Erowid
 
 
Plants - Drugs Mind - Spirit Freedom - Law Arts - Culture Library  
 
betel
Review Erowid at GreatNonprofits.org
Help us be a "Top Rated Nonprofit" again this year and spread
honest info (good or bad) about psychedelics & other psychoactive drugs.
("Share Your Story" link. Needs quick login creation but no verification of contact info)
Betel Nut / Areca Nut
BOTANICAL CLASSIFICATION
Family :
Arecaceae (=Palmaceae)
Genus :
Areca
Species :
catechu
COMMON NAMES
Betel nut; Paans (the combination of Betel leaves, lime, & Areca catechu)
EFFECTS CLASSIFICATION
Stimulant
DESCRIPTION
The fruit of the Areca catechu palm tree, also known as the "Betel Nut", contain the stimulant arecoline. Native to SE Asia, the nuts are ground and often combined with mineral lime and wrapped in the leaf of a Betel pepper plant, although they are sometimes consumed buccally ('chewed') alone. Notably, frequent use can stain teeth black and its daily use is associated with increased risk of mouth cancers. Variants of the betel and lime combination are extremely common in many Asian cultures and have a long history of human use.
BASICS EFFECTS IMAGES HEALTH LAW DOSE CHEMISTRY