Bilva (Aegle marmelos)
Family: Rutaceae
English Name: Bengal Quince
Synonyms:
- Shivadruma – Tree of Lord Shiva
- Bilva – Breaks Vata and Kapha
- Shriphala – Auspicious fruit
- Shandilya – Destroyer of diseases
Ganas (Charaka):
- Arshogna
- Sothahara
- Asthapanopaga
- Anuvasanopaga
Plant Description
- Medium-sized tree, approximately 10 meters tall
- Leaves are alternate and trifoliate
- Fruits are round (5–10 cm), gray to yellowish when mature
Chemical Composition
- Alkaloids
- Anthraquinones
- Coumarins
- Tannins
- Triterpenes
- Stem bark minerals: sodium, potassium, iron, phosphate, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, silica
Ayurvedic Properties
- Rasa (Taste): Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent)
- Guna (Qualities): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
- Veerya (Potency): Katu (hot)
- Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Ushna
Dosha Karma:
- Pacifies Vata and Kapha
- Mildly stimulates Pitta
Parts Used
- Fruit pulp
- Unripe fruit
- Ripe fruit
- Bark
- Root
Dose:
- Fruit powder: 2–12 g
Therapeutic Benefits
- Digestive Disorders: Chronic diarrhea, dysentery, ulcerative colitis, IBS
- Fever: Intermittent and chronic fevers
- Cardiac Support: Acts as a cardiotonic, beneficial in palpitations
- Metabolic Support: Useful in glycemic imbalance
- Anti-inflammatory & Antimicrobial: Supports gut and systemic health
Scientific Studies
- Anti-ulcer Activity:
Goel RK et al., Indian Journal of Experimental Biology (1997) - Antimicrobial Activity:
Rusia K., Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences (1988) - Hypoglycemic Activity:
Ponnachan PT et al., Indian Journal of Experimental Biology (1993) - Antidiarrheal / IBS:
Yadav SK et al., Indian Journal of Medical Research (1989) - Anti-inflammatory Activity:
Pitre S et al., Fitoterapia (1987) - Cardiovascular Effects:
Kakiuchi N et al., Planta Medica (1991) - Immunomodulatory Activity:
Abeysekera AM et al., Fitoterapia (1996)
Safety Information
- Generally regarded as safe in therapeutic doses
- Excessive intake in animal studies showed hepatic changes
- Should be used judiciously in high-dose or long-term therapy
Reference Sloka (Charaka Samhita – Sutra 25)
“Bilvam Samgrahika Deepaneeyam
Vata Kapha Prashamanam Sreshtam”
Meaning:
Bilva is an excellent digestive and absorbent herb, highly effective in pacifying Vata and Kapha, especially in gastrointestinal disorders.
Bilwa (Bael / Wood Apple – Aegle marmelos)
Bilwa is a highly revered medicinal tree in Ayurveda. Its leaves, fruit, bark, and roots are extensively used for promoting digestive balance, metabolic health, immunity, and systemic strength. It is especially valued for its role in gastrointestinal disorders and chronic inflammatory conditions.
Key Benefits of Bilwa
1. Digestive Health
- One of the most important Ayurvedic remedies for diarrhea and dysentery
- Unripe fruit: Strongly astringent; effective in diarrhea, dysentery, IBS, and ulcerative colitis
- Ripe fruit: Mild laxative; helps relieve constipation and supports gut tone
- Reduces abdominal pain, ulcers, acidity, and intestinal inflammation
2. Blood Sugar Management
- Leaf and fruit extracts may help regulate blood glucose levels
- Supports insulin secretion and glucose metabolism
- Useful as a supportive therapy in diabetes, under professional guidance
3. Immune System Support
- Rich in vitamins A, B, and C, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds
- Exhibits antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties
- Helps strengthen immunity and resistance to infections
4. Anti-inflammatory & Pain Relief
- Bark and roots are part of the Dashamoola group, widely used for inflammation
- Helps relieve joint pain, arthritis, fever, and systemic inflammation
- Bilwa oil is traditionally used for topical application in musculoskeletal pain
5. Heart & Cholesterol Health
- Potassium-rich content helps regulate blood pressure
- Supports healthy cholesterol levels
- Acts as a mild cardiotonic, useful in palpitations and cardiac weakness
6. Skin & Hair Health
- Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects help manage
- Acne
- Eczema
- Rashes and skin infections
- Beneficial for scalp health and reducing hair fall
7. Respiratory Support
- Leaf preparations help relieve cough, cold, bronchitis, and asthma
- Aids in clearing mucus and easing breathing
Ways to Use Bilwa
- Powder: Dried fruit or leaf powder mixed with warm water, milk, or honey
- Juice / Sherbet: Cooling, nourishing summer drink for digestion and hydration
- Pulp: Fresh or dried fruit pulp consumed directly
Important Precaution
Bilwa is generally safe when used appropriately. However:
- Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider before use if you are
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Taking medications for diabetes, blood pressure, or heart conditions
- Avoid excessive or long-term use without supervision