Catechu is a plant in the Mimosaceae or Rubiaceae family. There are two types: black catechu and pale catechu. It's been traditionally used in Ayurveda.
Catechu contains chemicals that might reduce swelling and pain. They might also have antiviral and antibacterial effects.
People use catechu for muscle soreness after exercise, osteoarthritis, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
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