Other Names: Areca peel • Pinang • Bing lang • Betel peel Plant Family: Palmae
Betel husk is from a palm call betel tree. The nuts from the tree are often chewed as a stimulant along with the betel leaf. Betel leaf is not from the same tree but from a vine (Piper Betie) belonging to the Piperaceae family. The nuts are used by almost 1/10 of the world's population as a stimulant that's equal to 6 cups of coffee. It's effectiveness can be compared to nicotine, alcohol and caffeine. Arecoline is the psychoactive constituent that makes betel nuts a heavy stimulant. This usage leads to oral cancer and prompting governments for regulation.[ref]
The betel seeds is surrounded by a husk. When the seeds are tried, the husk is removed. This post is focused on the medicinal benefits for betel husk, which has different properties from the seed itself. Betel is listed in the following pharmacopeias: Martindale Extra Pharmacopoeia 1972
Information in this post came from many sources, including class notes, practitioners, websites, webinars, books, magazines, and editor's personal experience. While the original source often came from historical Chinese texts, variations may result from the numerous English translations. Always consult a doctor prior to using these drugs. The information here is strictly for educational purposes.
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