Book Number: 21 832

Reichart, P.A. & H.P. Philipsen

BETEL AND MIANG, VANISHING THAI HABITS

Describes the chewing of betel as a long-established custom in Thailand and elsewhere in Asia. The chewing of miang (fermented tea leaves) is peculiar to Thailand. These habits and the paraphernalia associated with them have fascinated western observers in Thailand since the earliest travellers visited Siam in the seventeenth century.

This book provides a comprehensive examination of all aspects of these habits. The history, the ritual, and the sociological significance are all presented, as are the production and preparation of the chewing quids and the pharmacological actions of the ingredients on the body.

The authors, both of whom are dental scientists who have studied these practices for many years, provide the reader with an understanding of the possible side effects and the medical and dental problems which may accompany these addictive habits.

A large part of the book is devoted to describing the paraphernalia and utensils associated with the betel and miang habits. A superb collection of over 130 illustrations, most in full color, complement the text. Many of the items illustrated are extremely rare.

(Bangkok, 1996)

ISBN 974-8496-53-8

136 pp., fully illus. in color, 210 x 295 mm, pbk.

45.- US-Dollar

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