The benefits of nutmeg They range from controlling cholesterol, blood sugar and high blood pressure. This is a popular spice that is used around the world for its flavor. This spice has been used for thousands of years, primarily for its health benefits. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and secondary metabolites and has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and psychoactive properties.
If you want to know the benefits of nutmeg, keep reading! Here we will tell you everything you need to know.
What is nutmeg?
Nutmeg is a nutrient-dense aromatic spice that is made from the seeds of the nutmeg tree. She is originally from Indonesia. It has a warm and spicy flavor, which is why it is popularly used in desserts, beverages, and as a garnish for certain coffee drinks.
Health benefits of nutmeg
May help treat diabetes
Nutmeg is a rich source of antioxidants. In rat studies, nutmeg, along with other spices, was found to significantly lower blood glucose levels. Nutmeg extracts were found to have beneficial effects on blood glucose levels.
However, more studies are needed to project nutmeg as a potential treatment for diabetes. Studies also show that the oil can relieve symptoms of chronic inflammatory pain, which could be a serious concern for people with diabetes.
Nutmeg can control high blood pressure
Studies on nutmeg have shown that it contains several essential oils, including linalool. Linalool is a strong vasodilator of smooth muscles, including blood vessels, and may help lower high blood pressure.
Animal studies confirm the ability of linalool to lower blood pressure in general. These effects need further experimental validation in humans.
May relieve pain and inflammation of arthritis
Nutmeg has been shown to relieve chronic inflammatory pain, which is the hallmark of arthritis. The anti-inflammatory properties of nutmeg can reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
The seed contains high amounts of myristicin, elemicin, and eugenol, which could be the reason for its anti-inflammatory properties.
can treat insomnia
Nutmeg can also help relieve stress and this can help in the treatment of insomnia. This seed contains myristicin and elemicin. These prominent compounds in nutmeg work together to relax the human brain. The seed itself can also act as a mild sedative.
can improve digestion
According to some studies, the essential oils of nutmeg have a carminative effect, which can help reduce flatulence. Nutmeg can relieve problems like diarrhea. It also contains fiber, which can help with bowel movements.
can relieve pain
Nutmeg oil is often used to treat spasms and pain. It is applied topically to relieve pain, particularly in the muscles and joints. Another volatile oil in nutmeg, eugenol, has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve pain associated with inflammation.
Can lower cholesterol levels
According to a study in rats, nutmeg possesses cholesterol-lowering potential and protective ability. The study also suggests that nutmeg extracts could help reverse liver toxicity caused by high-cholesterol diets.
Can improve dental health
Nutmeg is a powerhouse of antibacterial properties that potentially contribute to oral health. The spice is known to treat dental problems, including tooth decay. Fight pathogens like Streptococcus mutans that can cause oral infections.
Can treat depression and anxiety
Studies in rats showed that nutmeg might also work as an antidepressant, which could help reduce symptoms of depression by increasing serotonin. However, it is important to note that nutmeg is not a substitute for medical treatment which may include medication, therapy, or both.
The spice is basically a brain tonic that stimulates your brain. It also helps eliminate mental fatigue and stress and stimulates mental activity. Furthermore, nutmeg has the ability to promote the production of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. This could help the human body and brain fight depression and anxiety biochemically.
Can help fight acne
Nutmeg exhibits strong antibacterial and antifungal activities, and this can help reduce acne. Nutmeg has been used externally to treat skin infections, rheumatism, and paralysis.
The spice has traditionally been used as a skin-whitening agent, and a patent using nutmeg extract in its chemical formulations is pending. The lignan found in nutmeg evens out skin pigmentation by inhibiting melanin production.
Nutmeg Side Effects
Hallucinations and other mental side effects
Chronic consumption of nutmeg is associated with tachycardia, nausea, vomiting, agitation, and hallucinations. This toxicity has been attributed to the myristicin oil present in nutmeg. Studies have suggested keeping the spice out of the reach of children due to safety concerns.
Problems during pregnancy and lactation
Excessive consumption of nutmeg can lead to miscarriages or birth defects. There are no studies reporting the effects of nutmeg consumption on breastfeeding. Therefore, avoid nutmeg in both cases.
How to use nutmeg
Apart from using it as a spice, you can also consume nutmeg tea to enjoy its health benefits. Nutmeg can also be incorporated into skin and mouth routines in the following ways.
How to prepare nutmeg tea
Add ground nutmeg (less than 3g) to the boiling water along with a piece of ginger. Let stand for 2 to 3 minutes. Strain and drink the tea.
You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to a glass of warm milk and drink it before bed to help you sleep better.
How to use nutmeg to treat acne
Using it to treat acne is simple. You need to crush two or three nutmeg seeds and add some milk to make a paste. Wash your face with lukewarm water and then apply it on your face. Leave it on for a couple of hours before washing your face with cold water.
How to use nutmeg for oral health
You can brush your teeth with a mixture of some powdered nutmeg and a small amount of oregano oil. Repeat this several times a week.
This article is informative and is not intended to serve as a diagnosis, prescription or treatment of any type of ailment. This information does not replace the consultation of a doctor, specialist or health professional.
Explicit or implicit recommendations on drugs, techniques, products, etc., are cited for informational purposes only. The use of this information is carried out under the exclusive responsibility of the users.