Arecoline- boosting performance part 3

Bodybuilders

Betel nut chewing to extract the alkaloid arecoline is now being utilized by many body builders. The alkaloid when acutely ingested can cause a variety of responses in the body which can mimic a aggressive fight response or what is known as boosting. Some individuals can develop a sudden increase in blood pressure, rapid breathing, flushing of face and a spontaneous increase in energy. This sudden urge of cardiorespiratory stimulus is said to provide intensity for athletes to perform well in short duration sports like sprints and weight lifting. Called boosting, this is a very active area of research.

Most athletes are not keen on taking steroids and there is always a risk of getting caught. Plus the steroids have to be taken for a long time to see a response. However, now with products like Arecoline, one can produce boosting of the body’s physiological system and provide extra energy.

A number of athletes have used boosting to produce sudden increases in their cardiorespiratory system by piercing themselves with safety pins. The sudden increase in the sympathetic drive produces an intense burst of energy. This sudden charge is known to improve athletic performance. The response is physiological and legal.

Betel nut has no medical use. It is primarily used as a stimulant for most users. Chinese herbs are often mixed with Arecoline to treat parasites but today we have safer alternative drugs. Others market arecoline herbs as an aphrodisiac and as an anti aging therapy.

Like any chemical, betel nut is safe when chewed occasionally. There is evidence that persistent chewing of betel nut can in fact lead to decreased libido and cloud the mind. Dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea and convulsions have been reported in individuals who have ingested raw Arecoline. The classic features of a betel nut chewer are poor oral hygiene and darkly stained teeth and gums
Because of the nicotinic properties of Arecoline, there is now active research to determine if the alkaloid is beneficial in Alzheimer’s dementia. So far Alzheimer’s disease does not appear to be affected.

Status in Sport

Arecoline, the active ingredient in betel nut, is prohibited under the World Anti-Doping Code 20076 Prohibited List (effective from 01/01/07). Arecoline is considered a related substance to class 1A-stimulants.

Availability

Betel nut is readily available in most asian and chinese stores. The cost of betel nut can vary from $1-$2 for a single leafy package.

Legal
Betel nut chewing is legal in the USA