ॐ Hindu Of Universe ॐ
“God’s light is within you, It never leaves you.”
Hinduism has a plethora of rituals and customs.
Most of them can provide us with a lot of benefits.
During the pujas and other ceremonies, we use several items.
Supari is one such ingredient that plays a pivotal role in Hindu rituals.
Here, we will look into the origin, meaning, and significance of Supari in Hinduism.
The origin or when people started to use Supari as part of religious ceremonies is unclear.
However, it has been in use for quite some time.
There are a few references to the usage of Supari in Hindu rituals in some ancient texts and Ayurvedic books.
However, they do not provide any apparent description of the same.
Supari is also known as Betal or Areca Nut.
Poogi Phal is the Sanskrit word of Supari, and Supari is its Hindi word.
Betel nut is the seed of Areca Palm, and it is round as well as woody.
Whenever we use Betel nut for our pujas, we have to use it in wholeness.
We must not break it as it would reduce the benefit of using a Supari.
There are mainly two types of Supari available.
They are Chhaliya
Supari and Puja Supari.
Chhaliya Supari is round, and we can use it to worship Lord Ganesha.
Devotees often use Puja Supari to offer their prayers to all the Gods and Goddesses.
Supari also plays a highly beneficial role in Ayurveda.
It can also be helpful in salivation and improving digestion.
Supari can aid in stimulating your appetite as well.
Significance of Betel nut in Hinduism:
Supari or betel nut is a pure substance that can facilitate our connection with Divine entities.
It is a symbol of loyalty and a strong bond, as well.
We can place Supari along with Paan in Havan Kunda before we start a puja or Yagna.
Here, we will look into some of the significances of Supari or Betel nut in Hinduism.
- You can use Betel nut during your prayers, especially in Shiva Puja. After you offer Gangajaal, Panchamrita, clothes, and money to the deity, you can give Supari.
You have to provide it along with Janeu and Cloves. You can use Supari for Phulaish Puja as well.
Devotees conduct Phulaish Puja to find out whether their wishes would become fruitful.
2. We can use betel nut in a ritual while we are establishing a deity.
It is ritualistic to chant mantras while performing the same.
We can use Supari when we do not have an image of God or Goddess. Supari can act as the symbol of Brahman, Varunadev, Indradev, Yamadev, and other deities also.
It can also act as a representation of different planets, including Mangal, Rahu, Ketu, Surya, etc.
3. We can use betel nut to depict human beings as well.
While we are performing certain pujas or ceremonies, there is a need for some close relatives to be present.
During their absence, we can always consider them as Supari.
We can cover it with clothes and place it as a representation of the husband, wife, or parents.
It is equal to their presence throughout their ritual.
4. We know that betel nut has a hardcover that we cannot break easily. When we offer Supari to the Gods and Goddesses, we try to remove the negative feelings present in our lives.
It is a depiction of giving away our alter ego.
5. In most Hindu households, people offer Supari with Janeu, betel leaves, and cloves to their guests.
In some parts of India, people provide it during auspicious occasions like weddings and festivals.
It is a way of seeing off the guests and thanking them for visiting.
6. Betel nut helps us in invoking the blessings of Lord Ganesha. We can use Supari while conducting our prayers for Lord Ganesha.
When we organize pujas for Lord Ganesha, it also helps in gaining the benefits from Goddess Lakshmi.
We can cover the Supari with Mauli thread and place it on a betel leaf.
We can then keep it along with Akshata rice grains while we have the prayers for Lord Ganesha.
In some temples, we cannot take Supari as a Prasad.
We have to put it in a water body.
However, when we receive a Supari after worshipping Lord Ganesha, we can place it in our Puja rooms.
We can use it as part of our daily prayers.
7. Supari or Betel nuts play an essential role in Sankalapas or visualizations. Devotees use it as a part of their Japas as well.
We give it along with the Dakshina to the priests who have performed a ritual or ceremony.
It is a way of thanking their service and loyalty.
8. Supari plays a significant role in Kalash Puja.
With the accompaniment of the mantra and usage of Supari, Kalash Puja can provide us with positive benefits.
Devotees perform it by chanting this mantra:
Edam Phalam Mayaa Samyak Prakshipet Kalashe Yatah
Teenayam Kalashah Samjak Phalwaantu Saravadaa.
These are some of the significances associated with using Supari in Hindu ceremonies and rituals.
You can use it as a representation of deities.
You can also use Supari to invoke the blessings of Divine entities.
It can act as a factor to connect us with the realm of divinity and auspiciousness.
Why is the Betel Leaf (Paan Patta) So Significant in Hindu Traditions?
Betel leaves are as important as the sacred Tulsi plant which is worshiped in many households.
A symbol of prosperity, a magical ingredient of Ayurveda and an important part of religious customs and traditions, the refreshing and evergreen creeper, commonly known as Paan Patta, holds a special place in Hindu tradition.
Native to South-East Asia, betel leaves are as important as the sacred Tulsi plant which is worshiped in many households.
But we never think of the reasons behind the connection of betel leaf with many traditions despite the fact that it is used in almost every religious custom.
Rituals performed with betel leaves
In South India in a region known as ‘old Mysore’, it is a tradition to offer two betel leaves to the guests on every auspicious occasion.
Also, a betel nut and a coin are placed on a betel leaf to be offered as dakshina for priests and elders in South India.
Likewise, Assamese offer a betel leaf to guests after having a meal.
It is a custom to chew paan ke patte especially after meals as it acts as a digestive.
Betel leaves are also used to embellish the Kalash (pot) used for performing various religious rituals as it purifies the water.
