The Journal of Phytopharmacology, 2021;10(5):338-344 DOI:10.31254/phyto.2021.10510

Review Article

Areca catechu L. (Chikni Supari): A Review Based Upon its Ayurvedic and Pharmacological Properties

Manish Grover¹

Manish Grover

1. Shuddhi Ayurveda, Jeena Sikho Lifecare Pvt. Ltd. Chandigarh, India

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 26th July, 2021 / Accepted: 22nd August, 2021

Abstract

Areca catechu belongs to the family Palmae and is commonly known by different names such as chikni supari, areca nut and betel nut. The fruit of this plant is called the areca nut, which carries significant medicinal properties. This plant is also mentioned in various ancient Sanskrit scriptures. The plant is mainly used for chewing and religious purposes of the Hindus of India. India is the largest consumer and producer of areca nut globally, which produces about 52% of the world production. Medicinally, the plant is used to treat leucoderma, diarrhea, anaemia, obesity, leprosy etc. In Ayurveda, the plant is astringent, diuretic, digestion-promoting, stimulant, wound healing and laxative agent. The plant is associated with various therapeutic and pharmacological potentials, including wound healing, antidepressant, antihelmintic, antihypertensive, antioxidant, antiallergic, antifungal and antimicrobial properties. However, this plant is considered as carcinogenic as it can cause mouth cancer. In this review article, attempts have been made to summarize the phytochemistry, folk uses and ayurvedic uses along with its pharmacological activities.