Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Betel, particularly in the form of betel leaf (Piper betle), has a long history of traditional use in South and Southeast Asia for various medicinal purposes, including the management of nausea and vomiting. In Ayurvedic and traditional folk medicine, betel leaves have been chewed, sometimes with areca nut and other ingredients, as a remedy for digestive complaints, such as indigestion, nausea, and bloating. The practice is embedded in cultural traditions, and the leaf is believed to have carminative and stimulant properties that can soothe the stomach and reduce feelings of nausea.

Scientific validation for these effects is limited. Some phytochemical analyses show that betel leaves contain compounds like eugenol and chavicol, which may have mild antiemetic (anti-nausea) and carminative actions, but robust clinical trials confirming efficacy for nausea and vomiting are lacking. Most of the available evidence comes from small-scale studies, laboratory research, or anecdotal reports rather than systematic reviews or well-powered human trials. The rating of 2 reflects that, while there is a strong traditional basis and some plausible biochemical rationale, scientific corroboration is weak.

In summary, the use of betel for nausea and vomiting is primarily justified by tradition, with some supportive but not definitive scientific rationale. Individuals should be cautious, as regular betel chewing (especially with areca nut) is associated with significant health risks, including carcinogenicity.

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