CHENNAI, (IANS) – Authoor betel leaves from Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district recently received a Geographical Indication (GI) certificate. The betel leaves commonly known as ‘Vettrilai’ have been ...

Nutritionist Pooja Makhija breaks down what betel leaf actually does inside the body, right down to the molecular level.

Betel nut, the seed of the areca palm fruit, is often chewed inside a betel leaf with lime. The practice has been known for its psychoactive effects, including heightened alertness and euphoria.

Ancient rituals and customs often leave behind obvious archaeological evidence. From the impeccably preserved mummies of Egypt to psychoactive substance residue that remained at the bottom of a clay ...

Betel leaf and supari (betel nut) hold profound significance in the worship of Goddess Durga and are essential components of many Hindu rituals. Offering betel leaves to the goddess symbolizes respect ...

THENI: In the heart of Theni, where emerald betel leaves blanket the landscape, a remarkable transformation has taken root. This is the story of S Renuga, a 38-year-old agricultural labourer, who with ...

In south-east Asia, betel nut chewing has been practiced since antiquity. The plants contain compounds that enhance the consumer's alertness, energy, euphoria, and relaxation. Although the practice is ...