Betel Palm- Herbals

Betel Palm (Areca Catechu- Raw Sweetened Leaves and
Nuts, Member of the Palmaceae (Palms) Family)

Native- to Cina, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, parts of Africa, and the
Philippines
 Other Names- Areca Nut, Betal, Betal Nut, Maag, Marg, Hmarg, Paan,
Supai, Pinang, Pan Parag, Pan Masala
What is it used for?
 Used for- Cough, Mild Stimulant, Respiratory Symptoms, to aid Digestion,
Sore Throat
Key Indicators/Explanations:
 AVOID- with Alcohol, Atropine, Glaucoma Drugs, Heart Drugs (Beta
Blockers), if a High Risk of Cancer of the Mouth, Esophagus, Squamous Cell
Cancer, Pregnant, Breast Feeding
Signs and Symptoms:
 Anxiety, Blurred Vision, Constipation, Cold Sweats, Diarrhea, Fever, Facial
Flushing, Slow or Fast Heartbeat, Insomnia, Hallucinations, Muscle
Paralysis, Muscle Jerking, Pale Skin, Nervousness, Stomach Cramps,
Restlessness, Small or Large Pupils, Worsening of Asthma, Vomiting, High
Blood Pressure,
 Prolonged Use- Red Staining Inside the Mouth and Teeth, Inflammation of
the Gums and Tissue, Increased Risk of Mouth and Esophagus Cancer,
Calcium Loss from the Teeth;
o Excessive Chewing- Nausea, Vomiting, Dizziness, Diarrhea, Seizures
(similar to excessive nicotine use)
Recommend:
 Betel Palm- available as Oil and Raw Leaves
 Betel Nuts- Sweetened with Lime, wrapped in the leaf of the Vine and
Chewed, can take up to 15 minutes, 15 quids daily
What can I do?
*See your Health Care Provider
*See a Food Fitness First Registered Dietitian- on line for help