Wood Apple (Feronia limonia)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Rutaceae
• Common Names: Wood Apple, Elephant Apple, Kaitha, Kavit, Bael Fruit (not to be confused with Aegle marmelos)
• Parts Used: Fruit, leaves, bark, roots

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Description

Feronia limonia is a deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It produces a hard-shelled fruit with a pungent, aromatic pulp that has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine for digestion, respiratory health, and wound healing. The fruit is both consumed as food and utilized for medicinal purposes.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in Ayurveda as a digestive tonic and anti-diarrheal remedy.
• Employed in traditional Indian medicine for treating respiratory infections and asthma.
• Historically applied for wound healing and skin infections.
• The pulp is consumed to improve gut health and regulate bowel movements.

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Constituents

• Tannins
• Mucilage
• Pectin
• Flavonoids
• Essential oils
• Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)

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Actions

• Digestive tonic
• Antimicrobial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Expectorant
• Astringent
• Immunomodulatory

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Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
The fruit pulp helps soothe the digestive tract, reduce bloating, and regulate bowel movements. It is traditionally used for diarrhea, dysentery, and indigestion.

2. Respiratory Support:
Used to relieve cough, congestion, and asthma symptoms due to its expectorant and antimicrobial properties.

3. Wound Healing and Skin Care:
The leaves and bark are applied externally for cuts, boils, and skin infections.

4. Immune System Support:
Rich in antioxidants, wood apple helps boost immunity and protect against infections.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits:
Helps reduce inflammation in the digestive system, joints, and skin conditions.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Fruit Pulp (Edible):

• 1-2 tbsp mixed with water or milk for digestive and immune support.

Tincture:

• 2-4 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves or bark applied to skin wounds and infections.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally considered safe but should be used in moderation.
• Diabetes: The fruit contains natural sugars and should be consumed with caution by diabetics.
• Allergies: Rare but possible; discontinue use if allergic reactions occur.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Ayurvedic Medicine: Balances Vata and Kapha, but excessive consumption may increase Pitta.
• Traditional Western Herbalism: Considered cooling and astringent, beneficial for digestion and inflammation.

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Combinations

• For Digestive Health: Combine with fennel and ginger.
• For Respiratory Relief: Combine with tulsi and licorice root.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with neem and turmeric.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Fruit is collected when fully ripe, leaves and bark can be harvested year-round.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried fruit pulp, leaves, and bark in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Feronia limonia’s antimicrobial, digestive-supporting, and immune-boosting properties, reinforcing its traditional uses.

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Wood Apple remains a highly valued herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for digestive health, immunity, and skin support.