The AftaWay Banarasi Paan Blossom 4.93 oz (140g) – Traditional Indian Mouth Freshener & Digestive with Real Betel Leaves, Gulkand & Fennel – No Tobacco, Gluten-Free, Vegan, Non-GMO, No Artificial Preservatives

Banarasi Paan Blossom Mouth Freshener turned out to be an interesting addition to my routine. Being someone who enjoys traditional Indian flavors, I enjoy the authentic paan flavor, it tastes rich with betel leaves, fennel seeds plus a bit of sweetness from gulkand. I generally take some after meals which leaves my breath feeling fresh but also a subtle & natural aftertaste too. The jar is decent (140g) it comes sealed like a can and a secure lid that keeps it fresh. I like the fact that it’s tobacco free plus no artificial preservatives! However, the texture is bit too sticky for my liking, clinging to my teeth at times. For those who are new to paan, start with a small pinch, the best time to enjoy it is after dinner for a soothing finish.

Loved the freshness—probably thanks to the sturdy soda-can-style seal. The flavor is spot on, just like having real Banarasi paan. Will definitely try more flavors from Altaway once this one’s gone!

I'm certain this is made with authentic and high quality ingredients; made BY folks who know what it should taste like FOR folks who already know they enjoy what it tastes like when it's properly made. I don't believe this paan is meant for... beginners, rather for folks who've grown accustomed to it and acquired a taste for it over time. I am a pretty advernturous eater when it comes to herbs, spices, seeds, teas and tinctures, from sweet to savory, relishing fragrances as well as flavors. This is too much for me. My first hint came when I popped the tab on the vacuum sealed inner cap and smelled what I'd have guessed was tobacco, had the label not specified that it contains no tobacco. StiIl game, I spotted fennel and cardamom seeds and was hopeful as I put a very small pinch of the dark, damp, leafy mixture in my mouth and began chewing. Had I not been alone I'd have persisted, but being alone, I removed and rinsed it from my mouth. Noticing my mouth still tasted like I'd gulped perfume, I quickly went and brushed my teeth. A normal person might say enough is enough but I'm on the "not so much" side of normal so I'm going to wait a day or two and try again. My brother is an adventurous eater, too, and I'm going to see if he wants to try it, but he might decline since he hasn't yet forgiven me for the shilajit paste. Or the ashwaghanda gummies. Or the ginseng ten treasure tea. We'll see.