Mythological Bond
According to Ramayana, the time when Shri Hanuman reached Lanka to convey the message of Lord Ram to Sita Devi, she gave him a garland made with betel leaves when she couldn’t find anything else to offer him as a token of delight and appreciation. This is why people offer betel leaves while worshiping Shri Hanuman.
In Mahabharata also, the betel leaf played a significant role.
It is believed that Arjun was asked to acquire a betel leaf after his victory the over evil powers in Rajaugya Yagnya by the priests that was needed to start the Yagnya.
Since there were none available in that area, Arjun had to go to the Kingdom of Snakes Nag Lok and ask the queen to give him a betel leaf.
This is why the betel leaf is also known as Nag-Velli or Nagarbel.
Symbol of marriage and love
According to the traditions in many South-East Asian countries, a combination of Betel leaf and Areca nuts is inseparable as they symbolize loyalty in love and a strong bond. Thus, it became a tradition to chew a betel leaf and Areca nut when the bride and groom’s parents talk about their wedding plans for the first time to impart good luck.
There is also a very famous saying in Malayan, “bagaikan pinang dibelah dua“ which means that the newly wedded couple is now compatible to each other just like the betel leaf when divided in half.
It is also considered to be a symbol of fertility and is used in many traditions of Indian weddings. 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, fibre, 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.
Importance And Symbolism Of Betel Nut In Hindu Pujas
Betel nut is an important item in most Hindu Pujas and like all object there is symbolism for it too. Some communities establish the murti of Ganesha and Goddess Gauri in Betel nut.
The belief is that Betel is a complete fruit and is pure.
In South India, betel leaf and betel nut is a must for giving Dakshina to Guru and elders.
In some regions, holy thread is also offered to betel nut.
Some people also keep betel nut inside the vault where money, gold and property documents are stored.
In olden days, betel nut was considered very pure as it had a natural coating.
In North India, this natural coating was removed in the presence of the murti and offered as a pure offering.
The ritual is still followed but sadly most often we end up offering unclean ones or reused ones.
In South India, the offering is always made without removing the outer covering of the betel nut. It is an important item during marriages, housewarming etc. Betel Nut Symbolism
As per Hinduism, Supari symbolically represents Ganesha or Ganapati, the lord of success and remover of obstacles.
In some regions, Supari also represents Goddess Lakshmi.
In Hinduism, Supari is considered as Nirgun Nirakar Vigraha or murti. It means nature given formless bodies that are representatives of God’s nirakar nirlep niranjan form.
Significance of Paan Leaves in The Hindu Religion
Paan or Betel leaf plays a significant role in the religious life of Hindus.
It is because no propitious Vedic event is complete without a ritual involving Paan.
The most critical puja items in Hindu rituals is also known as Tambula in Sanskrit.
The word lends its origin to the term Tamra which literally means copper which is red in color.
The color red because of the Kaththa.
Skanda Purana notes that the gods acquired the betel leaf during the churning of the ocean for the ambrosia.
Another religious anecdote goes that when Shri Hanuman conveyed Shri Rama’s message to Sita Devi, she ornamented Shri Hanuman with a betel vine as a symbol of her happiness and appreciation.
The principal reason that it is mandatory for pujas is that Hindus trust the betel leaf to possess different deities.
Specifically,
- Shukra and Indra reside in the leaf’s top portion.
- Goddess Saraswati is present in the middle part.
- Goddess Mahalakshmi occupies the lower tip.
- The part that bridges the betel leaf to the stem is home to Jyesta Lakshmi.
- Lord Vishnu lives inside the leaf.
- Kamdev and Lord Shiva inhabit outside of the leaf.
- Mangalya Devi and Goddess Parvati live on the left side.
- Bhoomidevi or Mother Earth lodge in on the right side
- Lord Suryanarayana is all around the leaf.
Also, a classic folk marriage song from eastern India distinguishes the Himalayas as the birthplace of Paan.
It is said that Lord Shiva and Parvati themselves had sown the Paan seeds in the Himalayan ranges.
In the southern part of India, Dakshina to elders and priests is given by placing a coin and betel nut in the betel leaf.
All pujas contain betel leaves and betel nuts.
It is pertinent to mention that betel leaves that are dry, torn, or with holes in the middle are not fit for pujas.
In the Hindu ceremonial occasion, a ritual named Briddhi-Shraddha is observed whereby the bride-groom call forth the parted souls of their ancestors; and in the spiritual presence of them, the bride and the groom accept one another.
At this point, 32 betel leaves are compulsorily required.
Lastly, according to Rajnirghantha, the tip of the betel leaf signifies longevity, the basal portion is for repute while Goddess Lakshmi (the Goddess of wealth) resides in the middle part.
Therefore, chewing pan’s middle part is a taboo to the Hindus.
Significance of Betel Nuts in Pooja.
The betel nut is an integral part of the daily or ritualistic Pooja.
It is also popularly used in the age old-custom of Indian eating.
The supari is symbolic of the nut of the ego that must be offered on the altar of God.
It represents the hard, coarse qualities that must be surrendered to God, leaving only the soft, pure qualities.
Mostly symbolic the Supari is many a times traditionally represented as the Nine planets (in the Navgrah Pooja) and takes the form of Deities like Brahma, Surya and others during different Poojas.
The betel nut can also represent a human being.
In Maharashtra, the wife’s presence is must at important religious rituals.
But if she is away or dead, a betel nut wrapped in a cloth can represent her.
In Bengal, betel nut is believed to carry magical properties.
it is placed under the pillow at night so that the sleeping person can see his future in dreams.
Betel nuts are believed to increase prosperity and they are tied to the pandal, the grinder, the pounding stone, large utensils and the bridegroom’s clothes.
