We can see many Betel Nut Suppliers exporting affordable betel nuts into different parts of the world. Many people in Asia and Pacific people have a deep red or purple smile. But what’s the story behind it?
This red residue is the revealing sign of the betel nut, which millions of people chew around the world. In its most basic form, betel nut is a seed of the palm tree Areca catechu. People typically chew it after being ground up or sliced and wrap it in lime-coated Piper betel vine leaves. We can call it a betel quid which sometimes contains tobacco or flavorful spices.
History Of Consuming Betel Nuts
The use of betel nut has a long history in South and Southeast Asia, as well as the Pacific Basin. Its use on Guam and other Pacific islands dates back over 2,000 years. Chewing betel nut has been a time-honored tradition for 10-20% of the world’s population for generations.
WHO estimates that approximately 600 million people consume some form of betel nut today. It is one of the world’s most popular psychoactive substances. Moreover, it ranks fourth after nicotine, alcohol, and caffeine. However, while betel nut is an important cultural and social tradition in many countries, growing evidence suggests that regular use has serious health consequences.
Betel Nut Is a Burst of Power
Many people chew betel nut to get an energy boost. This is most likely due to the nut’s natural alkaloids, which release adrenaline instantly. It could also cause feelings of euphoria and well-being.
Some traditional beliefs hold that it can help with everything from dry mouth to digestive issues. However, researchers never run tests on this drug in clinical trials. Also, there is little evidence of any health benefits.
Betel nut has cancer-fighting properties, according to one study published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research. According to an Indian study, it may help with cardiovascular and digestive issues and anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
On the other hand, a study published in the South East Asia Journal of Cancer Trusted Source points to a lack of follow-up studies. It also states that more research is needed to confirm any of the benefits of the betel nut.
According to a medical review of the nut’s effects published in the Indian Journal of Medical and Pediatric Oncology Trusted Source, it’s an addictive substance with far more negative effects than positive ones.
Oral Cancer and Other Risks
Betel nut poses some serious health risks, according to research. We also know Betel nut as a carcinogen by the World Health Organization. Many studies have found a strong link between betel nut use and mouth and esophageal cancer. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association Trusted Source, betel nut users are more likely to develop oral submucous fibrosis.
This incurable condition can cause mouth stiffness and, eventually, loss of jaw movement. Regular betel nut chewing can also cause gum irritation and tooth decay. Teeth can become permanently stained in a deep red or even black color.
An early study published in the Journal of the American Society for Clinical Nutrition discovered a strong link between betel nut and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and obesity.
Other drugs or herbal supplements may interact with betel nut. It can potentially cause toxic reactions in the body or reduce the effectiveness of medications. Moreover, Dried Betel Nut Suppliers are carrying out further research to determine how betel nut interacts with other drugs. Betel nut use regularly can lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms.