Aegle marmelos (Bael): Nutritional, functional and nutraceutical significance

Abstract

Aegle marmelos (commonly known as bael or wood apple) is a tree native to India and Southeast Asia. Various parts of this plant are useful for medicinal purposes, and the fruit can be processed into food products. This plant has greater importance in Ayurveda and is used in Panchang to treat diarrhea and dysentery. Bael plays a significant role in disease cure and management, and its therapeutic properties have been documented since ancient times. The rich composition of phytochemicals, including alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, terpenoids, and coumarins, imparts important gastrointestinal activity, as well as significant in-vivo effects. Other potential health benefits include anti-diarrheal, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as anticancer, anti-hyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective effects. The promising results from studies on bael bioactive compounds support their potential role in enhancing pharmacological activities. The pulp of the fruit is sweet along with some astringency, aromatic, and pale orange. Some value-added products made from unripe bael include sherbet (juice), murabba, and pudding, whereas products made from ripened bael include candy, squash, jam, and toffee. This review summarizes the literature and research carried out by different groups over the past few years, with a particular focus on how future research can further explore the plant's therapeutic importance for use in alternative medicine, herbal formulations, or the pharmaceutical industry.