The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c5.s7.t1.2

c5.s7.t1.2

The *Ægle Marmelos* is held in great veneration by the Hindus. It is sacred to Siva whose worship cannot be accomplished without its leaves. Hence this tree is always met with near temples dedicated to Siva. It is incumbent on all Hindus to cultivate and cherish this tree, and it is sacrilegious to up-root or cut it down. The Hindu who expires under a bela tree, expects to obtain immediate salvation, notwithstanding that he may have committed innumerable sins.