[This article contains information on medicinal herbalism, read our Medical Disclaimer here.]
Botanical name: Myristica fragrans
Family: Myristicaceae
Botany:
Nutmeg is the dried kernel of the seeds grown on the evergreen tree M. fragrans. The coating over the nutmeg seed is ground into mace, another spice. All parts of the tree are aromatic.
M. fragrans is Native to the Indonesian Molucca Islands. Nutmeg is commercially cultivated in Indonesia, Grenada, and Sri Lanka.
Energetics and Taste
warming, drying, pungent
Essential oils
Nutmeg essential oil is produced by steam distillation of the dried kernel. The oil is a pale yellow color with a warm, and spicy aroma. The essential oil can safely be applied externally when combined with a carrier oil.
Therapeutic Actions
Aromatic: contains volatile (essential) oil
Anti-spasmodic: prevents and eases spasms and cramps of the muscle
Anti-inflammatory: reduces inflammation
Anti-bacterial: destroys or inhibits the growth of bacteria
Aphrodisiac: increases sexual desire
Carminative: settles the digestive system and expels gas from the intestines
Anti-microbial: resists or destroys pathogens
Anti-emetic: eases and prevents vomiting
Hypotensive: lowers blood pressure
Analgesic: relieves pain
Anti-septic: (of the exterior of the skin) destroys or controls pathogenic bacteria
Digestive: aids the digestion of food
Emmenagogue: induces the flow of menstruation
Stimulant: stimulates the physiological functions of the body
Tonic: strengthens and improves bodily performance
Sedative: reduces tension, induces sleep
Relaxant: brings relaxation of the mind and body
Uses:
Digestive System
Digestive stimulant
Relieves indigestion, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and flatulence.
Anti-spasmodic properties are beneficial IBS
Drink nutmeg tea or massage oil into the stomach area.
Cardiovascular system
Lowers cholesterol
Lowers blood pressure
Prevents blood clotting
Musculoskeletal System
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make nutmeg oil a beneficial treatment for arthritis, and nerve, muscle and joint pain.
Anti-spasmodic properties relieve muscle cramping and lower back pain caused by tension.
Nervous System
Tonic properties improve all physiological functions, resulting in relief from general fatigue.
Stimulant properties clear mental fog.
Relaxant properties relieve insomnia and induce sleep
Reproductive System
Anti-spasmodic properties ease menstrual cramps.
Aphrodisiac and tonic properties increase desire and libido
Skincare
Anti-septic properties can treat skin conditions caused by bacteria when applied topically.
Oral care
Numb a toothache
Freshens breath
Here’s where i source my nutmeg
Metaphysical and Magical Uses:
Fertility and Love
Safety:
Nutmeg is non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing
Is unsafe to take doses over 120 mg for long periods of time.
Pregnant or nursing women, should not use nutmeg in amounts higher than those found in food.
Safe to be used around pets?
Recipes:
An Herbalist's Twist: Heart-Warming Hot Chocolate
Sincerely,
Emilee Wright
A Mercurial Consciousness