Discover the 19 Shocking Health Benefits Of Nutmeg and side effects.
The health benefits of nutmeg make it a safe food to consume, nutmeg is a very popular spice and widely used in meals and desserts.
For many it is a simple culinary species, for others a rich alternative for health, in this article to learn more about its benefits.
What is nutmeg?
Nutmeg is a species that is extracted from an evergreen tree with the scientific classification Myristica Fragrans which gives a species called nutmeg, it is native to the islands near Indonesia and is one of the most used spice in the world.
These trees produce nutmeg, which is the seed of the tree.
Nutmeg is known to be a delicate and slightly sweet spice used primarily in cuisines around the world.
The tree is no less important as it is also popular due to essential oils derived from the bark and leaves.
This species is considered a popular dietary supplement that has that healthy touch and taste.
The essential oils that are extracted from nutmeg are very beneficial for health and were often prepared in alternative and herbal medicines.
History of nutmeg
Nutmeg originates from Indonesia. It made its presence in Europe in the 15th century through the Portuguese and Dutch who made it known.
Nutmeg was also exported to the West Indies for cultivation.
Nutmeg was used in the 16th century as a sedative for merchant ship slaves, which had an effect on pain.
Nutmeg is one of those spices that can easily contribute to the well-being of all of us if we know how and why to use it.
Nutrition facts of nutmeg
Nutmeg is used sparingly in dishes, however, this species has many nutrients that make it a source, mainly vitamins, minerals and organic compounds related to essential oils.
These helpful components contain dietary fiber, manganese, thiamine, vitamin B6, folic acid, magnesium, copper, and macelignan.
Nutmeg is a vitamin complex of group A, BYC (B1, B2, B4, B6), A, C, PP, folic acid and β-carotene. Also in large quantities, it contains macronutrients (Mg, K, P, Ca, Na) and trace elements (iron, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium).
Nutmeg is quite rich in calories: 525 kcal per 100 g. Its nutritional value per 100 g is: protein – 5.84 g, fat – 36.31 g, carbohydrate – 28.49 g, mono and disaccharide – 28.49 g, fiber – 20.8 g, water – 6.23 g.
Health benefits of Nutmeg
Below are the health benefits of nutmeg;
1.- Benefits of nutmeg for Pain
One of the health benefits of nutmeg is that it acts as a natural pain reliever, very similar to menthol.
Therefore, by adding it as a spice in your cooking, you can reduce pain associated with injuries, strains, and chronic inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis.
The calcium found in nutmeg can improve bone health by supporting repair and growth, while relieving the symptoms of osteoporosis.
2.- Benefits of nutmeg for digestion
To stimulate good digestion, nutmeg can be ground into a powder that is rich in fiber, which promotes peristaltic movement in the smooth muscles of the intestine.
It can in fact induce the secretion of various gastric and intestinal juices that make the digestive process easier.
In addition, it facilitates the absorption of nutrients by food, which makes digestion efficient and fast.
Since fiber can promote bowel movements, it also decreases the frequency and discomfort of constipation and other intestinal symptoms.
3.- Benefits of nutmeg for brain health
Studies made from nutmeg show that the myristicin and macelin found in nutmeg keep the brain at a normal and healthy level .
This is one of the less popular but effective benefits, adding nutmeg to any variety of the diet reduces the degradation of neural pathways and cognitive functions that often affect people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
4.- Detoxifies the body
The toxins accumulated in the kidneys and liver generate certain diseases, the nutmeg acts as a detoxifier as a result, generates good body health, by cleaning the organs of all stored toxins from sources such as alcohol, drugs, contamination or feed them.
Additionally, the active ingredients in nutmeg help dissolve kidney stones and increase the overall function and effectiveness of the kidney and liver.
5.-Promotes oral health
The antibacterial components present in nutmeg make it a key factor for oral health.
The active components present in this species fight conditions such as halitosis, also known as bad breath.
Nutmeg kills bacteria that cause poor oral health and strengthens the immunity of the gums and teeth.
Therefore, nutmeg promotes oral health, and they are also commonly found in toothpastes and mouthwashes, especially organic or herbal varieties.
6.- Benefits of nutmeg for sleep
For generations and ages, nutmeg has been recommended and used as a natural and effective remedy to fight insomnia.
A small pinch of nutmeg and hot milk is still the effective trick.
Thanks to its high content of magnesium, considered an essential mineral in the body, it reduces nerves and even promotes the release of serotonin, which stimulates a sensation of relaxation or sedation.
Serotonin is transformed into melatonin in the brain, which induces good sleep, thus relieving people with the problems of insomnia and restlessness at night.
Nutmeg does indeed contain trace elements, which do not have any dramatic effect if not consumed in massive quantities.
However, a small amount can help you release various neurotransmitters which, in turn,
7.- Avoid cancer
Another benefit of nutmeg for health is that its potential use against cancer cells is effective, it has been proven through studies that its metabolic compound and essential oil are involved in cell death (apoptosis) in leukemic cells, which decreases the spread and metastasis of this terrible variety of cancer that usually affects children.
8.- Benefits of nutmeg for Skin care
Although the exact component is not fully understood, traditional and herbal remedies have used nutmeg for years to improve the appearance and health of the skin.
Most of the time, it is applied as a paste mixed with water, or even honey, which is also great for skin care.
