Betel leaves

Betel leaf or paan leaf belongs to the genus piper and its scientific name is Piper betel. Betel leaf is a heart-shaped perennial creeper and is found in tropical, sub-tropical countries like India, Sri Lanka,... These plants grow vines or lean on another tree, and may reach a height of 15 m. Betel leaf length is about 5-8 cm wide and 2-5 cm resembles a heart shape and bright green in color, Betel Leaves are valued both as a mild stimulant and for its medicinal properties. Betel leaf is mostly consumed in Asia, and worldwide by some Asian emigrants and holds a special place in the hearts of many Southeast Asian and South Asian communities. The betel leaf is predominantly consumed as betel quid or paan, which is a mixture of substances. The paan almost contains a betel leaf with two basic ingredients, either areca nut or tobacco or both, with lime (calcium hydroxide or calcium carbonate). Beyond their cultural significance, betel leaves also offer medicinal benefits, known for aiding digestion and providing relief from various ailments. Whether chewed in the traditional betel quids or used as a culinary ingredient, these leaves continue to captivate people with their unique flavor and aromatic charm, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.