Detailed Description of Betel Nut

1. Shape:

Betel nuts are nearly spherical in shape, slightly flattened at both ends. The average size of a betel nut is about 2-4 cm in diameter.

2. Color:

The betel nut shell is dark brown or black, with a light yellow lụa layer inside. The betel nut kernel is ivory white, hard, and has many veins.

3. Taste and Smell:

Betel nuts have a spicy, slightly bitter taste and a characteristic aroma.

4. Composition:

Betel nuts contain many chemical constituents, the most important of which is arecoline, an alkaloid that has a stimulant effect on the central nervous system.

5. Uses:

Betel nuts have many uses in traditional medicine and culture.

6. Medicinal Uses:

• Betel nuts have antiseptic, expectorant, antihelminthic, abdominal pain, and diarrhea effects.
• To use betel nut to treat toothache: take 1-2 betel nuts, roast them until fragrant, then chew them and apply them to the aching tooth.
• To use betel nut to treat worms: take 10-15 betel nuts, grind them finely, mix with honey and drink on an empty stomach.

7. Cultural Uses:

• Betel nut is a traditional cultural symbol of Vietnam, often used in ceremonies, weddings, and funerals.
• Betel nut is used to make betel quid, a traditional dish of Vietnam.

8. Notes:

• Do not use too much betel nut because it can cause some side effects such as: heat in the body, constipation, swollen gums.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use betel nut.