Is It Safe to Clean the Intimate Area with Betel Leaves?

Betel leaves are widely known as a herbal plant with various health benefits. For generations, boiled betel leaf water has been used to cleanse the intimate area because it is believed to kill fungi, bacteria, and parasites.

For this reason, betel leaves are often used as a traditional remedy for vaginal discharge.

Why Are Betel Leaves Commonly Used for Intimate Care?

Vaginal discharge is a very common condition among women. In fact, around 90% of Indonesian women are estimated to experience it at some point.

This is closely related to Indonesia’s tropical climate—warm and humid—which creates an ideal environment for the growth of fungi and bacteria.

Betel leaves are medicinal plants widely available in Indonesia and have long been used in traditional medicine. In addition to intimate care, betel leaves are also used to:

• strengthen teeth;
• stop gum bleeding;
• heal minor wounds in the mouth;
• reduce body odor;
• serve as a natural mouthwash.

Betel Leaf Compounds and Their Benefits

Several studies mention that betel leaves contain various active compounds, such as:

• Eugenol, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties and has been shown to be effective against Candida albicans, one of the causes of vaginal discharge.
• Tannins, which have astringent properties and help reduce excessive fluid secretion in the vaginal canal.
• Enzymes and natural sugars contribute to antimicrobial activity.

Because of these components, betel leaves may help relieve vaginal discharge in certain conditions, especially when it is caused by mild fungal or bacterial growth.

Risks of Using Betel Leaves Too Frequently

Despite their benefits, regularly cleansing the intimate area with betel leaves is not always recommended. Overuse may:

• disrupt the vagina’s natural pH balance;
• reduce beneficial bacteria (normal vaginal flora);
• cause dryness and irritation in the intimate area;
• trigger recurrent vaginal discharge in the long term.

It is important to note that the vagina has a natural self-cleaning mechanism. For women without specific intimate health complaints, the use of feminine hygiene cleansers—whether herbal or chemical—is generally unnecessary.

Be Cautious If Symptoms Appear After Using Feminine Hygiene Products

If you experience vaginal discharge, itching, or discomfort after using intimate cleansing products, including boiled betel leaf water, it may indicate that the product is disrupting your vaginal pH balance and natural flora.

This can make the vagina more susceptible to infection.

So, Is It Safe to Clean the Intimate Area with Betel Leaves?

The answer is: yes, but not for routine or long-term use. Betel leaves should be used in moderation, for example, during mild vaginal discharge that is not accompanied by severe symptoms such as pain, strong odor, or bleeding.

If vaginal discharge persists, recurs frequently, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is best to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Safe Tips for Intimate Care

• Clean the intimate area with clean water.
• Avoid using scented soaps.
• Wear cotton underwear that is not too tight.
• Keep the intimate area clean and dry.

With proper care, the natural balance of the intimate area can be maintained without relying on specific ingredients or products.

References

Halodoc. Accessed in 2025. Bolehkah Membersihkan Miss V dengan Air Rebusan Daun Sirih?

Toneop Care. Accessed in 2025. 11 Betel Leaf Benefits for Females.