Betel nuts are a top mind-affecting substance. Now there's evidence of ancient use

Posted Saturday, September 19, 2026 7:21 am

Pien Huang (via NPR:Health)

New research on ancient human remains suggests the habitual usage of betel nuts, a plant seed with mind-affecting properties that is popular in parts of Asia despite the health risks it presents. (Image credit: Claire Harbage/NPR)

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