Nutmeg is an Indonesian spice that was exported by the Arabs.Once the fruit has ripened ,it is split into two parts purplish-colored walnut, from which the essential nutmeg oil is extracted.
A curiosity
From ancient times, nutmeg was used in Indian and Chinese culture to treat diseases related to the nervous system and the digestive system. Paracelsus used it to create an ointment to counter physical asthenia, a real soothing balm for the nerves.
What are the benefits of nutmeg?
It is commonly used for food preparation and it is customary to grate a small amount at the time, on foods to enhance the flavor.
However, not everyone knows that he does not possess only
Nutmeg: therapeutic properties: stimulants, immunostimulants and sedatives, but also: antidepressants and nutrients for the brain
- Nutmeg helps purification , when the body is full of toxins and waste that lead it to “discharge”, so it is effective for the urinary tract and to prevent kidney stones.
- Carminative properties, aimed at eliminating intestinal gases that make them appreciate their virtues, for example, in gaseous colics.
- In nutmeg we find volatile essential oils, as well as precious mineral salts such as potassium, iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium, copper, but also B vitamins , vitamin C, folic acid, and vitamin A. Nutmeg is therefore a food complete at the food level but not only!
The uses of nutmeg in the kitchen but not only
- In the massage : It is used locally in muscular and rheumatic pains and when stiffness and fatigue make us vulnerable to tearing and soreness.
We can tone muscles and give relief by pouring a few drops of nutmeg OE into the arnica oil to massage in a circular direction the painful areas in the morning and evening. - In herbal teas : A pinch of this spice facilitates digestion and calms nausea and vomiting as well as being useful in all fermentation processes.
- The nutmeg infusion stimulates sweating and helps to lower fever, taken very hot. You can add grated 1 teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves and a pinch of ginger, let it infuse for 5 minutes, then strain it and sip it. If you want to sweeten according to taste, you can add honey or whole cane sugar once it is warm.
- For a bath designed to act on the nervous system and tone the muscles you can add a few drops in the hot water of the tub
However, nutmeg also has some important contraindications that should not be underestimated:
The essential oil must always be diluted and not used pure on the skin, but in association with other oils (jojoba, almonds, etc.) to avoid allergic reactions. We recommend the use of a few drops because it can have toxic effects. In excessive doses it can lead to palpitations, sweating, concentration disorders.
As a phytotherapeutic remedy it should only be used under strict medical supervision, because the spice is toxic in high doses. In the kitchen it is advisable to use it sparingly because it is not overly stimulating for the nervous system, in fact quantities exceeding 5 grams can cause symptoms that are also serious from poisoning with hallucinations and visual disturbances.
During pregnancy, always consult your doctor before taking products containing a lot of nutmeg.
