English/ Common name- Areca nut Palm/Areca palm
Local name- KANNADA - ಅಡಿಕೆ ಮರ (Adike Mara)
TULU – ಕಂಗ್ (kang)
Botanical name- Areca catechu
Appearance- Areca catechu is a medium-sized palm tree, growing straight to 20 m (66 ft) tall, with a trunk 10–15 cm (4–6 in) in diameter. The leaves are 1.5–2 m (4.9–6.6 ft) long, pinnate, with numerous, crowded leaflets.
Origin- The palm is believed to have originated in either Malaysia or the Philippines.
Conditions required for growth- Arecanut is capable of growing in a variety of soils. It thrives best in well-drained soils. Adequate protection from exposure to South-Western sun is essential to avoid sun-scorch. Quick-growing shade trees have to be planted on the southern and western sides well in advance of planting seedlings. It is sensitive to moisture deficit and should be grown where adequate water facilities are available. Grows in a wide range of temperatures ranging from a minimum of 40°F to a maximum of 400°F. Altitude up to 1000 m above Msl. Rainfall – 750 – 4500 mm.
Uses-The areca nut is also popular for chewing throughout some Asian countries, such as China, Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Myanmar, and India .In India, the dry, fallen leaves are collected and hot-pressed into disposable palm leaf plates and bowls
Common remedies-
For stimulating saliva flow and in aiding digestion (Part of the tree used - Nut ) : Chewing the freshly plucked or stored (in a dry place) areca nut stimulates the flow of saliva to aid digestion. It also has been used to stimulate the appetite. Chewing also reduces bad breath.
