Paanとは 意味・読み方・使い方

Paan, from the word pān (Hindi: पान, Urdu: پان) is an Indian/Pakistani and Southeast Asian tradition of chewing betel leaf (Piper betle) with areca nut and slaked lime paste, and katha (or kaatha) brown powder paste, with many regional and local variations. It is a betel leaf, chewed as a palate cleanser, a breath freshener, and for digestive purposes. It is offered to guests and visitors as a sign of hospitality (after meals at both personal and social occasions) and at the beginning of social events. It has a symbolic value at ceremonies and cultural events in India and southeast Asia. Paan makers may use mukhwas or tobacco in paan fillings. Most paan contains areca nuts as a filling. Other types include what is called sweet paan, where sugar, candied fruit and multicolored, sweetened, candy-like fennel seeds are used.