What is Nutmeg? Know its Benefits and Uses

2022-03-17 12:34:10

There is an evergreen tree of nutmeg that bears fruit. The seeds of these fruits are called nutmeg. It is an Asian spice. Its scientific name is Myristica fragrans and this is the tree that is the source of two popular spices, nutmeg and mace. Nutmeg is 1 to 2 inches long and looks like a small pear in which there is a light red or yellowish pulp. On ripening, this fruit splits into two parts inside which a red fibrous substance is visible. This is called Javitri. There is a kernel inside the mace. The upper part of which is broken and the seed is extracted which is called nutmeg. The taste of both nutmeg and mace is almost the same but in comparison to mace, nutmeg is hotter in effect and spicier.

Nutmeg has been used in Ayurveda for many years. Nutmeg has antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, analgesic and stimulating properties which work to benefit the body in many ways. Consumption of nutmeg increases appetite, stops vomiting, stomach gas, the problem of excessive thirst and Kapha-pitta dosha are cured. Along with this, the use of nutmeg is also beneficial in diseases like blood disorders, respiratory diseases, hiccups and tuberculosis. Nutmeg also contains many such minerals which are very useful for the body. Nutmeg is available in both oil and sago form. Apart from this, the use of nutmeg as a spice is more prevalent in India.

Benefits of Nutmeg

Helpful in relieving insomnia-

Insomnia means sleeplessness occurs due to many reasons including anxiety, stress, depression etc. In this case, it is good to consume nutmeg. Research on this shows that the aqueous extract of nutmeg has anxiolytic properties which help remove anxiety. In addition, it also has antidepressant properties which proved to be effective in reducing stress and depression which leads to good sleep. In this way, taking a spoonful of nutmeg oil or powder mixed with milk ends insomnia.

Effective in cold and cough-

The properties of nutmeg also include protection against cough and cold. Nutmeg has an anti-inflammatory effect which can reduce cold and cough. It acts as an expectorant that clears the upper respiratory tract by removing all the mucus from the mouth. For this, grind nutmeg in water and place it on the nostrils of the nose. By doing this the blocked nose gets opened. Also, headache is cured. Apart from this, taking a pinch of nutmeg powder mixed with milk cures cold.

To increase libido-

According to research done on nutmeg, nutmeg helps in increasing sexuality apart from relieving fatigue and stress. According to a study, men whose semen is thin or sperm is made in less quantity. For them, the consumption of nutmeg works as a medicine. According to experts, since ancient times, libido (sex) problems have been treated with nutmeg in Ayurveda. It also increases physical arousal rapidly.

Helpful in maintaining the sharp mind of children-

The use of nutmeg helps keep the mind of children sharp and healthy. It has been used since ancient times in Roman and Unani medicine as a brain tonic. It improves the ability to remember by stimulating the nerves in the brain. Because it contains a compound called myristicin. Which increases concentration and ability to concentrate. At the same time, it inhibits the enzymes that promote mental diseases like Alzheimer's. For this, mix a pinch of nutmeg powder in a glass of warm water daily and give it to the children before sleeping.

Helpful in toothache-

Nutmeg is used in the treatment of dental problems. Nutmeg oil has antibacterial properties which are very effective in removing toothache. According to the NCBI report, an element called macelignan is found in nutmeg extract which is a kind of anti-cariogenic (preventing tooth decay). It protects the teeth from oral bacteria called Streptococcus Mutans.

As a pain reliever-

Nutmeg is used as a pain reliever. Research conducted by the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Chicago) shows that nutmeg extract has analgesic properties that help in relieving pain. For this, mix an equal quantity of nutmeg extract and mustard oil and apply it to the affected parts. By doing this one gets rid of the pain in the body.

Helpful in the treatment of gout-

The analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects present in nutmeg help in reducing and preventing inflammation. In addition, nutmeg is rich in antioxidants. They also help in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Along with this, it also removes spasms and strains in the muscles.

Helpful in increasing immunity-

The immune system works to keep the body healthy. In this case, the consumption of nutmeg increases the immunity of the body because it has immunomodulatory properties which actively works to enhance immunity. Nutmeg removes physical weakness and increases the immunity of the body. Along with this, one gets freedom from diseases related to Vata and Kapha.

Helpful in reducing diabetes-

Nutmeg extract has antioxidant properties and antidiabetic properties due to which it helps in controlling the sugar present in the blood. In this way, the consumption of nutmeg is also beneficial in the problem of diabetes.

In reducing cholesterol-

Antioxidants are found in high amounts in nutmeg which prevents oxidation of cholesterol in the body due to which the amount of bad cholesterol in the body does not increase.

Beneficial for face-

Nutmeg has antibacterial and antiseptic properties that destroy germs that cause acne, wrinkles, freckles, and blemishes. For this, make a paste by taking an equal quantity of nutmeg powder and honey. Now apply this paste to the affected areas. Wash it off with clean water after half an hour. By doing this continuously for a few days, acne and freckles go away. Along with this, nutmeg also makes the face clean and bright.

Uses of Nutmeg

• Nutmeg is used as a spice.
• A pinch of nutmeg powder is consumed with lukewarm water or milk.
• Massaging the body with nutmeg oil lightly warms the body, the body gets relief from pain.
• In diseases of the stomach like indigestion, pain, gas, diarrhoea, bloating etc., applying nutmeg oil on the navel outside the stomach or taking 2-3 drops of it in water is beneficial.
• Massaging the head by mixing nutmeg oil with any other oil etc. cures diseases like tension, headache and migraine.

Side effects of Nutmeg

• Because nutmeg is hot in effect, Therefore, in the summer season, consume it sparingly.
• Consuming nutmeg in large quantities can cause problems such as hallucinations, nervousness, vomiting, nausea and fluctuations in heartbeat.
• Uncontrolled consumption of nutmeg can lead to excessive bleeding.
• If a person is allergic to it, then he must consult a doctor before using it.
• Excessive use of nutmeg can cause intestinal problems and can cause dry mouth problems.