Bilva/Bel Patra/Vilvam/Koovalam/Bael tree

The Bel Patra plant (Aegle marmelos), also known as Bael tree or Wood Apple, is considered sacred in Hinduism and is widely used in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties.

Bel Patra Names in Different Indian Languages

• Sanskrit: बिल्व (Bilva), श्रीफल (Shriphala)

• Hindi: बेल पत्र (Bel Patra), बेल (Bel)

• Bengali: বেল পাতা (Bel Pata)

• Marathi: बेल पत्र (Bel Patra), बेल (Bel)

• Gujarati: બોર (Bor), બિલ્વ (Bilva)

• Tamil: வில்வம் (Vilvam)

• Telugu: మారేడు (Maredu)

• Kannada: ಬೇಲೆ (Bele), ಬಿಲ್ವ (Bilva)

• Malayalam: കൂവളം (Koovalam)

• Odia: ବେଲ (Bel)

• Punjabi: ਬੇਲ (Bel)

• Urdu: بیل (Bel)

Significance of Bel Patra

• Sacred in Hinduism: Offered to Lord Shiva, as it is believed to cool the deity’s energy.

• Ayurvedic Uses: Treats digestive disorders, diabetes, and respiratory issues.

• Fruits & Leaves: The fruit is used to make refreshing drinks, while the leaves are used in religious rituals and medicine.

Would you like to know more about its benefits or cultivation? 😊

Significance of Bel Patra (Bilva Leaves)

The Bel Patra (leaves of the Aegle marmelos tree) holds great religious, spiritual, and medicinal importance in Hinduism and Ayurveda.

1. Religious & Spiritual Significance

• Sacred to Lord Shiva:

  • Bel Patra is one of the most favorite offerings to Lord Shiva.

  • It is believed that offering three-leafed Bel Patra to Shiva pleases Him and removes sins.

• Symbol of Trinity (Trimurti):

  • The three leaflets represent Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

  • Also symbolizes the three qualities of nature – Sattva (purity), Rajas (passion), and Tamas (ignorance).

• Used in Hindu Rituals & Pujas:

  • Used in Shiva Puja, Rudrabhishek, and Maha Shivaratri.

  • Mantra for Offering: "Om Namah Shivaya" or "Om Namo Bilvapatraya Namah".

• Cooling Effect for Shiva:

  • Bel leaves have a cooling property, believed to calm the intense energy of Shiva.

2. Ayurvedic & Medicinal Significance

• Balances Doshas: Helps balance Vata, Pitta, and Kapha in Ayurveda.

• Improves Digestion: Used to treat constipation, diarrhea, and indigestion.

• Regulates Diabetes: Bel Patra helps control blood sugar levels.

• Boosts Immunity: Has antibacterial and antiviral properties.

• Cures Skin & Hair Issues: Used in Ayurvedic oils for skin and hair health.

3. Scientific & Environmental Importance

• Air Purifier: The tree releases oxygen and helps reduce air pollution.

• Sacred & Long-Lasting Tree: It is often planted in temples and homes for good fortune.

How to Offer Bel Patra to Lord Shiva

1. Take fresh, undamaged Bel leaves.

2. Wash them and inscribe "ॐ" (Om) or "राम" (Ram) on them.

3. Offer the leaves with devotion while chanting "Om Namah Shivaya".

4. Do not pluck leaves on Mondays or during evening time.

Conclusion

Bel Patra is more than just a leaf; it represents divine energy, purity, and health benefits. Whether in spirituality, Ayurveda, or ecology, its significance is deeply rooted in Indian traditions.