Betel is originated from central and eastern parts of Malaysia. At a very early date, betel spread throughout Asia's tropical region and to Madagascar and east Africa. Betel is grown widely in many parts of India. The betel plant is attractive, aromatic slender creeper, betel has an alternate, heart shaped, smooth, shining, and long stalked leaves with pointed apex. Offering betel morsel to guests and visitors is a common courtesy in Indian sub-continent.
Betel is bit sour in taste but is a popular mouth freshener.
Betel leaves usually used as masticatory. It is stimulant, digestive, carminative, anti flatulent, anti inflammatory, invigorating, anti phlegmatic, pain reliever. It eliminates foul smell and is an antiseptic. According to Hakeem Hashmi, outstanding unani physician, betel leaves have been used from ancient times as an aromatic stimulant and anti flatulent. It is useful in preventing secretion or bleeding and is an aphrodisiac, betel leaf is used in several common house hold remedies.