[Comparative Study of Arecoline Contents of Areca catechu Seeds by Traditional Slice Method and Fresh-cut Method].

Objective: To compare the arecoline content of Areca catechu seeds processed by traditional slice method and fresh-cut method,in order to provide scientific basis for processing method of Areca catechu seeds. Methods: The arecoline content was analyzed by using HPLC method. Results: The arecoline content of Areca catechu seeds by fresh-cut method was 1. 88 times of that by traditional slice method. As the betel nut is hard, compact and thus not easy to be soaked in water, it was traditionally softened by means of the combination of water immersion and pouring methods, which took too much time. Also, the effective constituent of Areca catechu seeds was soluble in water. Consequently, the traditional method of softening usually resulted in the loss of the effective constituent and even the decay of the betel nut, lowering the quality of the decoction pieces. In brief, the traditional method wasted water, manpower and resource, with low efficiency and high cost. Conclusion: Therefore, it is suggested that Areca catechu seeds should be cut into slices when fresh.