Red flag on a cure-all Science casts doubt on India's beloved paan

From: International Herald Tribune | Date: May 17, 2005| Author: | Copyright information

Anand Giridharadas
International Herald Tribune
05-17-2005
The way some tell it, there is nothing paan won't do. They say it is a stimulant, breath freshener and strengthener of gums. It raises sperm count and lowers blood pressure. It releases oxytocin, the love hormone, and blood chemicals believed by ancient Hindus to rouse motherly affection. There is more. Paan ingredients are said to hone memory, ease depression and forestall aging. It is a cancer therapy that doubles as lipstick. Not bad for an egg-sized snack consisting of a betel-nut leaf draped around a polychrome blend of slaked ...

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