Chewing a paan or betel leaf after meal is an ancient food tradition in India. After lunch or dinner, people usually make their way to the tiny paan shops to savour paan, while some make them at home by wrapping gulkand (rose preserve), chopped areca nut, dry roasted fennel seeds, coconut powder, honey, cloves and cardamom pods. But, did you know that this heart-shaped leaf is not only used to make paan?It is also known to have many health benefits and has been extensively used in Ayurveda. Yes, you read that right! According to Ayurveda, chewing paan after meals eases digestion as it increases secretion of digestive juices, reduces bloating of stomach, relieves constipation and destroys intestinal parasites. We tell you some amazing betel leaf benefits.
Chewing a paan or betel leaf after meal is an ancient food tradition in India.
Betel Leaf For Healthy Digestion
Betel leaf has properties that are carminative, gastro-protective and anti-flatulent, all of which are known to accelerate good digestion. It stimulates the release of saliva, which is the first step of digestion, as various enzymes in it break down food, making it easy to digest. But, if you don't like its strong mint-like flavour, the best way of reaping its benefits is by creating oil out of betel leaf and massaging it on your stomach, which will help the secretion of gastric juices and digestive acids. However, in the case of kids with digestive problems, the best way to make use of betel leaves is by boiling them with peppermint leaves in water. Strain the water and give it to the younger one daily for effective recovery.
Betel leaf has properties that are carminative, gastro-protective and anti-flatulent.
Betel Leaf For Constipation
Betel leaf is packed with vitamin C that helps the body get rid of free radicals. Moreover, the antioxidants help manage the pH level of stomach. All you have to do is to soak the betel leaf in water and store it overnight. Drink the water on an empty stomach next morning or you can just chew the soaked betel leaf.
Betel Leaf Reduce Gastric Pain
Betel leaf normalises the unbalanced pH level of the stomach that gives fast relief from gastric pain, acidity and pain aroused due to bloating problem. Moreover, it also keeps the duodenum clear of dangerous free radicals as well as toxins. This makes it very efficient in improving GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease).
Back in the days, paan was consumed due to its digestive properties. Those who felt heavy and bloated post any meal and had severe constipation issues, paan used to be a saviour for them. However, it is advised to maintain a gap of at least 30 minutes between consumption of paan and your meal.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
About Shubham BhatnagarYou can often find Shubham at a small authentic Chinese or Italian restaurant sampling exotic foods and sipping a glass of wine, but he will wolf down a plate of piping hot samosas with equal gusto. However, his love for homemade food trumps all.