It can help reduce skin inflammation and irritation, promote hydration and a smooth appearance, and reduce the signs and marks of smallpox, boils, and acne.
9.- Benefits of nutmeg for blood pressure
The mineral content that nutmeg possesses means that it is valuable for maintaining organ function.
The potassium in nutmeg is a vasodilator that relaxes blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and reducing stress on the cardiovascular system.
Finally, the iron content can increase your red blood cell count and reduce the chances of developing iron deficiency symptoms, also known as anemia.
Copper is also an important nutrient found in muscads and helps maintain blood pressure and therefore also contributes to heart rate balance.
10.- Antioxidant properties
The antioxidant properties of nutmeg are very useful for the proper functioning and development of the human body.
Nutmeg has antioxidants that prevent the formation of free radicals that can trigger unwanted reactions in the body.
These reactions can lead to many serious compound formations and can even be cancerous.
11.- Antidepressants
Some of the active components found in nutmeg are able to prevent early depression.
12.- Aphrodisiac action
This aromatic and culinary spice has been used as an aphrodisiac for centuries and also has stimulating hormonal properties.
13.- Production of red blood cells
The iron content of nutmeg improves the amount of red blood cells in the blood.
14.- Eliminate and cure acne
Nutmeg has antibacterial effects which can be used as a natural homemade scrub with a mixture of orange and nutmeg.
These scrubs work incredibly well when it comes to removing acne and blackheads.
When nutmeg is mixed with honey and cinnamon, it is a powerful antimicrobial and antiseptic paste.
Mix each of the ingredients mentioned above in equal proportions and apply the mixture every morning.
Store for about 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cold water. Helps reduce acne and reduce scars.
15.- Fight against skin infection and signs of aging
Nutmeg is widely used for its antibacterial and pain relieving properties. Helps reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging.
16.- Benefits of nutmeg for men sexually
A small amount of nutmeg spices in your daily ration increases sexual activity in men, just as consuming nutmeg tincture with alcohol is effective in arousing sexual desire.
The method of its preparation: a glass of nutmeg powder, a glass of crushed ginger, 0.5 glass of anise seeds, pour 0.7 – 1 l of purified medical alcohol. Infuse for a week, shaking the bottle periodically.
17.- Varicose vein disease
Nutmeg tincture has been used to treat varicose veins. It is prepared as follows: 100 g of honey and 20 g of nutmeg for a slightly cooled glass.
After cooling completely, take one tablespoon three times a day for 20 minutes before eating.
18.- Rheumatism, joint pain
The use of vegetable oil paste and nutmeg powder is used, the mole must be mixed and applied in a preheated way. Keep until cool.
19.- Benefits of nutmeg for neuralgia
With this problem, ointments, lotions and compresses turn out to be a relief. nutmeg powder has been shown to combat these symptoms, consuming a little in a glass of water is a good alternative.
Cinnamon and nutmeg health benefits
It has been discovered that a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices contain nutrients that sharpen memory, reduce stress, or improve sleep, among other benefits.
How to use nutmeg powder
Nutmeg is a common component in many cooking spots, including European and Indian. There are many ways to add nutmeg powder to your diet, including:
- Add it to coffee, hot chocolate, tea, or warm milk
- Use it to season vegetables such as cauliflower and sweet potato
- Sprinkle over oatmeal or other breakfast cereals
- Sprinkle over fruit for an added kick
- Bake with it. Nutmeg is a key ingredient in many baked goods
- Add to seasonal beverages such as eggnog, mulled cider, and mulled wine
- Use it in fall dishes, such as ones that feature pumpkin or other winter squashes
- Try cooking dishes from Southern and Southeastern Asia or visit a new restaurant that offers the cuisine. The spice comes from Indonesia, and it features prominently in the food from this part of the world.
How much nutmeg to eat daily
There are no particular approaches on how much nutmeg to eat per day, its recommended that you should not surpass 1 to 2mg a day. Researches indicate that toxic reactions occur when taken at 5g and above.
How to use nutmeg powder in cooking
Nutmeg powder in foods greatly enhances their flavor. Drizzle nutmeg powder over the top of quiche, scrambled eggs, omelets, pancakes, French toast and breakfast baked goods like muffins. Do so while the the food is warm and freshly cooked or baked so that the nutmeg powder seeps into the dish.
Nutmeg uses in cooking meat
Nutmeg powder is also often used in delicious meat-based dishes, where it subtly improves and sessions out the flavor.
Nutmeg powder also pairs very well with winter squash and dark leafy greens.
Contraindications and side effects of nutmeg
The contraindications of nutmeg have generated a lot of suspicion as accidental poisoning has increased in recent years.
Overeating can have psychotropic, hallucinatory, or narcotic effects on people, and many people have tried to reproduce these effects recreationally.
Unfortunately, consuming a large amount of nutmeg can complicate your bodily processes, as it is a powerful spice designed to be used in small amounts. Overeating can cause seizures, irregular heartbeats, and vomiting.
When used properly, like a spice, the benefits are obvious, but keep the amount in check and find your thrills elsewhere!
Related Searches…
How to make nutmeg drink
Nutmeg and cinnamon tea benefits
Nutmeg and ginger tea
Nutmeg and Chamomile tea
How to use nutmeg
Nutmeg benefits for men
How much nutmeg to eat daily
Nutmeg benefits for female