In North-West India, milk and cooked rice is offered to the village deity when betel nut trees are planted.
This is called Deonar pooja. In Vikrampur, Goddess Bhagawati is worshipped as a mark of respect for the betel nut.
Significance of Betel Leaves and Areca Nuts in Indian Weddings
Indian weddings are filled with numerous ceremonies and rituals that have been followed since time immemorial.
Although you find many different customs pervading across the country, some ceremonies and rituals are the same everywhere.
One such ritual is the use of betel leaf.
The use of betel leaves and areca nuts is a prominent ritual, especially in South India. The use of these two items in weddings dates back to 400BC.
Because of its medicinal value, the leaves and nuts have been mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic books.
Due to these properties, elders in India and other South Asian countries chew them as a mouth freshener and as an aphrodisiac.
The Tradition of Betel Leaves
Apart from using in poojas, betel leabes and areca nuts are used extensively during weddings.
The bride and groom seek blessings from elders by prostrating at their feet and presenting them with these two items along with some money.
This ritual is called ‘dakshina’.
Indians considered it to be an auspicious start to a wedding.
In some places, the hosts welcome the guests with these two items, similar to the way we offer drinks.
Many events tailing from Hindu culture makes use of the betel leaves prior to the commencement of the event, as a mark of freshness and prosperity.
In Bengal, weddings are finalized when the husband and wife swap a brass container topped with betel nut leaves.
In Rajasthan, the relatives of the bridegroom eat only after serving betel leaves to all guests.
There is another underlying fact to the use of these two items in weddings; In South India, elderly folk chew betel leaves to pass time.
So, presenting it to the elderly is also a sign of respect and reverence.
The Significance of Areca nuts and Betel Leaves
Betel leaves, along with the areca nuts, symbolise love in weddings.
As marriage is a bond that lasts forever, the leaves and nuts together represent the idea of a married couple who are forever together.
In some traditions, the newlyweds chew them together to symbolise their love.
The combination of the leaves and nuts signify fertility according to Hindu belief.
The leaf signifies the female principle, while the nut signifies the male principle.
The leaves and nuts also represent commitment or oath.
Hence, their exchange seals wedding ceremonies.
There are many interesting traditions in different parts of India regarding the use of betel leaves.
Paan is a combination of these two items.
It is a common offering to Gods during a pooja or bhoj.
Similarly, customary Paan is offered to guests at any functions, after the end of every feast.
Benefits, Significance and How to Grow
This blog has covered key facts about betel nut trees, varieties, growing tips and more.
In India, the Betel nut tree is popularly known as the supari tree.
The fruit from this tree is primarily consumed in India.
The plant is native to India’s south and southeastern regions in Asia.
Most commonly, the seed from the areca nut tree is consumed in tobacco, lime, and other herbs.
Betel nut tree holds great religious importance as it is believed that various Hindu gods and goddess resides in different parts of the tree.
It is a pure substance that facilitates connection with gods.
Supari is a symbol of strong bonds and loyalty.
Not only religious significance, but the plant also has medicinal benefits.
This blog has covered key facts about betel nut trees, varieties, growing tips and more.
Betel Nut Tree: Key Facts
Following are the key facts about the betel nut tree:-
Particulars Description Name
Betel nut tree, Areca nut palm Other names Supari tree, or Dypsis lutescens
Family of betel nut tree Arecaceae
Origin India, South and Southeast Asian regions
Soil required Light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils
Temperature 18-26 °C
Sunlight Bright, indirect light
Height Up to 20 meters, leaves grow up to 3 mtr in length
Time of planting June to December
Flowers Small, yellow or orange
Indoor/Outdoor Both outdoors and indoors Betel Nut Tree: How to Grow and Maintenance Tips
Betel nut or areca nut tree is found in tropical areas like rainforests in southeast Asia. If you wish to grow the tree in your house garden, follow the instructions:-
- Location: The location of the betel nut tree should have good soil drainage, sunlight and partial sunlight.
- Hole size for the plant: A betel plant should be planted in a twice-sized hole, and the depth should be as deep as the root.
- Watering: The plant should be watered regularly, and the soil should be moist and not soggy. If appropriate water is not poured, then it can cause the leaves to turn yellow and dry them up.
- Fertiliser: Every two months, a balanced fertiliser should used. This will help grow the tree.
- Prune off damages: To maintain the healthy growth of betel nut trees, prune off any dead or damaged parts.
- Soil: Soil mix should include peat moss, perlite, and coconut coir. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH of around 6.0 to 6.5.
- Light: The Areca nut tree prefers direct sunlight. Even if you plant it inside the house, ensure it is in direct sunlight.
- Temperature: Betel nut tree prefers warm and high humidity temperatures.
- Cold temperature: The Areca nut tree is not tolerant to frost, so protect it from freezing temperatures. If you live in a cold area, try keeping it indoors where the temperature is normal.
Types of Betel Nut Tree
Following are several areca nut palm trees:-
- Areca macro calyx or Highland betel nut:
The most common areca nut palm is the Highland betel nut grown in India and other South Asian countries.
The nuts in this plant are small and round with a bright red outer cover.
- Areca catechu: Another commonly grown betel tree in India and Bangladesh is Areca catechu.
The outer husk of this plant’s fruit is yellow or brown, and its shape is oval.
- Areca vestiaria: Areca vestiaria is grown in the Philippines, producing large oval-shaped nuts.
- Areca triandra: Commonly found in Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia,- Areca triandra- produces yellow flowers and contains small round fruit.
- Areca lutescens: This variety of betel nut palm is native to Madagascar.
The leaves of the plant resemble butterfly wings.
The tree’s fruit is small in size and has yellow-coloured flowers.
