Winter Skin Conditions of Psoriasis and Ichthyosis

Betel leaf

Betel leaves play an important role in Indian tradition, customs and rituals. All auspicious Vedic functions or puja require betel leaves. It is believed that Lord Shiva and Parvati themselves had sown the seeds of paan in the Himalayan ranges.

Betel leaf is considered auspicious in Hindu religion. Betel leaf or Paan holds equal importance with other Hindu sacred trees and plants including Durva Grass, tulasi, bilva, etc.

One of the most important puja items in Hindu rituals is the betel leaf. Known as tambula in Sanskrit, the word owes its origin to the term ‘tamra’ that denotes copper which is red-colored. In other regional languages in India the betel leaf is known as pan, nagve, vetta or vettila. The betel leaf is used in pujas by Hindus for both spiritual and health reasons.

          Betel leaf is  good for digestion. It’s carminative, intestinal, anti-flatulent, and gastro protective properties made chewing the leaf after a meal very popular. The essential oil can be massaged on the stomach as it helps in the secretion of digestive acids and gastric juices. For children suffering from indigestion, boil betel leaf with a little pepper in water. Strain it, and give two teaspoons of this mixture to children twice a day for an instant cure. Betel leaf thus increases the body’s metabolism. This triggers circulation and stimulates the intestines to absorb vital minerals and nutrients. Waste gets removed easily through better sphincter performance. Better sphincter performance is also an outcome of the stimulation caused by betel leaf.

Betel leaf, or Paan, is a pretty commonly used leaf in India. Though its primary purpose is to be used as a mouth freshener, many people also use it for the numerous health benefits that it provides. It is really good for people suffering diabetes as it can regulate their glucose levels. It lowers your cholesterol and protects your heart. It has strong anti-cancer and anti-mutagenic compounds in it and can lower the risk of developing cancer. It has anti-microbial properties that can protect you from minor bacterial and fungal infections. It can help heal wounds, especially burn wounds. Betel leaves are also known to combat depression and can put you in a light, happy mood. They are great for your oral health as they not only fight bad breath but also help with protecting you from bacterial infections. It can prevent and control asthma. It is great for your gastric system. It can also be used to prevent malaria.

Ayurveda and science
According to Ayurveda, betel leaves contain certain elements which can help to cure diseases caused by air and bile. According to the Vaidyas in Sanskrit, betel leaf juice was often prescribed as a remedy for infected ears and pus formation and can cure a headache by applying it on the forehead.

A betel leaf contains vitamin C, iron, carotene, fiber, potassium, iodine and thiamine and hence is used widely in Aryuvedic medicines to prevent bad teeth, treat ulcers and acne, help in relieving coughing and even to cure respiratory disorders like bronchitis.

Uses of Betel Leaf

Betel leaves are commonly used as mouth fresheners in India. They are used as a base to wrap up various components of paan, including tobacco, betel nut, sugar syrup, and a few other components. Modern variations of this street favorite include chocolate syrup being poured in the center of the leaf along with all the traditional components. Paan has been used as a mouth freshener since ancient times and is more popular in some cities than in others. The leaf is rolled and wrapped up to create a conical shape and always ingested in one bite. It takes a long time to chew the entire leaf but the flavors and textures of this mouth freshener make it an interesting process. Paan is also used as a flavoring agent in many candies, food and drinks. It is also a popular flavor in hookahs. Paan flavored condoms are also a common sight in drug stores in India. Paan masala, a powdered mixture of paan flavor and tobacco, is also pretty common in India.

Acne Cure and Other Skin Disorders

Betel leaf is a good remedy for acne, black spots, etc. Its antimicrobial properties help to treat skin ulceration, allergies, itchiness, and body odor. Crush a few betel leaves and extract its juice, mix with a little turmeric and apply on the acne and allergies to find good relief. Betel leaves boiled in water can be used for washing face and skin to treat and prevent skin problems. Regular usage will help clear spots and acne within a few days. The powerful antimicrobial and antiseptic properties help to treat skin infections.