Introduction

Bael (Aegle Marmelos) is a medium-sized tree, native to the Indian subcontinent and Asia. It grows up to the height of 15-20 meters with green, glossy, trifoliate leaves forming an umbrella-like canopy.

Fruit is the most notable part of the Bael tree commonly known as the golden apple, woody apple, Bengal quince, or stone apple.

The fruit, leaves, and flowers of the Bael tree have been used for various medicinal purposes since ancient times. Bael tree has religious significance in Hindu and Buddhist cultures, so it is often planted around temples. The leaves of the Bael tree resemble the shape of a trident and are used in religious offerings for the Hindu god Lord Shiva.

Nutritional profile of Bael tree

Here is the general overview of the nutritional profile of various parts of the Bael tree.

Vitamins

Bael contains vitamin A, Vitamin B complex (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and folate), and Vitamin C.

Minerals

Bael contains minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorous.

Antioxidants

Bael contains polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids which function as good antioxidants helping to neutralise harmful free radicals.

Fibre

Bael is rich in both soluble and insoluble dietary fibre.

Water

Bael has a high water content, helping to keep the body hydrated.

How does the Bael tree help in wound healing?

The important benefit Bael trees serve is that they reduce the time needed for wound healing and further reduce the chance of further complications. Below are a few of the factors which help the Bael tree to play this role.

1. Presence of bioactive compounds with antimicrobial properties

Very often it has been observed that the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms delays wound healing. Various clinical studies have found that compounds present in the Bael tree-like tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, and alkaloids inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms.¹ This reduces the wound healing time and the chances of complications due to secondary infections. 

2. Reduction of inflammation

In the initial stages of the wound, inflammation is helpful for wound healing but if this inflammation remains prolonged or gets excessive, it creates the reverse effect. Bael tree contains compounds capable of regulating this immune response and reducing inflammation if it gets excess or prolonged.

3. Synthesis of collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein found in the human body. It provides the structural support required for new tissue generation for wound closure and healing. Bael tree contains vitamin C ² which has been found to promote collagen synthesis in research studies.³

4. Antioxidants 

Bael contains Flavonoids and triterpenoids, These compounds have astringent and antimicrobial properties, helping to speed up the wound healing process and antioxidant actions help to prevent damage caused by free radicals.

In which skin conditions Bael can be useful?

1. Dermatophytosis/ Fungal (Tinea, Ringworm) infections

Research has found that Bael leaf extracts significantly inhibit the growth of most dermatophytes.⁴ Dermatophytes are a group of fungi causing skin infections (dermatophytosis). More research is needed to incorporate these properties of Bael for treating fungal infections.

2. Acne, dark spots on skin

In ancient cultures traditionally a paste made from tender leaves of the Bael tree mixed with turmeric was used to treat acne and dark spots.⁵ The paste can be applied for an hour before taking a bath.

3. Eczema

Bael provides a soothing effect due to its hydrating and moisturizing properties. This makes it useful for relief from itching, irritation, and inflammation in eczema.

In research done on remedies used in traditional medicine for skin orders, it has been found that a paste of Bael leaves was prepared by mixing it with a few drops of water and applied to the skin twice a day for two to three days to get relief from itching.⁶

4. Psoriasis

In animal studies, it has been found that Bael flower extract is effective in reducing inflammation owing to its anti-inflammatory properties. Bael flower extract can be used to relieve symptoms of redness, itching, and inflammation in psoriasis.⁷

5. Skin rejuvenation 

Bael fruit pulp is rich in antioxidants, so it is useful to prevent damage caused by free radicals and rejuvenate the skin.

How to use Bael for skin and wound healing?

You can use the following Bael remedies, they can be prepared at home if you can source original parts of the Bael tree or use readymade Bael formulations available in the market. However, make sure you do a patch test before using any of these formulations to check if you are not allergic to any of the ingredients.

1. Bael mask

To prepare a homemade Bael mask, Scoop out the pulp from the Bael fruit, mash it into a smooth paste, and apply directly to the face for 10-15 minutes. Being rich in antioxidants and vitamins provides nourishment and a healthy glow to the skin.

