Areca catechu

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Areca catechu

Areca catechu (/əˈriːkə kəˈtʃuː/), commonly known as the areca palm, betel palm, or Indian nut, is a species of palm which grows in much of the tropical Pacific, Asia, and parts of east Africa. The palm is believed to have originated in the Philippines, but is widespread in cultivation and is considered naturalized in southern China (Guangxi, Hainan, Yunnan), Taiwan, India, Bangladesh, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, New Guinea, many of the islands in the Pacific Ocean, and also in the West Indies.

Etymology

The name "Areca" is derived from a name used locally on the Malabar Coast of India and "catechu" is from another Malay name for this palm, caccu.

Description

The Areca catechu is a medium-sized palm tree, growing straight to approximately 20 meters tall. The leaves are 1.5–2 meters long, pinnate, with numerous, crowded leaflets. It is also known for its commercially important seed, the betel nut, which is chewed along with the betel leaf for its stimulating effects.

Medical Usage

The betel nut from the Areca catechu is known to have several medical benefits. It is used in traditional medicine for its anthelmintic properties, to treat digestive ailments, and as a stimulant. However, excessive and prolonged use can lead to oral submucous fibrosis and cancer.

Related Terms

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