Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa

Bael is the prevalent moniker for the genus Aegle. It is a reference name for Aegle marmelos: a member of Rutaceae family. Bael contains phytochemicals such as alkaloids, tannins, essential oils, gums, resins, coumarin, and polysaccharides that make it effective for a variety of diseases. Bael has a rich history deeply intertwined with various cultures and traditions. It is indigenous to India and comes from the Eastern Ghats and Central India. In Hindu culture, the Bael tree and its fruit are considered sacred and are often associated with the deity Shiva. In Ayurvedic medicine it is used due to its antimicrobial, anticancer, cardioprotective, antidiabetic, antifertility, antidiarrheal, and antiulcer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The fruit has a great potential for processing into value-added products, like juices, drinks, candies, jams, and teas. The cultural practices of this sacred plant of India are briefly described.