A man shared his experience with what he calls the ‘world’s most addictive’ substance. Although drugs offer certain medical benefits, their addictive nature poses significant challenges for countless individuals globally.
TikTok user Nolan Saumure, known as @nolansaumure on the platform, showcased his interaction with a drug he refers to as the ‘world’s most addictive’. Nolan is known for documenting his travels and escapades on TikTok.
During a recent trip to the Philippines, Nolan decided to try ‘moma’, also recognized as betel nut.
He recorded his visit to a small shop where he inquired about purchasing betel nut.
Upon confirming that the shop sold it, Nolan noted: “Chewing betel in parts of Asia is more common than smoking cigarettes, and in some places, it’s common to walk down the street where everyone is chewing it and staining the ground with their spit.”
He purchased a bag and sought advice on its consumption from a local.
The local explained: “Inside of here is the betel – remove the outer seed and roll it up.”
Curious about the makeup of betel nut, Nolan found out the ‘white powder’ present is lime. He clarified in his video: “The lime he’s referring to is actually grounded up limestone made to cut up your mouth giving your bloodstream easy access to the substance.”
After sampling the substance and finding it ‘pretty bad’, Nolan decided to hand the remainder back to the man who guided him.
Nolan commented: “You’ve really got to start chewing it and working it in. I at least tried to keep it in for a little bit. I get it. I’m already hooked.”
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation reports that approximately 10-20 percent of the world’s population consumes betel nut in various forms.
Research has linked betel nut use to oral cancers. An early study by the American Society for Clinical Nutrition also identified a correlation between betel nut consumption and heightened risks of cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and obesity.
A study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) concluded: “Areca nut users report increased sense of wellbeing and stamina, euphoria, a soothing effect in the digestion, and protection of the mouth and gums.”
“In addition, areca nut chewing claimed to produce warm sensations of the body, sweating, salivation, palpitation and heightened alertness, and tolerance to hunger. All these neurological effects suggest that chemicals in areca nut affect autonomic nervous system, at various levels.”