Beedi

A beedi (also spelled bidi[1] or biri[2]) is a thin cigarette or mini-cigar filled with tobacco flake and commonly wrapped in a tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon)[3] or Piliostigma racemosum[4] leaf tied with a string or adhesive at one end.

[5][6] The name is derived from the Marwari word beeda—a mixture of betel nuts, herbs, and spices wrapped in a leaf.

[7] It is a traditional method of tobacco use throughout South Asia and parts of the Middle East,[6] where beedies are popular[2] and inexpensive.

[11] Beedi smoking tends to be associated with a lower social standing,[14] as these tobacco-filled leaves are inexpensive when compared to regular cigarettes.

[21] Handling tobacco and inhaling its dust is an occupational hazard for beedi workers as an increased level of chromosome aberrations was found in a scientific study.

[citation needed] Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon) leaves make excellent wrappers, and the success of the beedi is due, in part, to this leaf.

[25] Beedies deliver more nicotine,[26] carbon monoxide,[27] and tar[27] and carry a greater risk of oral cancers[5] than conventional cigarettes.

Some added influence of smoke produced by burning of the wrapper leaf and type of tobacco used in beedies could not be ruled out.