Benefits of Betel Nut Tree
There are numerous other benefits of betel nut trees.
The following are the benefits of the betel nut:-
- Nutritional benefits: The nuts from the areca nut tree are good protein sources and other nurturing nutrients. It is used as a dietary source in many parts of the country.
- Environmental benefits: The plant also has environmental benefits; it helps in reforestation and land rehabilitation projects.
- Health benefits: Betel nut has astringent properties that help reduce bacteria in the mouth and prevent tooth decay. It helps keep oral health in check.
- Economic benefits: In India, many people do farming of betel nuts, which provides a source of income to them.
- Stimulation: A small amount of caffeine in the plant can help increase alertness and focus.
- Helps reduce anxiety: The nut has mild sedative properties that help reduce anxiety.
Betel Nut Tree: Toxicity
Betel nut is the seed from the areca nut tree; however, consuming it excessively hurts your body.
The nut contains arecoline that can lead to dizziness, tremors, and increased heart rate and blood pressure.
If consumed in the long term, it can cause problems like ulcers, bleeding gums, and tooth loss.
If you observe any such issue, consult a doctor or healthcare professional.
Significance of Betel Nut in Hinduism
In Hinduism, the betel nut holds utmost importance.
It is believed that betel nut helps connect with divine gods and goddesses.
Let’s look at its significance:-
- Before starting a Havan, put paan with supari in Havan Kund
- Betel nut is offered to Lord Shiva during puja
- Supari helps in taking blessings from Lord Ganesha and Lakshmi
- Areca palm nut is used for Phulaish puja
- If we do not have an image of any god, we can use supari instead. It can symbolise Brahman, Varun dev, Indradev
- Offering betel nuts to god means removing negative energies from life.
- Supari is considered auspicious in Hindu weddings and festivals.
- Betel nut plays an important role in Sankalpas or visualisation.
Betel Nut Tree: How is Betel Nut Extracted
For a successful harvest of betel nut tree, keep the following tips in mind:-
- Betel nut comes from raw fruit, which grows on the areca nut tree. Later, it is processed into nuts.
- The nut is peeled, boiled for 12 hours, and sun-dried for two weeks. After two weeks, the betel nut is ready to be sold in the market.
Summing Up: Betel Nut Tree
The betel nut tree is an indoor and outdoor plant that profoundly influences our culture and tradition.
The plant can be grown in an area with warm and humid temperatures.
This plant is native to India’s south and southeastern regions in Asia and is largely consumed for various reasons.
The fruit-betel nut has many benefits like nutritional, environmental, health, economic and more.
One can plant the tree in their garden, ensuring it gets direct sunlight.
Betel Nuts: Uses, Benefits and Side Effects
Introduction:
From religious ceremonies to mouth-fresheners, ‘paan supari’ has been an inseparable combination.
We know a lot about the ‘paan’ leaves, but not enough attention has been given to ‘supari’ or betel nuts.
Betel nuts are the seeds of the fruits of palm trees which are mostly cultivated in eastern countries like Bangladesh, India, Malaya, Ceylon, Philippines and Japan.
The scientific name of betel nut is Areca cattechu Linn.
It is commonly known as Areca nut.
In India, It is commonly known as gue and kwai in Meghalaya, tamul in Assam and Nagaland, kua and kuhva in Mizoram and Manipur, supari in Maharashtra.
Chali, parcha, neetadaka, Iylon, Nuli, Kalimak, Bura tamul and tamol are the common varieties of betel nuts.
In this article, we will learn all that you might want to know about betel nuts, including its health benefits, side effects and precautions, to name a few.
Nutritional Value of Betel nuts:
Betel nuts are rich in a variety of compounds, like carbohydrates, proteins, fibres, minerals like calcium, copper, phosphorus, and iron and Vitamins like Vitamin B6 and C.
Nutritional components Percentage
Carbohydrates 20%
Fats 15%
Phosphorus 0.13%
Calcium 0.05%
Iron 0.01%
Table 1: Nutritional value of betel nuts3
Betel nuts are also rich in phytochemicals which have a high medicinal value.
The phytochemicals present in betel nuts include alkaloids like arecoline, guvacoline, guvacine, arecaidine and polyphenols which mostly include flavonoids like leucocyanidins, catechins, epicatechin and tannins.
Phytochemical components Percentage
Leucocyanidins 12%
Catechins 10%
Arecoline 0.75%
Guvacoline 0.75%
Epicatechin 0.25%
Guvacine 0.29%
Arecadine 0.1%
Properties of Betel Nuts:
Betel nuts show numerous scientifically proven properties, some of which are mentioned below:
- It may have properties to improve digestion.2
- It has properties to remove excess salt and water from the body.2
- It may have the potential to reduce pain.2
- It may have properties to reduce anxiety.2
- It may have the potential to reduce blood pressure.4
- It may have the property to halt the growth of bacteria, viruses and fungi.4
- It may have the potential to reduce inflammation.4
- It may have properties to reduce blood glucose.4
- It may have the potential to correct elevated lipid levels.4
- It may have the potential to manage depression.4
Potential Uses of Betel Nuts for Overall Health:
Betel nuts have importance in Hindu religious ceremonies and are also called the fruit of divine origin.
Apart from this, there are numerous benefits of betel nuts, some of which are described below.
Potential uses of betel nuts on blood glucose
Literature studies support that the consumption of nuts may help manage blood glucose.
Musdja et al. conducted a study in.
The findings of this study showed that betel nut consumption in diabetic rats helped in reducing blood glucose.
This effect is attributed due to the presence of alkaloids like arecoline and guvacoline.
This indicates that betel nuts have the potential to reduce blood glucose and thus may help manage diabetes.
