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

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...

aath
September 19, 2026
Blog

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)

Source: NPR Topics: News