As a Hainanese studying in Hunan, I should be able to answer this question. Areca catechu is one of the important cash crops in Hainan. It is not only a local specialty, but also the main source of income for farmers in Hainan. It can be called "Huang Jinguo". Several relatives in my family grow betel nuts. At that time, I gritted my teeth and finally bought a piece of land. Now life is getting better and better. A few days ago, I asked, the average purchase price of betel nut has risen to 23 yuan/Jin, so it is not an exaggeration for everyone to call betel nut rich fruit.

As for why it sells well in Hunan, it is not difficult to explain, and it can be traced back to history. It is rainy in spring and summer in central Hunan, the air is humid, and the medical and health conditions are not good, which is easy to cause epidemics. During the Shunzhi period of the Qing Dynasty, the plague was prevalent in Xiangtan, Hunan Province, and many people were infected with the disease and died of vomiting and diarrhea. Later, the local people inadvertently learned that betel nut has the effect of treating insects, eliminating stagnation, promoting qi and benefiting water. So people began to chew betel nuts one after another, but the effect was remarkable. It can be said that betel nut can alleviate the anxiety of sexual life for Hunan people who suffered from diseases and moisture in ancient times. Subsequently, Hunan people began to study the way of eating betel nuts, and finally developed the habit of chewing betel nuts, and continued to form a culture.

I also know that in the eyes of Hunan people, betel nut hospitality is to respect the courtesy of guests and to pay attention to and welcome distinguished guests; Betel nut making friends is a kind of social etiquette, which is necessary for going out to do business and negotiating on the wine table. Even in the face of strangers, a simple betel nut handing action can bring us closer.