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

Society · en

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

NPR · Sep 19, 2026, 11:21 AM UTC

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.