Nutmeg is a popular spice made from the seeds of Myristica fragrans, a tropical evergreen tree native to Indonesia It can be found in whole-seed form but is most often sold as a ground spice.
It has a warm, slightly nutty flavor and is often used in desserts and curries, as well as drinks like mulled wine and chai tea.
Although it’s more commonly used for its flavor than its health benefits, nutmeg contains an impressive array of powerful compounds that may help prevent disease and promote your overall health.
1. Contains powerful antioxidants
Though small in size, the seeds from which nutmeg is derived are rich in plant compounds that act as antioxidants in the body. Antioxidants are compounds that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. These are molecules that have an unpaired electron, which makes them unstable and reactive. When free radical levels become too many, oxidative stress occurs. It’s associated with the onset and progression of many chronic conditions, such as certain cancers and heart and neurodegenerative diseases. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, preventing cellular damage by keeping free radical levels in check. Nutmeg is rich in antioxidants, including phenolic compounds, essential oils, and plant pigments, all of which help prevent cellular damage and may protect against chronic diseases.
2. Has anti-inflammatory properties
Chronic inflammation is linked to many adverse health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Nutmeg is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds called monoterpenes, including sabinene, terpineol, and pinene. These may help reduce inflammationand benefit those with inflammatory conditions. What’s more, the wide array of antioxidants found in the spice, such as cyanidins and phenolic compounds, also have powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
3. May boost libido
Some animal studies show that nutmeg may enhance sex drive and performance. Researchers still aren’t sure exactly how the spice enhances libido. Some surmise these effects are due to its ability to stimulate the nervous system, along with its high content of powerful plant compounds.In traditional medicine, such as the Unani system of medicine used in South Asia, nutmeg is used to treat sexual disorders.
4. Has antibacterial properties
A test-tube study found that nutmeg extract demonstrated powerful antibacterial effects against harmful strains of bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, known to cause dental cavities and gum disease. Nutmeg has also been found to inhibit the growth of harmful strains of E. coli bacteria. , such as O157. While it’s clear that nutmeg has antibacterial properties, more human studies are needed to determine whether it can treat bacterial infections or prevent bacteria-related oral health issues in humans.
5. May benefit heart health. Animal studies show that taking high-dose nutmeg supplements reduced heart disease risk factors, such as high cholesterol and high triglyceride levels.
6. Could boost mood.
7. May improve blood sugar control.
8. Is versatile and delicious
This popular spice has a variety of uses in the kitchen. You can use it alone or pair it with other spices, such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
Precautions:
Essential ois are to be used diluted in a vapourizer or topically, these are not safe to take internally.
Though nutmeg is unlikely to cause harm when consumed in small quantities, taking it in high doses may cause adverse side effects.
It contains the compounds myristicin and safrole. When ingested in large amounts, they can cause symptoms like hallucinations and loss of muscle coordination.
Clinical Reference:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/nutmeg-benefits#section8
