Lime container

Containers of this kind, carved from calabash gourd (Lagenaria siceraria), were used to store lime powder, an ingredient used to make betel chew. Consumption of betel chew is still widespread today throughout South East Asia, Indonesia, Melanesia and western Micronesia. The substance has a euphoric effect and is used to fight hunger and fatigue, as a stimulant during rituals and ceremonies, as a token of hospitality, and as a preparatory aid in the establishment of a friendly relation of exchange and in acts of negotiation. The mixture is made with areca nuts, the seeds of the areca palm or Betel palm (Areca catechu), plus the crushed leaves or fruits of the Piper betel vine, and lime obtained from burned shells and corals. During chewing, the mix releases a red juice that stains teeth and lips and that is discarded as spit.