Tag: Areca nut health

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 600 million people worldwide regularly chew betel nut, a substance the WHO has classified as a Group 1 carcinogen. Despite its cultural significance in many parts of the Asia-Pacific region, the question remains: is it bad to chew betel nut?

With a consumption history spanning over 10,000 years in certain traditional practices, the areca fruit—commonly known as the areca nut or betel nut—is valued for its unique properties and plays a significant role in many cultures. Though it has long been used in traditional medicine, particularly across South and Southeast Asia, modern research is now shedding light on the bioactive compounds responsible for the potential benefits of areca fruit, while also highlighting significant health risks. This guide explores its historical uses, potential health advantages, and crucial safety considerations.