2. Bael scrub

You can prepare homemade scrub by mixing dried Bael fruit powder with sugar or oatmeal. This exfoliating scrub removes dead skin cells and brightens up the skin.

3. Bael toner

 Soak the Bael leaves in water overnight and use this infusion as a face toner. It helps to reduce inflammation, clears up the acne, and tightens pores.

4. Bael massage oil

Bael fruit oil mixed with coconut or almond oil reduces dryness, irritation, and improves skin elasticity.

5. Bael bath soak

Adding a few drops of Bael essential oil to your bath water makes a relaxing soak helping to reduce skin irritation and inflammation.

Possible side effects of Bael tree products

Although Bael is relatively safe to use if appropriate dosage and usage instructions are followed, some people may experience 

1. Allergic reactions

If you experience itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing after consuming or applying Bael tree preparation discontinue use and seek immediate medical assistance.

2. Digestive issues

 If consumed in excess, unripe or unprocessed Bael fruit may cause gas, bloating, and diarrhoea.

3. Hypoglycemia

Bael fruit may lower blood sugar so people on diabetes medicines need to be cautious and seek medical advice before consumption.

4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding 

Limited data is available about the safety of Bael fruit consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding so you need to seek medical advice before using it in these circumstances.

Precautions to be taken before using Bael tree products 

1. Patch test

Before using any bale-based product apply it on a small area of skin and wait for 24-48 hrs to check if any allergic reaction occurs. If any redness, inflammation, or itchiness develops discontinue use and seek advice,

2. Dilution

Make sure you dilute Bael essential oil by mixing it with carrier oil like coconut or almond oil before using it as it is very potent if used on its own.

3. Exposure to sun

Avoid exposing the skin to the sun or use sunscreen when using Bael products as it may cause sunburn due to photosensitivity.

4. Quality

Ensure you use products made from quality ingredients and follow appropriate storage guidelines.

FAQ’s

1. In which skin conditions can the Bael tree be useful?

Bael tree has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties so it is useful in skin conditions like dermatophytosis (fungal infections like tinea, and ringworm), dermatitis, eczema, acne, blemishes, and psoriasis. it also serves as a good anti-aging agent being rich in antioxidants.

2. How does the Bael tree help in wound healing?

Bael tree reduces excess and prolonged inflammation, prevents the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, and promotes the synthesis of collagen. All these activities speed up the wound-healing process and reduce the chances of complications.

3. What is the best way to use Bael as a home remedy?

Bael fruit juice is the easiest remedy which can be prepared at home. To prepare Bael fruit juice, scoop out the pulp from Bael fruit, soak it in water till it softens then mash the pulp and strain it to get clear juice. You can add sugar or lemon juice for extra flavour.

Summary

Bael (Aegle Marmelos) is a medium-sized tree, native to the Indian subcontinent and Asia, bearing pear-shaped yellow fruit with orange pulp encased in a hard woody shell.

Fruit is the most notable part of the Bael tree commonly known as the golden apple, woody apple, Bengal quince, or stone apple.

The fruit, leaves, and flowers of the Bael tree have been used for various medicinal purposes since ancient times all have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

The important benefit that Bael trees serve is in the process of wound healing. It reduces the time needed for wound healing and the chances of further complications.

Bael fruit is rich in various vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants. Due to its high water content, it has hydrating and moisturising properties which are beneficial in skin conditions like dermatophytosis (fungal infections), eczema, acne, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

Bael fruit drink is the most commonly used home remedy prepared by soaking the fruit pulp in water and straining it after mashing it. Dried Bael leaves powder, Bael essential oil, Bael fruit mask, and Bael leaves infusion are other preparations of Bael tree that can be prepared at home or purchased in the market. Evidence has been found that Bael has been used traditionally for its wound healing and skin nourishing properties in many cultures since ancient times. More research is needed to establish the potential and utilisation of the Bael tree in enhancing wound healing and skin rejuvenation.