Dear Ali,

THe betel leaf is commonly eaten together with other condiments, sometimes
with tobacco ( yuck) as a mouth freshener. It has a mild stimulating
action. No known toxicity. It should be pretty safe for the mom but I
would not recommend it for any infant or toddler. As kids, we used to be
treated to an occasional 'paan' after festival meals which mostly
consisted of a betel leaf, some anise seeds, dry coconut, and 'gulkand'
(rose petal preserves). If it is done right, it turns your mouth bright
red!

http://www.essential-oil-
encyclopedia.com/essentialoil/encyclopedia/essential-oils-a/Betel-Leaf/

Vaishali

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