Areca Nut (Noun)
Meaning
Seed of betel palm; chewed with leaves of the betel pepper and lime as a digestive stimulant and narcotic in southeastern Asia.
Classification
Nouns denoting foods and drinks.
Examples
- The areca nut has been used for centuries in traditional medicine in Southeast Asia to aid digestion and relieve stress.
- In many Asian cultures, the areca nut is considered a symbol of hospitality and is often offered to guests as a sign of respect.
- Chewing areca nut with betel leaves and lime is a common practice in India and other parts of Southeast Asia, where it is believed to have various health benefits.
- The areca nut is a key ingredient in the traditional Indian preparation known as paan, which is used as a digestive aid and a breath freshener.
- The use of areca nut has been linked to various health problems, including oral cancer and tooth decay, due to its high levels of carcinogenic compounds.