29/11/2020
Today's youngsters invariably reach out for quick fixes like Eno or capsules to address their usual post-meal issues like acidity and bloating, while the fragrant chewing gums after meals have become popular mouth fresheners. But there was a time when a commonly available natural herb acted as the panacea for all such post-meal problems. It was the humble betel leaf.
Since time immemorial, betel leaf has been considered very auspicious in Indian culture, as it signifies prosperity. It is usually gifted to family members, or exchanged among friends and relatives during special occasions, as it is believed to strengthen trust & relationships. However, apart from such cultural significance, there are a host of easily noticeable scientific benefits which helped it become an integral part of the daily lives of Indians for thousands of years.
One such significant benefit of betel leaf is that of its role as a post-meal natural supplement which helps in digestion. Thanks to its alkaline properties, it regulates pH levels of stomach acids, thereby acting as a natural anti-acidity agent, and prevents bloating (especially after heavy & spicy meals). Due to its anti-oxidant properties, it flushes out toxins efficiently from the digestive system, improving overall health in the long run.
It can also be combined with various other ingredients to address specific concerns, depending on the person's pitta & vata levels. For example, chewing betel leaf with gulkand provides a cooling effect on the body and prevents dizziness during hot summers, while lining a bit of slacked lime over the betel leaf helps in strengthening bones in the long run, and so on. Thus, Indians had been following the simple tradition of chewing betel leaf after meals for thousands of years, and reaping its immense benefits.
From the 20th century, as betel leaf got associated with to***co products like gutka, zarda, etc, modern Indians started looking down upon the normal betel leaf itself altogether, and thus the tradition witnessed significant decline. But by suddenly eliminating betel leaf from their lives altogether, the modern Indians actually ended up with a host of problems like acidity, bloating, indigestion, etc, leading to the influx of synthetic alternatives like Eno & tablets which have now invaded most Indian homes.
However, thanks to the recent efforts towards revival of this tradition, some popular restaurants have started offering betel leaf as part of their comprehensive lunch packages, thereby spreading further awareness about this miracle herb among today's youth. Also, due to growing interest in natural & holistic lifestyles, some of the health conscious Indians have begun to gradually embrace betel leaf as per Ayurvedic recommendations & guidelines.
By Guruprasad.
