The Betel (Piper betle) is the leaf of a vine belonging to the Piperaceae family, which includes pepper and Kava). It is valued both as a mild stimulant and for its medicinal properties.
Betel leaves are used as a stimulant, an antiseptic and a breath-freshener Paan. In India, the betel and areca play an important role in Indian culture, especially among Hindus. Many traditional ceremonies governing the lives of Hindus use betel and areca.