However, to claim these results in humans, we need more studies.
It is further advised not to self-medicate and consult your physician for proper management of abnormal blood glucose.
Potential uses of betel nuts on high blood pressure
Literature studies state that exercising regularly and following a healthy diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and nuts may have a positive impact on blood pressure.
A study conducted by Chen et al.
in stated that betel nuts might improve blood circulation and helps in reducing high blood pressure.
The exact mechanism behind this effect is not known.
Therefore, it is advised not to rely on betel nuts as a remedy, and kindly consult your physician for the proper management of hypertension.
Other potential uses of betel nuts:
- It may help reduce cough.
- Betel nuts may provide relief from toothache.
- Betel nuts may provide relief from skin irritation.
- It may help manage anxiety and depression.
- It may help in removing excess salt and water from the body and help in managing oedema (fluid accumulation).
How to Use Betel Nuts?
- Betel nuts are consumed raw or after roasting them.
- Betel nuts are chewed after drying them in the sun or after soaking or boiling them in water.
- Betel nut juice is also widely consumed in countries like Vietnam, Myanmar and Solomon Islands.
You must consult a qualified doctor before consuming any herbal supplements. You should not discontinue or replace your ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects of Betel Nuts:
which found that commonly reported side effects of betel nuts include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and abdominal pain.
Kumar et al.
conducted a study in which stated that betel nuts contain arecoline alkaloid, if consumed in larger amounts, it can be poisonous and may increase the risk of cancer.2
However, if you experience any adverse reactions to betel nuts, it is advised to discontinue its intake and immediately contact a doctor or your Ayurvedic physician who has prescribed it, as they will guide you properly for your symptoms.
Precautions to take with Betel Nuts:7
Consuming betel nuts is okay if taken in moderate amounts. However, the following considerations must be taken:
- You may become addicted to betel nut chewing, watch out for symptoms of anxiety, insomnia and mood swings. If you face these complaints, it is likely that you’re facing betel nut addiction. Consult your doctor for proper advice on betel nut withdrawal.
Consumption of betel nuts is contraindicated in people with:
- Stomach ulcers- as it may worsen the ulcers due to increased gastric secretions.
- Cardiac diseases- betel nuts may increase the risk of heart attacks.
- Asthma-betel nuts may worsen asthma.
- Seizures- betel nuts may increase the risk of seizures.
- Pregnancy and breast-feeding
- In children and the elderly, as it is habit-forming and is poisonous in high doses and can result in impairment of organ function.
Interactions with Other Drugs:
- Betel nuts may interact with your antidepressant medications like tranylcypromine and phenelzine and cause an increase in heart rate and anxiety. Avoid taking both of them together.7
- There may be an interaction between betel nuts and your blood glucose-lowering medicines, causing blood glucose levels to fall too low. It is advised to avoid this combination.5
- Betel nuts may interact with doxorubicin, an anticancer medicine and cause mouth sores, avoid this combination.7
However, you must always seek the advice of your Ayurvedic physician about the possible interaction of betel nuts with other drugs.
Betel Nut Trees : Benefits, Significance, And Growth
Introduction Betel Nut Trees
Betel nut tree is commonly referred to as the “supari tree” in India. India is the main country in which this tree’s fruit is consumed.
The plant is indigenous to the southern and southeast parts of Asia, including India.
The areca nut tree’s seed is most frequently eaten by tobacco, lime, and other plants.
The significance of betel nut trees in Hinduism stems from the belief that different Hindu gods and goddesses reside in different portions of the tree.
It is a chemical that is pure and helps people connect with the gods.
Supari is a representation of steadfast commitment.
In addition to its religious significance, the herb possesses therapeutic properties.
Betel Nut Tree : Key Facts
Name : Betel nut tree, Areca nut palm
Other name : Supari tree, or Dypsis Lutescens
Family of betel nut tree : Arecaceae
Origin : India, South and Southeast Asian regions
Soil require : Light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils
Temperature : 18–26 °C
Sunlight : Bright, indirect light
Height : Up to 20 meters, leaves grow up to 3 mtr in length
Time of plantation : June to December
Flowers : Small, yellow or orange
Indoor/ outdoor : Both outdoors and indoors
How To Grow And Maintain Betel Nut Tree
Southeast Asian rainforests and other tropical regions are home to areca and betel nut trees.
To cultivate the tree in your home garden, adhere to these guidelines:
Location
The betel nut tree should be planted in an area with good soil drainage and partial sunlight.
Hole Size For Plant
Planting a betel plant requires a twice-sized hole that is drilled to a depth equal to the root.
Watering
Regular watering of the plant is necessary, and the soil should be damp but not drenched.
If the right amount of water isn’t applied, the leaves may dry out and turn yellow.
Fertiliser
Use a balanced fertiliser every two months.
This will support the tree’s growth.
Cut Down On Damages
Prune off any dead or damaged areas of betel nut trees to ensure their continued healthy growth.
Soil
Perlite, coconut coir, and peat moss belong in the soil mixture.
The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 6.5, which is somewhat acidic.
Light
Direct sunshine is preferred by the areca nut tree.
Make sure it is in direct sunlight, even if you plant it indoors.
Temperature
The betel nut tree thrives in warm, humid climates.
Cold Climate
Because the Areca nut tree is not tolerant of frost, keep it out of the cold.
Try keeping it indoors, where the weather is usually comfortable, if you live in a chilly climate.
Types Of Betel Nut Tree
Here are a few palm trees that provide areca nuts:
Highland Betel Nut, Or Areca Macrocalyx:
The Highland betel nut, which is grown in India and other South Asian nations, is the most popular variety of areca nut palm.
