What are the functions and effects of betel nut?

Nov 25, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

Betel nut is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. Under normal circumstances, betel nut has effects and functions such as promoting salivation, refreshing the mind, antibacterial and analgesic effects, regulating qi flow to promote diuresis, and expelling parasites. The alkaloid components in betel nut can stimulate the central nervous system, increase brain excitability, and have a temporary effect of refreshing the mind and relieving fatigue.

Areca nut is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. Under normal circumstances, the effects and functions of areca nut include promoting salivation, refreshing the mind, antibacterial and analgesic effects, regulating qi flow, facilitating diuresis, and expelling parasites. If needed, it is recommended to use under the guidance of a physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Promoting Salivation

Chewing areca nut can stimulate the salivary glands to secrete more saliva, helping to clean the mouth and prevent oral diseases.

2. Refreshing the Mind

The alkaloid components in areca nut can stimulate the central nervous system and increase brain excitability, providing a temporary effect of refreshing the mind and relieving fatigue.

3. Antibacterial and Analgesic Effects

Components in areca nut have antibacterial properties, helping resist certain bacterial and parasitic infections. It also has certain analgesic effects and can be used to relieve toothaches or other mild pains.

4. Regulating Qi Flow and Promoting Diuresis

Areca nut possesses the effects of regulating qi circulation and promoting diuresis, facilitating the elimination of excess water from the body, reducing edema symptoms. It is commonly used in treating conditions such as excess edema and foot pain caused by cold-dampness.

5. Expelling Parasites

The alkaloid components in areca nut can paralyze parasites, rendering them immobile, and expel them from the body through laxative effects.

However, it should be noted that long-term and excessive consumption of areca nut may pose health risks, including severe diseases such as oral cancer and esophageal cancer.

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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.