Gutkha

Gutkha

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Type	Chewing tobacco
Inventor
Inception
Manufacturer
Available
Current supplier
Last production year
Models made
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Gutkha is a form of chewing tobacco that is popular in India and other parts of South Asia. It is a mixture of crushed areca nut (betel nut), tobacco, catechu, paraffin wax, slaked lime, and sweet or savory flavorings. Gutkha is consumed by placing a pinch of it between the gum and cheek and gently sucking and chewing on it.

History

Gutkha originated in India in the 1970s as a commercial product. It was developed as a modern, convenient form of the traditional paan, which is a preparation combining betel leaf with areca nut and other ingredients. Gutkha quickly gained popularity due to its ease of use and the stimulating effects of its ingredients.

Composition

The primary components of gutkha include:

• Areca nut: Also known as betel nut, it is the seed of the areca palm. It is a mild stimulant and is known to have psychoactive effects.
• Tobacco: The inclusion of tobacco makes gutkha addictive and harmful to health.
• Catechu: An extract of the acacia tree, used for its astringent properties.
• Slaked lime: Calcium hydroxide, used to enhance the release of alkaloids from the areca nut and tobacco.
• Flavorings: These can include cardamom, saffron, menthol, and other sweet or savory flavors.

Health Effects

Gutkha is associated with several health risks, primarily due to its tobacco content. These include:

• Oral cancer: The combination of areca nut and tobacco significantly increases the risk of developing oral cancers.
• Addiction: The nicotine in tobacco makes gutkha highly addictive.
• Oral submucous fibrosis: A condition caused by areca nut that leads to stiffness of the oral mucosa and can progress to cancer.
• Dental issues: Staining of teeth, gum disease, and tooth decay are common among gutkha users.

Regulation

Due to its health risks, many Indian states have banned the sale and production of gutkha. However, enforcement of these bans is inconsistent, and gutkha is still widely available in many areas.

Cultural Impact

Gutkha has a significant cultural presence in India, often associated with social gatherings and traditional practices. Despite its health risks, it remains popular among various demographics, including young people and laborers.

Also see

• Paan
• Areca nut
• Chewing tobacco
• Oral cancer