This shrub produces little, spherical nuts with a vivid crimson outer covering.
Areca Catechu:
Areca catechu is another betel tree that is widely planted in Bangladesh and India.
This plant produces oval-shaped fruit with an outer husk that is either yellow or brown.
Areca Vestiaria:
In the Philippines, Areca vestiaria is cultivated, yielding huge, oval-shaped nuts.
Areca Triandra:
Areca triandra, a plant that is widely distributed in Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia, has small, rounded fruit in addition to yellow flowers.
Areca Lutescens:
Madagascar is the original home of this kind of betel nut palm.
The plant’s leaves have the appearance of butterfly wings.
The tree produces tiny, yellow-coloured fruit with blooms.
Advantages Of The Betel Nut Tree
Betel nut trees also provide a host of other advantages.
The advantages of betel nuts include the following:
Nutritional
The areca nut tree produces nuts that are a wonderful source of protein and other nourishing minerals.
In many sections of the nation, it provides a source of nutrition.
Environment
Additionally beneficial to the environment, the plant aids in land rehabilitation and reforestation initiatives.
Health
Because of its astringent qualities, betel nut helps keep teeth healthy by lowering oral bacteria. It supports good dental hygiene.
Economic
A large number of people in India grow betel nuts as a means of subsistence.
Stimulation
The plant contains a tiny quantity of caffeine, which may improve focus and alertness.
Helps To Reduce Anxiety
The nut helps lower anxiety because it has modest sedative qualities.
Betel Nut Tree: Hazardous
The seed of the areca nut tree is called betel nut, but if you eat too much of it, your body will suffer.
Arecoline, which is present in the nut, can cause tremors, elevated blood pressure, and dizziness.
Long-term consumption may result in issues like tooth loss, bleeding gums, and ulcers. Get in touch with a physician or other healthcare provider if you notice any such problems.
Betel Nut’s Significance In Hinduism
The betel nut is very important in Hinduism.
The betel nut is thought to facilitate communication with celestial gods and goddesses.
Let’s examine its importance:
♠ Place paan and supari in the Havan Kund before beginning a Havan.
♠ During the puja, Lord Shiva is offered betel nuts.
♠ Supari facilitates receiving blessings from Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha.
♠ Phulaish puja uses areca palm nuts.
♠ Supari can be used in place of a god image if none is available.
♠ It may represent Indradev, Varun Dev, or Brahman.
♠ Giving betel nuts to the gods is a way to purge negative energy from existence.
♠ Hindu weddings and festivals regard Supari as auspicious.
♠ A key component of Sankalpas, or vision, is betel nut.
How To Extract Betel Nuts From A Betel Nut Tree
Remember the following advice to ensure a successful betel nut tree harvest:
♠ Raw fruit from the areca nut tree is used to make betel nuts. It is further processed to make nuts.
♠ After peeling, the nut is sun-dried for two weeks and then boiled for 12 hours. The betel nut is ready to be sold on the market after two weeks.
Betel Nut Tree Conclusion
Our culture and traditions are greatly influenced by the betel nut tree, which may be grown both indoors and outdoors.
It is possible to grow the plant in a warm, humid climate.
This plant, which is native to southeast and southern Asia and India, is widely consumed for a variety of purposes.
Numerous advantages of the fruit-betel nut include nutritional, environmental, health, and financial ones.
The tree can be planted in a garden as long as it receives full sun.
Betel Nut – Health Benefits, Uses and Important Facts
The betel nut, also known as the areca nut, the supari, or simply the nut, is a staple of Indian festivals, gatherings, and religious rituals.
Areca nut, which originated in India, has multiple medicinal uses.
According to Ayurveda, it eliminates dental plaque, freshens breath, and cleanses the digestive tract of parasites and tapeworms.
Betel nut (supari) can be used both to treat cavities and to stop them from forming. Cavities are painful holes in the enamel (the outer layer of the tooth) caused by oral bacteria.
Eating betel nuts might also reduce swelling and pain in the gums.
The vaginal yellow discharge is treated with betel nut, and it is also used to alleviate period cramps.
Regular consumption of betel nut can help men whose condition is exacerbated by premature ejaculation.
When high levels of attention and mental alertness are required, betel nuts can be chewed to increase energy and focus.
Indigestion can be alleviated by chewing on betel nuts.
Betel nut has several positive health effects, including a reduction in the symptoms of diarrhoea and constipation.
Stroke victims often have trouble communicating due to weakened speech muscles.
Strengthen your muscles and sharpen your tongue with a few betel nuts. Betel nut is helpful for people without anaemia as well.
What is betel nut (supari)?
The betel nut fruit is produced by a palm feather tree that reaches a maximum height of 1.5 metres.
Betel nuts can be used either fresh or dried, and either way, they can be boiled or roasted.
The betel nut, with its warm, acidic flavour, complements the flavour of any spice.
The betel nut is removed from its quid and chewed on the go.
The health benefits of the quid have led to its habitual consumption by people of all ages.
Origin and cultivation of betel nut:
One of the most important cash crops in India, supari (betel nut) is largely planted in the states of Kerala, Assam, Karnataka, Tripura, Maharashtra, and West Bengal.
Betel nut is mostly cultivated in India, Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, and Burma.
Betel nuts may have originated in either Malaysia or the Philippines, though this has not been conclusively proven.
Betel nut, also known as areca nut, is widely cultivated in both of these regions.
These regions then ship their harvest to other Asian countries, where betel nut is grown commercially.
Betel nut trees need a lot of moisture to produce fruit.
This means it can’t be grown in regions with insufficient precipitation.
Betel nuts thrive in areas where the temperature ranges from 14 degrees Celsius to 36 degrees Celsius.
