Areca nut and its role in oral submucous fibrosis

Abstract

Areca nut, commonly called as betel nut or supari, is a fruit of areca catechu palm tree, which is native of South Asia and Pacific Islands. The seed or endosperm is consumed fresh, boiled or after sun drying or curing. Chewing areca nut is thought to have central nervous system stimulating effect and along with this it is known to have salivary stimulating and digestive properties. According to the traditional Ayurvedic medicine, chewing areca nut and betel leaf is a good remedy against halitosis. It is also used for its deworming property. Along with these beneficial effects of areca nut one of its most harmful effects on the human body in general and oral cavity in particular is the development of potentially malignant disorder called Oral Submucous Fibrosis. The present paper discusses in detail the effects of the components of areca nut on pathogenesis of Oral Submucous Fibrosis. Key words:Areca nut, oral submucous fibrosis, potentially malignant disorder, supari.

Figure 1

Schematic representation of chronic inflammatory process at the site of placement of the betel quid.

Figure 2

Schematic representation of collagen synthesis regulated by TGF-β.

Figure 3

Schematic representation showing the mechanism involved in increased collagen cross-linking.

Figure 4

Schematic representation showing mechanisms involved in decreased collagen degradation.