heart patients, bael fruit is generally considered more beneficial than bael juice. Bael fruit contains dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals, which can contribute to heart health by helping to regulate cholesterol levels and promote healthy blood pressure. The fibre content in bael fruit helps in reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, which is crucial for preventing heart disease. Additionally, the natural sugars present in the fruit are healthier than added sugars often found in store-bought fruit juices, which can have adverse effects on heart health when consumed in excess. However, moderation is key, as bael fruit, like any food, should be consumed as part of a balanced diet.
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