Types of betel nut:
Several methods of preparation result in a wide range of betel nut products.
To make white areca nut, ripe areca nuts are collected and then dried for two months.
Supari is what you get after you take the shells off the nuts.
The green areca nut is gathered, husked, and boiled in hot water to produce the crimson supari. Chikni supari is the name for the finished product.
Importance of betel nut in Hindu tradition:
The areca nut or supari plays a significant role in Indian tradition.
It is a must-have in ‘tamboolam,‘ the typical exchange of gifts at events like weddings, housewarmings, and even a golu, and is often associated with good omen or fortune.
Making a sacrifice to a deity in Hinduism is not complete without reciting the poem Pungi Phala Samayuktam and burning an areca nut.
It’s not uncommon for Indian hosts to offer their visitors a spoonful of areca nut to chew on after a meal, or for family members to snack on the tiny morsels themselves to stave off boredom.
Health benefits of betel nut:
Betel nuts are good for your teeth
Betal nut protects the enamel, the protective outer layer of teeth, from decay caused by eating too many sugary foods. When people eat more sugar at night, they increase their risk of developing cavities.
Hence, avoiding cavities and alleviating tooth pain can be achieved by substituting betel nut for sugars in one’s diet.
Betel nut is used as a breath mint.
Diabetic symptoms often include a persistent dry mouth.
Dry mouth can also lead to chapped lips and foul breath.
The increased saliva production prompted by chewing betel nut is a powerful defence against dry mouth and its complications.
Betel nut for whitening teeth
The yellowing of the mouth is a common ailment that affects many people.
Excessive intake of caffeinated and other caffeinated beverages is to blame.
A person’s confidence might take a serious hit if they have poor dental health.
If you want to avoid your teeth turning yellow or brown from using betel nut, you should first roast it, then grind it into a fine powder and massage it directly on your teeth for a few minutes before rinsing your mouth out.
If you make this a routine, your teeth will stay bright for a long time.
Betal helps to avoid gum disease
Gum infections are a common problem.
They can use the water from boiling the betel nut in a cup as a mouthwash.
The gum disease, edoema, and pain would all be diminished if this were done.
Burning one nut and then using the ash to treat gum infections is another option.
Betal nut, clove powder, and katha should be combined, then the resulting powder should be diluted in water and used as a rinse.
Betel prevents Gum swelling
Powder up some Katha, ajwain, and sendha namak, and add them to the ghee-fried betal nut in equal parts.
Make a paste by adding water to this mixture.
The gums should be coated with this paste and left that way for a few minutes.
Your painful gums will significantly decrease in size.
Betel helps with stomach issues
Having a tasteless mouth is a common symptom of dyspepsia.
Betel nut chewing promotes a healthy digestive tract, gets rid of indigestion, and gets you hungry again.
As digestion is boosted, constipation disappears and the body as a whole benefits.
Having healthy bowel movements can do wonders for one’s mood and outlook.
Preserves the health of women
Leucorrhea is the medical term for a yellowish vaginal discharge that some women experience.
In most cases, an oestrogen deficiency is to blame for this disorder.
The hormonal imbalance can be treated with betel nut.
In addition, eating betel nuts before your period begins has been shown to lessen the severity of abdominal and vaginal pains.
Betel nut enhances focus
If taken in moderate doses, betel nut has been shown to enhance focus and productivity.
Nighttime drivers who chew betel nuts report feeling more awake and in control of their vehicles.
The use of betel nut by those whose work calls for constant concentration is encouraged.
Betel nuts helps in diarrhoea
In the case of diarrhoea, the digestive tract is unable to break down liquids and food, leading to the loss of significant quantities of watery faeces.
A person’s life is lost if this illness is not treated.
Betel nut aids in the recuperation process by reducing bloating and the need to use the loo frequently.
Protects sexual vitality
Infertility in men can be treated with betel nut because it prevents men from ejaculating too early.
The reason for this is that males can reach their climax earlier than usual, which implies that sperm do not make it to the egg in time to generate a foetus.
Increases Stamina
Individuals who have had a heart attack may have weak muscles, which might manifest in slurred speech.
Speech and muscle strength can both benefit from frequent betel nut consumption.
Heal anaemia and stabilise blood sugar
Anemia is caused by a lack of iron in the body.
Low blood sugar levels are the result of insufficient food synthesis in the bloodstream.
Both conditions can benefit greatly from frequent betel nut ingestion.
Side effects of betel nuts:
There is strong evidence that betel nut consumption during pregnancy can harm the developing foetus.
Due to the significant cancer risk, betel nut should only be used in moderation.
It is best to stop eating betel nuts if they induce low blood pressure and shortness of breath, as these symptoms can be dangerous.
Asthma patients should avoid betel nut at all costs because it has been shown to worsen the illness.
Abrasives in the mouth from the betel nut’s slaked lime content have been linked to cancer-causing chemicals in the body.
White lesions appear first on the body, eventually developing into a painful tumour.
The procedure to remove the lower jaw causes additional physical distress.
Paan Supari: Why Is Paan Supari A Part Of The Hindu Rituals?
All Hindu rituals take place in a serene surrounding, at a sanctified place, and with nothing but purest of pure objects.
Amongst several important objects, betel leaves or paan, together with areca nuts or supari are indispensable.
Yes, you heard that right! Wondering why?
Well in the following article, you would know why is Paan Supari an irreplaceable aspect of Hindu rites and rituals.
What Is So Special About Paan Supari?
Most of the commodities that one uses for the Hindu rituals are indeed unique.
They are such commodities that also consist of divine characteristics.
One of the many is the paan supari. It is not only sacred but also sanctified via nature.
