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KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

Tirur Vettila, Malappuram

Cultivated in Tirur and nearby areas of Malappuram district, Tirur Vettila (betel leaf) is unique for its high content of total chlorophyll and protein in fresh leaves.  

The shelf period of the Tirur betel leaf is more compared to other betel leaves. The antioxidant capacity in Tirur betel leaf adds to its medicinal properties. This special betel leaf contains huge content of chlorophyll, protein and water. 

Possessing peculiar biochemical characteristics like aroma and flavour, the leaves are nutritive and contain anti-carcinogens, showing future opportunities in anticancer drugs. Betel Vine was reported to have immunosuppressive activity and antimicrobial properties. The juice from these leaves has medicinal purposes. It is used in "Thambooladi Thailam," a medicine for cough. 

The Tirur leaf is cultivated across Tirur, Chembra, Thanur, Morya, Meenadathoor, Vailathoor, Ozhoor, Edarikkode, Kuruva, Pulparamba, Kalpakanchery, Athavanad, Kizhake Mukkola, Thirurangadi and Vengara. 

The betel cultivation started in the 1880s. Initially, it was sold in local markets only. The traders from foreign countries used these leaves for pan chewing and demand started picking up increased and a pan bazaar has been established in Tirur. Now Tirur betel leaves are exported primarily to Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. Karpoora vettila, Thulasi vettila, Perungodi, Amaravila, Arikkodi, and Koottakkodi are the prominent betel varieties cultivated in the Tirur region.

Contact
Tirur Vettila Ulpadaka Sangam
Chembra, C/o Krishibhavan
Tirur - Chamaravattom Road
Alingal, Malappuram - 676 108