Organic Betel Nut Powder

Organic Betel Nut Powder is whole areca nut, the seed of the areca palm (Areca catechu), ground fine rather than an extract. Offered in 7 gram, 14 gram, 1 ounce and 2 ounce sizes, each with slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) as an optional add-in. For experienced adults 21+.

At a glance

• Whole areca nut (Areca catechu) ground fine, not a concentrated extract
• Slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) available as an optional add-in
• Carries arecoline, arecaidine, guvacine and guvacoline, plus condensed tannins, catechins and procyanidins
• For experienced adults 21+, occasional use only

The herb. The areca palm (Areca catechu) grows across South and Southeast Asia, southern China and the Pacific. Its seed, called betel nut after the betel leaf (Piper betle) it is wrapped in, has more than two thousand years of traditional use.

What's in it. Whole ground nut, so no standardization to quote. The tannins develop a deep red color when the powder meets lime, which raises the mouth's pH and changes how the alkaloids release.

Dosage and use. Traditionally a small pinch is combined with a little slaked lime and held in the cheek, not swallowed. Start with a very small amount and only a trace of lime, because lime is caustic. Spit rather than swallow and do not add more in one sitting. Areca nut is habit-forming, so keep it occasional, with no regular use to recommend.

What to expect. Betel nut is intense, astringent and warming, with a stimulating, alert effect that arrives quickly and fades soon.

Side effects. Effects are dose-related: heavy salivation, sweating, facial flushing, a faster heartbeat, dizziness and nausea. The lime can burn the mouth, and the tannins stain teeth and gums red. Reduce or stop at the first sign.

Interactions and cautions.

• Habit-forming; regular or long-term use is linked to serious oral health risks
• Not for use if pregnant or nursing, with a heart condition, or with any medication; arecoline acts on the nervous system, so consult a healthcare professional first
• Do not combine with alcohol, other stimulants or tobacco, and do not drive until you know your response
• Keep slaked lime away from eyes and skin, and everything out of reach of children and pets

Ingredients and storage. 100% organic areca nut (Areca catechu) powder. Slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) optional, packed separately. Store the powder sealed in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture, and keep the lime closed and dry.

Common questions

• How much betel nut powder should a first-timer use? A very small pinch with only a trace of slaked lime, held in the cheek and not swallowed.
• Do I have to use slaked lime? Lime is the traditional pairing that raises the pH and changes how the alkaloids release, but it is optional and caustic, so use only a trace.

Disclaimer. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Areca nut is a traditional botanical, and traditional use does not establish that it will produce any particular result. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you take any medication or have a medical condition. Use at your own risk and keep out of reach of children. Formulated by Healing Herbals, run by a practicing herbalist of 13+ years.