Bael fruit (Aegle marmelos)
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
Indian bael, an indigenous plant of India, has spread over wide areas of southeast Asia. This plant has use in traditional medicine, such as that of India and Bangladesh. There is reputed medicinal use of the ripe fruit and unripe fruit, as well as the roots, leaves and branches. A familiar use is treatment for diarrhea, although antidiarrheal effectiveness lacks substantiation in the standard medical literature.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Dysentery (shigellosis) F
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to Indian bael or any of its constituents. Avoid dosages that exceed those of use in traditional medicine. Indian bael in large quantities theoretically may result in digestive complaints and constipation, given that tannins are constituents. Use cautiously if taking hypoglycemic agents or thyroid hormone, herbs for thyroid disorders, or herbs that may exacerbate or induce hyperthyroidism. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding as Indian bael leaves have been traditionally used to induce abortion and to sterilize women (theroretical).

Possible side effects:
The contemporary medical literature does not include reports of adverse effects from Indian bael, and the only clinical study did not include assessment of the safety of Indian bael, as its powdered unripe fruit, which was an ineffective treatment for shigellosis.
Constipation, digestive complaints.

Possible interactions:
Antihyperglycemic agents, thyroid agents, and herbs and supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adults (18 years and older):
Fruit powder: According to secondary sources, 2-12g has been taken by mouth, although the duration was not noted.
Decoction: According to secondary sources, 28-56mL has been taken by mouth, although the duration was not noted.
Infusion According to secondary sources, 12-20mL has been taken by mouth, although the duration was not noted.

Children (younger than 18 years):
Not enough scientific data available.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.