Phytochemical Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Commonly Consumed Forms of Indian Arecanut

A BSTRACT Introduction: Arecanut (betel nut) is the seed of the palm Areca catechu tree. Arecanut is usually either consumed alone or in a betel quid comprising of betel leaf, slaked lime, and tobacco. Arecanut-induced carcinogenicity and addictiveness have been implicated to the areca-alkaloids. In addition, changes in alkaloid levels may lead to differences in addictiveness and carcinogenic potential across various areca nut-containing products. The objectives of the current study were to qualitatively and quantitatively assess and compare the phytochemical contents of various arecanut forms. Materials and Methods: Three most commonly used forms of arecanut; processed whole, unprocessed whole and shavings (tiny fine pieces of the nut) were procured. The crude plant extract was then subjected to various phytochemical analyses and were comparatively assessed. The alkaloids levels were evaluated using bromocresol green method and the results were then tabulated. Results: The arecanut samples showed the presence of tannins, glycosides and alkaloids, on qualitative analysis. Interestingly, the alkaloid level in the shavings (42.55 mg/g) was higher than both the unprocessed form (41.76 mg/g) which was in turn higher than that of the processed form (32.87 mg/g). Conclusions: The results of the present study implies that traditional processing methods can reduce the alkaloid content of Indian arecanut and this in turn may aid in improved processing measures to curb the ill-effects of carcinogenic alkaloids. These findings may not only help in creating awareness but also infer few modifications in the processing of arecanut which could aid in reducing the potential risks.