Antique betel nut box from the Philippines, composed of brass and nickel, with separate hinged compartments for the storage of various implements. The leftmost compartment is built up with slaked lime, which releases the alkaloids in the betel nut. The practice of betel nut chewing is common in many parts of South Asia. Slices of the areca nut would be wrapped in betel leaves and chewed, giving a mild stimulant effect. 19th century Dimensions: 7: x 3" x 3 1/4"