BETEL NUT (Areca Catechu)

Areca nut or betel nut is the seed of the areca nut tree (Areca catechu) that grows in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia. Chewing betel nut is a long-standing tradition in many parts of Indonesia.

Uses and traditions:

- Areca nuts are often consumed with betel leaves, whiting and tobacco. This mixture is chewed for a mild stimulant effect and as a traditional dessert.
Betel is considered a symbol of friendship and familiarity in certain customs.
Some people believe areca nut has medical properties such as reducing toothache, eliminating bad breath, and aiding digestion, although these properties have not been scientifically proven.