A healthier gut means a healthier you. The optimal gut health is reflected in your behaviour and personality, and it also affects day to day activities. At times however, the normal equilibrium of the gut gets disturbed by several external factors like food, stress, sleep, climate, etc. This affects the normal gut functioning, which results in several digestive problems. Though a variety of medications are available to treat these problems, if you want to get rid of your digestive disorders in a natural way, bael (also known as wood apple) is a healthier option that you can always choose. This fruit works amazingly in treating digestive problems. These are some of the common gut related problems in which bael acts wondrously.
1. Indigestion
Bael fruit possesses potent digestive and carminative properties. This is why it is useful in combating common digestive problems, particularly by providing relief from flatulence and abdominal colic.
2. Constipation
Bael fruit is known to be the best natural remedy to treat constipation. It is loaded with fibre that increases peristaltic movement of the large intestine and thus makes easier to expel the feces. Moreover, this fruit is sometimes added with isabgol for an enhanced laxative action.
3. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is an indication of an unhealthy gut and bael has been used for the treatment of diarrhea since the time of Ayurveda. Experts say that a chemical known as tannin is present in high amounts in bael, lending it such properties. Moreover, antibacterial and anti-viral properties of bael also make this fruit a useful remedy for diarrhea.
4. Stomach and duodenal ulcers
Bael is known to be an effective home remedy for ulcers as well. This fruit possesses anti-inflammatory properties which reduce inflammation and swelling in the stomach and the duodenum. Research says that tannins and mucilage contents of bael reduces the secretion of gastric acids from the stomach and also helps to build up a mucosal lining within their inner walls. In this way, bael reduces ulcer formation and also provides relief from pain and burning sensation in abdomen. Thus, it proves beneficial in ulcer treatment.
Tips for bael intake
The pulp from a ripe bael fruit is scooped out and can be eaten plain or by making sharbat and smoothies. In addition, bael fruit can also be consumed as jams and jellies.
~ Ranjita Ganguly
