ContextA book titled Arecanut has said that arecoline hydrobromide, a major active principle of arecanut, is found to arrest the growth of cancer cells.
The book has quoted this from a recent study at the Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, the U.S.
Key takeaways
In a recent study at the Winship Cancer Institute, arecoline hydrobromide is found to arrest the growth of cancer cells.
It was reported that arecoline hydrobromide inhibited the activity of the enzyme ACAT1 (acetyl-C0A acetyltransferase) which leads to reduction of cancer cell proliferation and tumour growth in mice.
The antioxidant activity of arecanut might play an active role in repairing DNA damage in cancer cells.
According to the book, Arecanut in its pure form is not dangerous but has got a plethora of medicinal properties, including curing ulcers, wounds and even cancer.
What is Arecanut?
The arecanut palm is the source of common chewing nut, popularly known as betel nut or Supari.
In India it is extensively used by large sections of people and is very much linked with religious practices.
India is the largest producer of arecanut and largest consumer also.
Major states cultivating this crop are Karnataka (40%), Kerala (25%), Assam (20%), Tamil Nadu, Meghalaya and West Bengal.
Do you know?
Arecanut has been allegedly associated with ill-effects of human health. It is regarded as carcinogenic (one which causes cancer).