While it’s true that betel nut is chewed by so many people across the planet, it’s not a good idea for you to follow suit. That’s because scientists say that chewing betel nut can actually increase a person’s risk of developing cancer of the mouth and esophagus!

However, this does not mean that betel nut is pure evil. When used with the help of an experienced herbalist and in the correct manner, betel nut can actually be very beneficial.

Let’s not waste any more time, shall we?

Fights Off Iron-Deficiency Anemia

One of the many traditional uses of betel nut (other than for chewing) is for the prevention as well as reversal of anemia that is due to lack of iron in the body or excessive blood loss, such as during menstruation or after childbirth. That’s because the iron content of betel nut encourages the body’s production of red blood cells (RBCs) that make it possible for oxygen to be carried to various tissues and organs by means of the bloodstream.

Eliminates Intestinal Parasites

Having parasitic worms in the gut is not a good thing as it robs your body of much-needed nutrients, plus they can do damage to one’s overall health if left unmanaged. Folk healers actually employ betel nut for killing or driving out parasitic worms in the intestines, including tapeworms and roundworms.

Alleviates Nausea and Vomiting

Betel nut is commonly utilized for putting an end to nausea. In areas where it’s native to, betel nut is also a well-known remedy for vomiting. When used appropriately, it may also provide relief from indigestion.

Provides Relief From Dysentery

Another traditional use of betel nut that has something to do with the digestive system is for alleviating dysentery. A condition which is characterized by the inflammation of the bowels due to an infection, dysentery can leave a person in a great deal of pain. The fact that it causes severe diarrhea (together with the passing of mucus and even blood!) means that dysentery is something that needs to be dealt with to prevent complications.

Helps in Lowering High Blood Pressure

It’s also said that betel nut is beneficial for individuals who are suffering from hypertension or high blood pressure which, if left uncontrolled, can cause very serious problems overtime. Betel nut works by inhibiting the production of certain types of protein in the blood that causes the blood pressure to rise.

Boosts Energy Levels

These days, betel nut is getting more and more popular as the number of people leading very busy and stressful lives keeps growing and growing. It’s for the fact that betel nut is highly capable of energizing both the mind and body. Betel nut may be employed by those who need to drive long distances, especially at night, to keep themselves from falling asleep while behind the wheel, saving them from endangering themselves as well as others.

Promotes Feeling of Euphoria

According to those who have tried betel nut already, it provided a quick way to encourage the feeling of euphoria. In other words, its intake can make a person feel happy. However, experts say that betel nut is not ideal for people who are suffering from anxiety as it can make their problem worse.

While there are a number of benefits that betel nut offers, there are also many downsides to its use. Make sure that betel nut is employed under the strict supervision of someone who is highly trained and experienced in the use of herbs and herbal preparations. Those who are pregnant and diagnosed with medical conditions should refrain from taking betel nut. Let your doctor know about your plan on using betel nut for therapeutic purposes.