The National Geographic Magazine
From W. E. Safford, U. S. National Museum
Betel-nut Palms
The nut is greatly esteemed by the natives of Guam, who chew it with the leaf of the betel pepper. It imparts a red color to the saliva, so that the lips and teeth appear to be covered with blood, and in time become blackened. In Guam betel chewing is a matter of etiquette at all wedding assemblies, festivals, and funerals.
