Indications
Betel nut is the seed of the areca palm (Areca catechu), also called supari. In Unani and Ayurvedic medicine small amounts are used as an ingredient in some traditional compound preparations, for example tonics traditionally given to women for vaginal discharge and uterine weakness, and in digestive and worm remedies. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited. Betel nut is a known cause of mouth cancer when chewed regularly, so it must be used with great caution.
How It Works
Betel nut contains alkaloids, mainly arecoline, which stimulate the nervous system, increase saliva and gut movement, and may paralyse some intestinal worms. It also contains tannins, which have an astringent (tightening and drying) effect. Arecoline and other substances in the nut can damage the lining of the mouth over time.
Dosage and Administration
Use only as part of a registered product, as directed on the label or by a registered Unani or Ayurvedic practitioner. Do not take extra betel nut on its own, and avoid long-term use.
Interactions
Arecoline can interact with medicines that act on the nervous system. It may oppose the effects of anticholinergic medicines such as Procyclidine and Atropine, may interfere with medicines for glaucoma, and may affect control of asthma, heart rhythm and blood sugar. Tell your doctor if you use betel nut in any form.
Contraindications
Avoid it in pregnancy, breastfeeding and children. Do not use it if you have asthma, heart disease or irregular heartbeat, stomach ulcers, mouth sores or white or red patches in the mouth, or a past history of mouth cancer.
Side Effects
Possible effects include increased saliva, sweating, flushing, dizziness, nausea, loose stools, fast heartbeat and wheezing. Regular chewing stains the teeth, damages gums and can cause stiffness of the mouth lining (oral submucous fibrosis) and mouth cancer. It can also be habit forming.
Get urgent medical help if you have chest pain, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, severe breathlessness, fainting, fits, or a mouth ulcer or patch that does not heal within two weeks.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use it during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Betel nut use in pregnancy has been linked with low birth weight and other harm to the baby.
Precautions and Warnings
Betel nut is classed as a cause of cancer in humans. Do not chew it as a habit. Vaginal discharge, worms and digestive problems should be properly diagnosed by a doctor, as safer treatments exist. Check your mouth regularly for sores or patches if you have used it.
Overdose
Large amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, heavy sweating, slow or irregular heartbeat, breathing difficulty, fits and collapse. Go to the nearest hospital immediately.
Therapeutic Class
Unani and Ayurvedic herbal ingredient (traditional astringent and anthelmintic).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.