Betel
Betel
Betel (pronounced: /ˈbiːtəl/), is a vine belonging to the Piperaceae family, which includes pepper and kava. Betel leaf is mostly consumed in Asia, and elsewhere in the world by some Asian emigrants, as betel quid or in paan, with Areca nut and/or tobacco.
Etymology
The term "Betel" is derived from the Malayalam word Vettila, which means leaf of a vine.
Description
The Betel plant is an evergreen perennial, with glossy heart-shaped leaves and white catkin. The Betel plant originated from South and South East Asia (India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the East Indies, the Malay Peninsula, and parts of East Africa).
Usage
Betel leaves are used as a stimulant, an antiseptic, and a breath-freshener. In India and Sri Lanka a sheaf of betel leaves is traditionally offered as a mark of respect and auspicious beginnings. Occasions include, greeting elders at wedding ceremonies, New Year, and offering payments to musicians and Hindu priests.
Health Effects
Betel consumption is associated with several health effects. Betel alone is largely free of harmful effects, but when combined with tobacco, it can lead to oral cancers.
Related Terms
- Areca Nut: The seed of the areca palm, which is often used in conjunction with betel leaf in many Asian cultures.
- Paan: A preparation combining betel leaf with areca nut and sometimes also with tobacco. It is chewed for its stimulant effects.
- Piperaceae: The family of plants to which the betel plant belongs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Betel
- Wikipedia's article - Betel
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