Tambula, or betel leaf, is an important offering in all pujas and rituals in Hinduism. It is offered rolled and also as in its original shape with other ingredients. There is deep symbolism attached to Tambulam in Hindu religion.
Tambula represents all the five elements together (earth,
water, akasha (space), fire and air.
The betel leaf represents the earth element, the clove
represents the akasha or space element, pungent taste represents air, a heat
generating power (fire) in the khadira and fruit (betel nut), and water of
lime.
This offering connects a devote with the source of creation.
The ritual also symbolizes that the offeror, the offered and one receiving the
offering all are from a single source.