Betel nut
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
The known toxicities of chewing betel nut likely outweigh any possible benefits. Betel nuts come from the areca tree, a tropical palm tree. In Asia, the nuts are combined with other ingredients and chewed similarly to the way tobacco is chewed in the West. Betel nut use refers to a combination of three ingredients: the nut of the betel palm (Areca catechu), part of the Piper betel vine, and a betel nut leaf.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Anemia C
Dental cavities C
Saliva stimulant C
Schizophrenia C
Stimulant C
Stroke recovery C
Ulcerative colitis C
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Betel nut cannot be considered safe for human use by mouth. This is due to toxic effects associated with short or long-term chewing or eating of betel nut. Avoid if allergic to betel nut or other plants of the Palmaceae family. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible side effects:
Altered blood pressure, cancer, chest pain, confusion, blurred sight, burning/dryness of the mouth, diarrhea, drooling, excitability, extreme moods, fast breathing, fever, gum and mouth problems, hallucinations, heart attack, immunosuppression, itching, increased skin temperature, irregular heart beats, kidney disease, lack of urinary control, liver toxicity, low blood sugar, mania, memory problems, metabolic syndrome, nausea, problems with eye movement, rash, red stained teeth/mouth/lips/stool, seizure, shaking, skin color changes, slow movements, stiffness, stomach cramps, sweating, tearing, thyroid problems, vomiting, widened pupils, wheezing/difficulty breathing, withdrawal symptoms including anxiety.

Possible interactions:
Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory agents, mental illness drugs, drugs used for diabetes, benztropine, blood pressure drugs, heart drugs, alcohol, perphenazine, cholesterol-lowering drugs, immunosuppressants, stimulants (like caffeine), vitamin B1 (thiamin), cancer treatments, thyroid hormones, and herbs and supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adults (18 years and older):
There is no safe dose of betel nut in adults.

Children (younger than 18 years):
There is no safe dose of betel nut in children.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.