Betel nut

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Betel Nut

Betel nut (pronunciation: /ˈbiːtəl ˈnʌt/), also known as Areca nut, is the seed of the areca palm (Areca catechu), which grows in much of the tropical Pacific, Asia, and parts of east Africa. It is commonly referred to as "betel nut" as it is often chewed wrapped in betel leaves.

Etymology

The term "betel nut" originates from "betel", a leaf from a vine of the family Piperaceae, which is often chewed along with the nut. "Betel" itself is derived from vettila, the Malayalam word for the same. The term "areca" is derived from a name used locally on the Malabar Coast of India.

Usage

Betel nut is often used in a traditional custom known as betel chewing. The nut is usually wrapped in a betel leaf along with lime and may include clove, cardamom, and other spices for extra flavoring. This practice is popular in many parts of Asia and the Pacific, including India, the Maldives, and Papua New Guinea.

Health Effects

Chewing betel nut is known to have several health effects. It can lead to oral submucous fibrosis, and is strongly associated with the risk of developing oral cancers. It also has psychoactive and stimulant effects, causing a sense of euphoria and increased alertness.

Related Terms

  • Areca Palm: The palm species from which the betel nut is derived.
  • Betel Chewing: The practice of chewing betel nut wrapped in betel leaves.
  • Oral Submucous Fibrosis: A condition often caused by chewing betel nut.
  • Oral Cancer: A type of cancer strongly associated with betel nut chewing.

External links

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