Nutmeg

Nutmeg:  here’s to your health

Nutmeg is a native spice from the Moluccas Islands in South Pacific. The tree can grow to 66 feet tall and produce a peach shaped fruit known as the nutmeg apple, which is discarded in favor of the aromatic seed inside. When ripe, the fruit splits to expose a pecan sized nut wrapped in a bright red netting called an aril. The nut and aril are separated and dried. The nut is nutmeg, and the aril yields the spice, mace.

Nutmeg is an almost overpoweringly aromatic spice, to be used very sparingly. Fresh-grated nutmeg has a more powerful flavor and aroma than ground nutmeg.

In ayurveda, it is used as a natural sleep aid, normally taken in warm milk before bed. It stimulates appetite and digestion. Nutmeg pacifies Vata and Kapha and increases Pitta. It contributes the pungent, bitter and astringent tastes. It is a warming spice.

Nutmeg is another spice that has a variety of healing properties and can be used in a wide range of dishes during the holidays and all year long. It is useful for:

 Insomnia (nutmeg can produce drowsiness so it should be taken when you have a chance to relax or sleep)

Anxiety Calming muscle spasms Nausea and vomiting Indigestion Diarrhea Joint pain and gout Lowering blood pressure Male infertility and impotence Improving concentration Increasing circulation Lowering cholesterol Toothaches (nutmeg oil) Mixed with carrier oil and used in a massage it eases joint pain and inflammation.

Caution does need to be taken with nutmeg however; taking too much nutmeg one to three nuts can cause side effects such as nausea, hallucinations, swelling and shock.