Areca catechu

Areca catechu is a species of palm which grows in much of the tropical Pacific, Asia, and parts of east Africa. The palm is believed to have originated in the Philippines, but is widespread due to its cultivation for its fruit, the areca nut.

Description

The Areca catechu is a medium-sized and slender palm tree, growing straight to approximately 20 meters. The leaves are 1.5–2 meters long, pinnate, with numerous, crowded leaflets. It is also known for its yellowish-white flowers.

Cultivation and uses

The Areca catechu is grown for its commercially important seed crop, the areca nut. The nut's alkaloids are known to have a stimulating effect when chewed, and it is used as a recreational drug in many parts of the world. The nut is also used in traditional medicine, and as a flavoring in certain types of cooking.

In addition to its use for the production of areca nuts, the tree is also used for its wood, which is used in the construction of furniture and in building construction.

Health effects

Chewing the areca nut is known to be a major risk factor for diseases of the mouth and esophagus. It also has psychoactive and stimulant effects. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the areca nut as a Group 1 carcinogen.

See also

• Betel
• Palm tree
• Tropical agriculture