Getting High with Ridiculous Crime: Betel Nut and 'Asthma Cigarettes'
Summary
Hosts Ben Bullen and Noel Brown welcome guest Zain to discuss the history of recreational substances, starting with archaeological evidence of betel nut use 25,000 years ago. The trio explores the origins of tobacco, the invention of the cigarette, and the bizarre era when doctors prescribed medicated cigarettes for asthma. They also share anecdotes about modern drug trends, such as huffing dusters and licking toads, while reflecting on the cultural shift from smoking to vaping.
Topics discussed
Intro and host introductions
Guest welcome and show context
Sponsor reads and show universe discussion
Episode recap and Star Trek parody
Hummus debate and pre-game questions
Weird drugs: Disk cleaner and nitrous
Bufotoxin from Sonoran Desert toads
Director's experience and sponsor breaks
Betel nut history and consumption
Betel quid mechanics and effects
Cigarettes vs cannabis legality in CA
Asthma hypothetical and lung mechanics
History of cigarettes and James Bonsack
Cigarette manufacturing and doctor endorsements
Medicated cigarettes and warning labels
Coca, smoking in public, and plane bans
Global smoking norms and travel anecdotes
Credits and show description
Black Tuna Gang and cocaine era
Outro and final sponsor reads
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