Health Benefits and Therapeutic Potential of Bael (Aegle marmelos L.): A Comprehensive Review
Shubham Jain
Department of Horticulture, Eklavya University Damoh, India.
Deepak S Kore *
Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture Bengaluru, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka, 587104, India.
Suraj Luthra
School of Agriculture, Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand University, Dehradun Uttarakhand, India.
Yalal Mallesh
Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi, India.
Suchitra Dadheech
Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Bhilwara, MPUAT, (Udaipur), India.
Ramprakash Chandravanshi
Department of Horticulture (Fruit Science), College of Horticulture, Rajnandgaon, Mahatama Gandhi University of Horticulture and Forestry, Durg Patan (Cg), India.
Prabakaran S
Division of Plant Genetic Resources, The Graduate School, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa Campus, New Delhi 110012, India.
Gopa Mishra
Department of Fruit Science, FAS, SOADU, Bhubaneswar, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Bael (Aegle marmelos L.), a sacred and medicinal plant in traditional Indian systems, has gained increasing scientific attention due to its diverse health benefits and therapeutic properties. This comprehensive review aims to explore the medicinal potential of bael, highlighting its phytochemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities, along with its role in treating various ailments such as diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. The fruit, leaves, and roots of bael possess potent bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and coumarins, which contribute to its pharmacological properties. This review also discusses the molecular mechanisms underlying bael’s therapeutic effects, emphasizing its role as a natural remedy with minimal side effects. Future research directions and the development of bael-based nutraceuticals are considered for broader clinical applications.
Keywords: Phytochemicals, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and gastrointestinal disorders