Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans & Myristica spp.) is a spice that is made from several Myristica species, notably Myristica fragrans, or True Nutmeg.
The M. fragrans tree, from the Moluccas (Spice Islands) of Indonesia, produces a fruit from which we derive two spices: nutmeg from the seed, and mace from the seed covering.
Though most people know nutmeg as one of the warming sweet spices, they may be shocked to know that in larger quantities, nutmeg can produce psychoactive effects such as hallucinations and feelings of detachment from reality!
In the processing of the spice, the nutmeg fruits are typically sun-dried and then the seed coat is broken to free the shrunken and dried nutmeg seed.
On the other hand, for the processing of mace, the crimson colored seed aril is removed from the seed and dried.
Beyond its use as a spice, nutmeg has versatile applications. The wood of the nutmeg tree is occasionally used in construction and carpentry, while the oil extracted from the seeds has been employed in perfumery and cosmetics. Additionally, the plant has been used in traditional dyeing processes, where the outer fruit’s husk can produce a brownish-yellow dye.
The nutmeg spice is often used for baked goods, as well as warm drinks, eggnog, sauces and puddings. The mace spice is more delicate in its flavor and also used for baked goods, flavoring meats & fish and also for pickling.
Nutmeg has a traditional herbal medicine history for its warming effect, and uses such as digestive complaints, insomnia, pain, inflammation and diarrhea. It is used topically as an analgesic for mouth sores and toothache. Its oral use is mostly focused at benefits to the gastrointestinal system, such as flatulence, diarrhea, nausea and gastric spasms.
Through scientific investigation Nutmeg has been found to have a range of activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective effects.
Interestingly, in preclinical studies nutmeg extract exhibited significant antidepressant effects in animal models, comparable to standard medications like imipramine. Other related areas of research have highlighted its potential neuroprotective benefits.
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*This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.
Mind-Altering Spice.
