What are the effects and functions of betel nut?

Nov 18, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

Generally, betel nut has effects such as expelling parasites, aiding digestion, relieving drunkenness, stimulating alertness, and lowering blood pressure. In daily life, betel nut offers multiple benefits; however, moderate consumption is recommended. Individuals allergic to this food should avoid consuming it. If any physical discomfort occurs after consuming betel nut, prompt medical attention is advised, and symptomatic treatment should be administered under a doctor's guidance.

Under normal circumstances, betel nut has various benefits and effects, including expelling parasites, aiding digestion, relieving alcohol intoxication, refreshing the mind, and lowering blood pressure. Specific details are as follows:

1. Expelling Parasites

The arecoline in betel nut can paralyze a variety of intestinal parasites and help eliminate them from the body through laxative effects, thus exerting a certain deworming effect.

2. Aiding Digestion

Arecoline in betel nut can enhance intestinal peristalsis and increase the tension of gastrointestinal smooth muscles to some extent. These combined actions help improve digestion.

3. Relieving Alcohol Intoxication

Betel nut contains abundant polysaccharides, fats, dietary fiber, and other components that help promote alcohol metabolism and alleviate symptoms caused by drunkenness such as headache, dizziness, and confusion. Individuals who consume alcohol may eat moderate amounts after consulting with a doctor.

4. Refreshing the Mind

Betel nut contains alkaloids such as arecoline and areca acid, which have a certain stimulating effect on the central nervous system, enhancing alertness and arousal, thereby achieving a refreshing and invigorating effect.

5. Lowering Blood Pressure

Betel nut contains a substance that significantly inhibits the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme, which can suppress the blood pressure-raising response of angiotensin, thus providing some antihypertensive benefit. Individuals with hypertension may consume an appropriate amount of betel nut under medical guidance.

In daily life, betel nut offers multiple health benefits, but it should be consumed in moderation. Individuals allergic to this substance should avoid consumption. If any physical discomfort occurs after eating betel nut, prompt medical attention is recommended.

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What should I do if a betel nut residue gets stuck in my throat?

When betel nut residue becomes lodged in the throat, measures such as self-initiated coughing, rinsing the mouth with clean water, inducing vomiting, observation and waiting, or seeking timely medical attention can be taken to alleviate the situation. It is important to note that one should never blindly use hands or other tools to dig into the throat, as this may scratch the mucous membrane or push the foreign object deeper. Additionally, avoid swallowing hard foods such as steamed buns or rice balls to forcefully push the object down, as this may cause displacement of the foreign body or worsen the injury.