Ancient teeth pose a mystery: What made those strange grooves?
Archaeologists have discovered evidence that hunter-gatherers in ancient Indonesia chewed betel nuts, likely for their painkilling properties. This finding suggests that the human habit of using mind-altering substances is a deeply rooted practice dating back thousands of years.
Why it matters
It provides insight into the evolutionary history of human substance use and the origins of a practice that remains common for millions of people today.
About 600 million people today chew on betel nuts —- the brownish green seeds of certain palm trees that are about the size of a walnut. Betel nut users say they get all kinds of benefits — relief from indigestion, fresh breath, an energy boost.
The medical community notes that long-term betel nut use can damage teeth, increase the risk of heart disease, and lead to oral cancer due to the chemicals within.
Still, many people in Asia and the Asian Pacific are addicted to chewing them. Betel nuts are considered the world's fourth most commonly used mind-affecting substances, after tobacco, alcohol and caffeine.
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