Reasons Not to Try Betel Nut in Sri Lanka

 You have undoubtedly seen individuals chewing food and spewing out red juice everywhere if you have visited Sri Lanka or even viewed travel films about the country.  It may be visible at bus stops, tiny stores, or even by the side of the road.  That red hue isn't paint or blood.  It comes from a plant known as betel nut.

At first it can look interesting. Locals chew it all the time and some tourists think it might be fun to try. But before you do, it is good to know what it really is and how it feels.

Betel Nut: What Is It?

 During the day, individuals chew a little mixture of components called betel nut, or bulath wita as it is known in Sri Lanka.  Typically, it contains lime paste, areca nut, betel leaf, and occasionally a small amount of tobacco.  For a pleasant scent, some people also add cardamom or cloves.

Everything is wrapped inside the green leaf and chewed slowly. The mixture turns the mouth red and people spit out the juice after a while. That is why you see red stains almost everywhere in the country.

The Reasons Behind Chewing It

 Betel nut is a daily part of life for many Sri Lankans, particularly the elderly.  They think it provides them a little energy boost and keeps them awake.  It may be purchased practically anywhere, from a tiny hamlet store to a street kiosk.

 In Sri Lanka, younger people typically don't chew it much because they consider it to be an old habit.  However, it still plays a significant role in many people' daily lives and cultures.

The Aspect of Health

 Betel nut is unhealthy while being legal.  According to doctors, it can result in gum disease, foul breath, and mouth cancer.  Additionally, it can cause your teeth to become stained and turn yellow or even black.  Despite being aware of this, many people continue to chew it out of habit.

What Happens When Tourists Try It

Many tourists try betel nut out of curiosity without knowing what is inside. Most of them do not enjoy it. The taste is strong and bitter, and it can make you feel dizzy if there is too much tobacco. Some people even end up feeling sick.

However, a few travelers say they liked the experience. They enjoy trying something local and new, and that is fine too. If you want to try it just for the experience, you can do it safely. It is not illegal or dangerous in small amounts.

My Suggestion

 I've noticed that most tourists don't like to chew betel nuts.  If you are not accustomed to it, the effect may be extremely potent and the flavor is unpleasant.  You would be better off taking advantage of Sri Lanka's other attractions, such as its magnificent beaches, spicy sambols, rice and curry, and king coconuts.

 Speak with locals, see them prepare it, or find out more about the tradition.   But I think it would be better to avoid it.   If you're interested, though, you can give it a shot and see how it goes.   Some people find it enjoyable, but others don't.

 In any case, there are many amazing things to discover in Sri Lanka without having to chew betel nut.