Betel nuts are also known as supari, pinang, paan – gutkha pinlang, paan and areca nutz. You should know that betel nuts are the fruit of the areca palm tree. The scientific name of these nuts is Areca catechu. It is native to India, Asia, the Philippines and parts of Africa. These nuts have been used recreationally and medicinally since the first century AD. In the traditional medicine, betel nuts were wrapped in leaves with a limestone paste and chewed like a tobacco and these nuts were also used in a similar manner as caffeine. These nuts have a sweet and spicy taste.
Betel nuts are mild stimulants which is causing a sense of alertness. The dosage of these nuts depends on a person so you should always talk with your doctor before you use it. The most common side effects of these nuts include shortness of breath, vomiting and diarrhea. It has been noticed that chewing these nuts can increase the risk of esophageal and oral cancers. Also, betel nuts can worsen asthma. When you are taking these nuts with tobacco, then it can lead to addiction. The excess consumption of these nuts can increase your chances of suffering from the metabolic syndrome.
It is known that betel nut can aggravate pre – existing diabetes so you should be careful before you add it t your diet. It is known that these nuts can increase the risk of seizures so talk with your doctor if they are suitable for you. These nuts can give rise to some secretions in the urinary tract which can worsen the blockage.
Betel nuts can increase the dental sensitivity and saliva production in people who use them on regular basis. Breastfeeding or pregnant women should not use these nuts in any form because it can result in deformation or miscarriage of the fetus and in some cases, even a low birth weight in infants. Also, these nuts can interact with dry medications.
Betel nuts health benefits
Mood and anxiety: It is known that betel nuts can be used to treat depression by decreasing cortisol levels which is known that can increase stress.
Balancing the blood: Betel nuts are used in the folk medicine for the treatment of anemia because they can help to boost the iron levels. It can help to control diabetes due to its ability to regulate the blood glucose levels. Betel nuts have tannins which can lower the high blood pressure.
Oral health: Betel nuts are very effective for people who suffer from dry mouth either is caused by medication or disease. Betel nuts have antibacterial properties which have led the extracts to be used as an ingredient in the oral healthcare products. This natural cure can help to keep gums and teeth strong and it can prevent cavities.
Treats schizophrenia: It is known that betel nuts can help in the treatment of schizophrenia but this can come with some side effects so you should talk with your doctor before you start using it as your natural treatment.
Stroke recovery: There are some studies in which are said that betel nut extract can be used to help stroke victims recover by helping to improve strength, bladder function and speech.
Detoxify the body: Betel nut was used as a detoxifier in the traditional medicine. Also, it has been used as a treatment to remove parasites and kill worms. Also, it has the ability to stimulate gastrointestinal activity which will help with constipatin or flatulence. In the traditional medicine, these nuts are used to treat bad breath and prevent phlegm. Also, they are chewed before traveling because they can help to prevent nausea.
Eye care: It is known that betel nuts can be used as a home remedy for the treatment of eye disorders, like glaucoma.
Increase energy levels: You can use betel nuts as a stimulant for increasing the alertness and stamina and giving you a sense of well – being and euphoria. Also, it can be used as a stimulant for libido and to alleviate the symptoms of excessive heat.
Boost appetite: You can increase betel nuts to stimulate your appetite and to increase the saliva flow for digestion.
