From improved sleep to glowing skin, nutmeg is packed with hidden uses. In this article, we're going to explore everything you need to know about this amazing nutmeg spice and how it can transform your life.
What Is Nutmeg?
Nutmeg is derived from the seed of the fruit that the tree known as Myristica fragrans produces. Tropical areas like Indonesia and Grenada are where the tree is grown. What we get in the form of nutmeg spice is actually the seed of the fruit, dehydrated to form nutmeg powder. Nutmeg has a sweet, warm aroma and taste. It's very close to being nutty with spicy and sweet undertones.
This precious spice of nutmeg has long been utilised by humankind to prepare food, heal ailments, and even as a form of currency in certain parts of the globe. The same tree that gives us nutmeg gives us a second spice in the form of mace, i.e., the shell that encases the nutmeg seed. Both these spices have been highly prized for ages.
Nutmeg's Nutritional Content
Nutmeg is nutritious, though consumed in small amounts. Have a look for yourself at what you get in one teaspoon (about 2 grams) of ground nutmeg powder:
- Calories: 12
- Protein: 0.1 grams
- Fat: 0.8 grams
- Carbs: 1.1 grams
- Fiber: 0.5 grams
- Calcium: 4 mg
- Iron: 0.1 mg
- Magnesium: 4 mg
- Potassium: 8 mg
Nutmeg also contains notable compounds such as myristicin, elemicin, and safrole. Such natural medicines provide nutmeg with its distinctive smell and most of its health benefits.
Health Benefits of Nutmeg
1. Nutmeg for Sleep
One of the most used nutmeg health benefits is to help people sleep more soundly. Nutmeg for sleep is effective because it:
- Soothes your nervous system
- Decreases stress and anxiety levels
- Soothes your mind
- Relaxes sleeping naturally
Warm milk with a pinch of nutmeg powder is taken by most people before sleep to sleep well.
2. Nutmeg for Digestion
Nutmeg for digestion has helped with stomach problems for centuries. The advantages of nutmeg for your stomach are:
- Relieving stomach cramping and soreness
- Helping gas and bloating
- Appetizing
- Soothing an upset stomach
3. Nutmeg for Skin
Nutmeg for skin care is becoming very trendy. Nutmeg health benefits to your skin are:
- Combating pimples and acne
- Dark spots and scars lightning
- Lightening skin
- Exfoliating naturally
You can also mix nutmeg powder with honey or milk to make face masks.
4. Nutmeg for Hair Growth
Nutmeg for hair growth increases blood flow to your scalp. Nutmeg benefits to your hair are:
- Stronger roots of hair
- Fewer falls of hair
- Giving shine to your hair
- Reversing dandruff naturally
5. Other Health Benefits
Other nutmeg health benefits are:
- Pain relief: May reduce joint and muscle pain
- Brain health: May improve concentration and memory
- Heart health: May stabilize blood pressure
- Immune system: Antioxidants to fight disease
Nutmeg General Uses
Nutmeg uses in cooking are endless. This humble nutmeg spice is versatile enough to be used in:
- Sweet foods: Cake, cookies, puddings, and pies
- Savory foods: Soups, sauces, and meat
- Beverages: Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and eggnog
- Breakfast foods: oatmeal, pancakes, and French toast
Other Uses
People also use nutmeg for:
- Nutmeg essential oil: Massage and aromatherapy
- Natural medicines: Home treatment for a lot of illnesses
- Beauty treatments: Hair and face care
- Tea: Nutmeg tea benefits also improve digestion and sleep
How to Use Nutmeg?
Here are simple ways to use nutmeg:
1. Nutmeg Powder in Cooking
- Add a pinch of nutmeg powder to coffee or hot chocolate
- Add to cake and cookie dough
- Add on oatmeal or yogurt
- Use in bechamel sauce of savory dishes
2. Nutmeg for Sleep
- Mix 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg powder in warm milk
- Drink 30 minutes before sleeping
- Start with an incredibly small amount to check your tolerance level
Read More: Tiger Nuts Benefits Sexually
3. Nutmeg Tea Benefits
- Boil water and mix a small amount of nutmeg powder
- Steep for 5 minutes
- Add honey to make it sweet
- Drink for nutmeg tea benefits like enhanced digestion
4. Nutmeg Essential Oil
- Mix a few drops of nutmeg essential oil with carrier oil
- Massage to help ease muscle pain
- Diffuser use for the aromatherapy effects
- Never apply undiluted to the skin
5. Nutmeg for Skin
- Mix nutmeg powder and honey for facial masks
- Mix with milk to help gently exfoliate
- Use once or twice a week to get the best nutmeg for skin effects
Possible Side Effects and Precautions of Nutmeg
Although nutmeg is safe when consumed in cooking amounts, there are several nutmeg side effects to look out for:
Nutmeg Side Effects
Nutmeg side effects can be:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and confusion
- Increased heart rate
- Hallucinations (with excessive doses)
Key Dosage Instructions for Nutmeg
The nutmeg dosage consumed is extremely important. Safe doses are as discussed below:
- For food preparation: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon at most daily
- To cause sleep: Start with one pinch (1/8 teaspoon)
- Never exceed: 1-2 teaspoons a day
- In children: Consume very small amounts through food
Who Should Use Caution?
Use more caution when using nutmeg if:
- You are pregnant or nursing
- You have liver disease
- You are taking depression medication
- You suffer from heart problems
- You are giving it to infants and toddlers
Nutmeg Substitute Alternatives
If you need a nutmeg substitute, replace with the following:
- Ground cinnamon (same warmth)
- Allspice (closest flavor equivalent)
- Ground cloves (aromatic and pungent)
- Cardamom (warm and sweet)
- Ginger (spicy and warm)
Interesting Facts About Nutmeg
The following are some of the interesting facts about this incredible nutmeg spice:
- Nutmeg was more precious than gold
- 9 years is how many years it takes a nutmeg tree to produce fruit
- Grenada is known as "The Spice Isle" because of nutmeg
- Nutmeg was one of the earliest world trade spices
- A nutmeg tree will produce nutmeg for over 100 years
- Nutmeg oil is applied to perfume and soap
- There is both male and female tree for nutmeg tree
Conclusion
Nutmeg is much more than a cooking spice. From nutmeg benefits to nutmeg for sleep, this amazing nutmeg spice has many nutmeg health benefits. Whether you are adding nutmeg powder to flavor or enjoy nutmeg tea benefits towards a healthier existence, this amazing spice can enhance your life so much in so many ways. Remember, nutmeg dosage is crucial - always apply a limited amount and start slowly. The positive effects of nutmeg are best enjoyed when used safely and on a daily basis. Safe use can turn nutmeg into a great addition to your kitchen and health routine.
Please book an appointment with the Best Nutritionist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease
