Nutmeg is the dried seed of the nutmeg tree fruit which belongs to the genus Myristica and looks similar to a walnut. This is the only tropical fruit that is the source of two different spices, nutmeg and mace.
The herb is widely cultivated in West Indies, Indonesia, India and French Guyana. It contains many natural substances such as volatile oil, pectin, pectosans, starch and furfural.
CHARACTERISTICS OF NUTMEG HERB
– The nutmeg tree grows very tall and may reach up to seventy feet.
– The fruit when dried gives nutmeg which is the seed and mace which is the covering.
– The fruit splits in half to reveal a net-like, bright red covering over the seed.
– Nutmeg has sweet, spicy and nutty taste, is an essential constituent used in most of the Indian kitchens.
– Nutmeg has a very distinct odor.
– Nutmeg is often used as a food flavoring for baked goods, egg nog, puddings, meats, sausages, sauces, and vegetables.
Therapeutic properties of nutmeg are stimulant, sedative, anti-septic, anti-inflammatory and bactericide.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF NUTMEG AND NUTMEG OIL
– Nutmeg oil acts like a stimulator for brain.
– Nutmeg oil reduces stress and mental strain.
– Nutmeg is also good for curing anxiety and depression.
– Nutmeg increases blood circulation.
– Nutmeg is an excellent antidote for cardiovascular systems.
– Nutmeg helps detoxify liver and kidneys.
– Nutmeg oil is added to cough syrups.
– Nutmeg is used to relieve rheumatic pain, muscle pain, neuralgia, sciatica, menstrual cramp, and toothache as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Nutmeg powder heated on the pan with sesame oil until brown is used for this.
– Nutmeg helps in getting rid of diarrhea, flatulence, indigestion and hiccups as well as it improves appetite.
– Nutmeg is very effectual medicine for insomnia.
– Nutmeg oil helps in removing bad breath.
– Nutmeg oil is is used for relief from cramps during menstruation and often provides relief from menstrual irregularities.
– Nutmeg should be used in moderation—a pinch or two is considered safe. It is not recommended for people with psychiatric disorders because of its psychoactive properties.
– Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid the use of nutmeg.