THE BETEL NUT CHEWING SET:
An ancient Vietnamese custom, betel nut chewing was popular among men and women of all ages. The components – betel leaf, areca nut, and lime paste (trau cau) – were believed to enhance beauty, with blackened teeth, reddened lips, and blushed cheeks for women after puberty.
Betel nut was consumed at worship rituals, festivals, and especially wedding ceremonies where portions were gifted to guests. Beyond cosmetic benefits, it was thought to prevent illnesses, freshen breath, and strengthen teeth and gums.
While commoners used a communal lime paste container, the royal palace had individual lime paste containers for each person, often made from precious metals like gold and silver. This unique cultural practice brought people together in a spirit of cordiality.
An ancient Vietnamese custom, betel nut chewing was popular among men and women of all ages. The components – betel leaf, areca nut, and lime paste (trau cau) – were believed to enhance beauty, with blackened teeth, reddened lips, and blushed cheeks for women after puberty.
Betel nut was consumed at worship rituals, festivals, and especially wedding ceremonies where portions were gifted to guests. Beyond cosmetic benefits, it was thought to prevent illnesses, freshen breath, and strengthen teeth and gums.
While commoners used a communal lime paste container, the royal palace had individual lime paste containers for each person, often made from precious metals like gold and silver. This unique cultural practice brought people together in a spirit of cordiality.
