| Botanical Name |
Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa |
| Common Name |
Bengal Quince, Bael (Hindi), Vilvam (Tamil), Bilva (Sanskrit) |
Distribution
Throughout India |
Religious association
The Bilva tree is associated with Lord Shiva. Its trifoliate leaf or tripatra, is believed to symbolise the three functions of the Lord – creation, preservation and destruction - as well as His three eyes. The offering of the leaves is a compulsory ritual while worshipping Lord Shiva all over India.
The tree is also sacred to the Jains. The 23rd Tirthankara, Bhagwan Parasnathji attained enlightenment under a Bilva tree. |
Uses
Bilva is an ingredient in many Ayurvedic and Siddha formulations. Almost all parts of the tree have medicinal qualities. |