Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Indian bael (Aegle marmelos) has a long history of use in traditional Indian medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda, for the management of digestive disorders such as dyspepsia (indigestion). Classical Ayurvedic texts recommend various parts of the bael plant—especially the unripe fruit and root—as remedies for symptoms like bloating, abdominal discomfort, and loss of appetite. The astringent, carminative, and digestive properties attributed to bael are thought to help regulate gastrointestinal function and soothe the digestive tract.

Scientific studies investigating bael's effects on dyspepsia are limited, but some preclinical research has suggested that extracts from bael fruit and leaves may have gastroprotective, anti-ulcer, and anti-inflammatory actions in animal models. These effects are hypothesized to arise from the presence of bioactive compounds such as marmelosin, tannins, and flavonoids, which may modulate gut motility and protect the gastric mucosa. However, well-controlled human clinical trials specifically targeting dyspepsia are few and often methodologically limited.

Overall, while traditional use is robust and some preliminary scientific findings are promising, the quality and quantity of clinical evidence are not strong enough to fully validate bael as a treatment for dyspepsia by modern standards. Its use remains primarily justified by historical tradition, with moderate supporting evidence from laboratory and animal studies.

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