supari

Supari is the common name in several South Asian languages for the areca nut, the seed of the Areca catechu palm. It is traditionally chewed as part of a betel quid (paan) along with betel leaf, lime, and sometimes tobacco, spices, or sweeteners. The term supari also refers to the nut in dried or processed form. The practice is widespread in India, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Indonesia, and parts of Southeast Asia and among related communities worldwide.

Preparation and consumption: The nut is usually dried and sometimes roasted; it is sold as whole nuts, slices, chips, or flavored versions. In betel quid chewing, the nut releases arecoline, a stimulant, producing a mild euphoric and a drying sensation; lime is often added to facilitate the release of alkaloids. Flavored forms exist; sometimes salted or roasted. Supari chewing has social and ceremonial uses in many communities, such as hospitality or festive occasions.

Health effects and regulation: Regular areca nut chewing carries health risks. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies areca nut as carcinogenic to humans, with links to oral cancers, oral submucous fibrosis, tooth wear, and other mucosal lesions. Risks increase with duration and frequency of use, and with concurrent tobacco consumption. Some countries regulate sale, require warning labels, restrict access to minors, or ban areca nut products.

Other usage: In Indian subcontinent, “supari” also refers to a contract killing; the term is used in media to describe murder-for-hire arrangements.