Nutmeg

Synonyms in a broader sense

Latin name: Myristica officinalis Genus: Nutmeg

Plant description

Native to the tropics, the tree grows wild or in cultures up to 15 m high. The leaves are evergreen, with entire margins and elongated (10 to 12 cm long). Fragrant pale yellow flowers, very similar to our lily of the valley. Only after a few years do the female nutmeg trees bear fruit that is very similar to peaches.

Medicinally used ingredients

The seeds and the essential oil prepared from them. One harvests the ripe fruits, removes the pulp and extracts the seeds. These are dried and then whipped to extract the kernel, the actual nutmeg.

Ingredients

Fatty oil, protein, starch and essential oil from the seeds (terpenes and the poisonous myristicin)

Curative effects and application

The essential oil is rarely a component of strengthening and stomach remedies. Externally, nutmeg oil can be found next to camphor and eucalyptus oil in mixtures against colds or rheumatic diseases. In the past, nutmeg was known as an abortifacient. Taking large quantities of grated nutmeg can lead to intoxication-like conditions. As a spice, nutmeg has a greater significance and improves the taste and digestibility of food in sparing quantities.

Side effects

Side effects may occur in the form of intoxication when overdosed. Pregnant women should refrain from using it completely.