PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF PIPER BETLE L.: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract Piper betle L., commonly known as betel leaf, is a culturally significant and medicinally valuable plant widely used across South and Southeast Asia. Traditionally incorporated in Ayurveda, Unani, and folk systems, its leaves are known for antiseptic, carminative, and stimulant properties. This review offers a comprehensive overview of Piper betle’s botanical characteristics, traditional uses, phytochemical composition, analytical identification methods, and pharmacological activities. Rich in essential oils, phenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids, Piper betle demonstrates notable antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. Advanced analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC-MS, and NMR have enabled precise characterization of its constituents. Despite its traditional significance, further clinical and pharmacological validation is needed to fully harness its therapeutic potential and support its integration into modern medicine and industry.