Betelvine (Piper betle L.) an Asian Plant with Numerous Therapeutic Values: A Brief Review

Abstract

Betelvine (Piper betle) is a perennial, dioecious evergreen creeper belonging to the family Piperaceae. It is considered as a cash crop in India, mainly used for chewing purpose. Medicinal properties of betel leaves are known since 600AD and recorded in Ayurveda. Leaves of betel is a rich source of Phenolic compounds (Eugenol, Hydroxychavicol, β-Carotene and Ascorbic acid) which shows strong antioxidant properties that play a key role of several therapeutic mechanisms, Apart from Ayurveda, modern research also proves the medicinal properties of betel leaf and its compound shows anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antifertility and several other therapeutic and nutraceuticals properties. In this review a brief account of medicinal importance of Piper betle is described.