And that is why they form an integral part of any ritual. Hence, no one would dare to compromise on it or even try to ignore it.
Quick Dive Into The Sanskrit Literature
In Sanskrit literature, people refer the paan to as “Tambulam”.
It also goes with the name “Nagavalli” in Sanskrit, which brings to mind the image of a creeper with the hood of a cobra.
The term ‘Naga’ means serpent in Sanskrit, and ‘Valli’ is a ‘creeper’.
Hence, the name Nagavalli.
People have a belief that the sweet-smelling leafy creeper has come from a sacred Purna Ghata or clay pot.
And this pot had Amrit or nectar when the sea was being churned via the gods and the demons.
The gods were the ones to outwit the demons, obtain the pot, and consume the nectar.
Instead, they sent the pot down to earth.
The tender and sacred Nagavalli took root and eventually it became a spot for flourishing for human beings.
Interesting Facts About Paan Supari
You would remain in surprise to know that the paan creeper is very sensitive, tender and sacred.
It is a belief that if a lady goes near the betel crop during her menstrual cycle, it will soon rot and decay as it cannot withstand the odour.
On the other hand, nature has made the paan so very susceptible to strong smells.
Since the paan is sensitive, it draws both celestial and earthly vibrations.
Did you know that the stem of the leaves plays an important role in this function?
Well, a leaf without the stem at its end cannot attract any vibrations.
It is the stem that serves as the antenna of the leaf through which it receives outer vibrations.
That is why a paan is made as an offering to a deity keeping the stem towards the image of the Divine.
The Infinite Uses Of Paan As Per Ayurveda
Ayurveda also highlights the vast and extensive uses of the paan.
One can use the paan supari as a carminative, a digestive, and at the same time as an invigorating substance.
If you recall weddings, you wouldn’t deny that the bride and bridegroom exchange the paan during their marriage for stimulation.
The areca nut or supari symbolizes the ego and the hard, coarse quality of man, which one must surrender to the ultimate deity.
Types Of Supari
Well, There are two types of supari:- the one which is reddish and round, and the other one which is oval and whitish.
For rites and rituals, the oval type is an ideal suit because it can attract greater divine vibrations from the atmosphere.
Both water and earth elements are divinely blent in the supari.
And this thereby makes it effective for activating celestial vibrations.
Rishis and munis list only such objects of nature for puja that are commensurate with the Divine and have positive energy.
The betel leaf and areca nut are two such extraordinary objects.
To conclude, now you must have got a better and clearer idea about paan supari, haven’t you?
This will help you to not blindly follow traditions and rituals.
It will make you mindful of what is happening around and maybe even address your near and dear ones.
Because in the end, conducting the Hindu rites and rituals with the purpose in mind makes a lot of difference.
Significance of Betel Leaf in Pooja
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.
The red color is because of the catechu or kattha.
In other regional languages in India the betel leaf is known as pan, nag ve, vetta or vettila.
The betel leaf is used in pujas by Hindus for both spiritual and health reasons.
The tambulam is traditionally offered by Hindus to guests after food because of its healthy properties and, therefore, after the neivedyam, tambulam is offered to the gods.
Spiritual side of the coin
The betel leaf is a symbol of freshness and prosperity.
According to Skanda Purana, the betel leaf was obtained by the gods during the churning of the ocean for the nectar.
The main reason that it is used in pujas, however, is that Hindus believe that the different deities reside in the betel leaf
Thus:
Indra and Shukra are present in the top portion of the leaf
Goddess Saraswati resides in the middle part
Goddess Mahalakshmi resides in the lower tip
Jyesta Lakshmi resides in the part that connects the betel leaf to the stem
Lord Vishnu resides inside the leaf
Lord Shiva and Kamdev reside on the outside of the leaf
Goddess Parvati and Mangalya Devi live on the left side
Mother Earth or Bhoomidevi lives on the right side
Lord Suryanarayana is there throughout the leaf
The betel leaf is also one of the items in Ashtamangalya : Flowers, Mangala ashtaka [rice colored with turmeric], Fruits, Mirror, Dhoti, Betel leaf & Betel nut, Lamp and Kumkum & Kajal [or kanmashi, a black ointment used to highlight the eyes] ..
Betel leaves with holes, betel leaves that are dry and ones that are torn in the middle are not utilized in pujas.
In south India, dakshina to the priests and elders are given by keeping betel nut and a coin in the betel leaf.
All pujas contain betel leaves and betel nuts.
Betel leaves are also used to adorn the mouth of the Kalash pot because it purifies the water.
Health reasons
According to Sushrata, the greatest of ancient Indian medicine men and the world’s first-ever surgeon, the betel leaf preparation keeps the mouth clean, strengthens the voice, tongue and teeth and guards against diseases.
It is also said to aid in digestion (saliva produced due to the chewing of the betel leaf helps in the digestion process of our body).
The alkaline in the saliva helps in reducing the spread of cancer. Science has proved that cancer cells die when kept in an alkaline solution.
The betel leaf contains a little bit of betel-oil (it is a volatile oil).
It generates the spice and the taste that you feel when you chew the betel leaf.
In ancient literature, this has been documented.
It destroys foul odor too.
By itself, the betel leaf is a powerhouse of vitamin A and C.
Further, it also contains plenty of calcium, which reduces or even prevents osteoporosis.
The other ingredients used along with betel leaf are very useful too.
Fennel and betel nut help speed up digestion.
Nutmeg dries up the mucous.
Kattha also helps in drying up the mucous.
The betel leaf is also a great blood thinner.
And cardamom and cloves help in reducing gas and acidity.
Kattha and betel present in paan help all those suffering from cold and cough by controlling mucous production.