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Nutmeg: benefits and harms for the human body. What are the benefits of nutmeg Nutmeg health benefits and harms

Nutmeg occupies a leading position among the entire variety of spices available. The spice is used in baked goods, meat and fish dishes, homemade compotes and jams. Nutmeg is often used for medical and cosmetic purposes. The therapeutic and prophylactic orientation is due to the accumulation of many valuable elements in the seasoning. For this reason, people are interested in the benefits and harms of spices.

Composition of nutmeg

The calorie content of the spice is 526 Kcal. based on 100 gr. The pleasant aroma of nutmeg is due to the myristicin and elemicin contained in its structure. In addition, the spice is rich in thiamine, retinol, pyridoxine, folic acid, tocopherol, vitamin PP, and riboflavin.

The seasoning contains many macro- and microelements. Among them are chlorine, magnesium, copper, zinc, sodium, phosphorus, iron, potassium, calcium.

The spice is rich in proteins, pectin, starch, carbohydrates, essential oils, fiber, and amino acids.

Nutmeg is useful because one valuable component complements the action of another. The optimally balanced composition copes with many dermatological problems and is widely used in medicine.

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Benefits of nutmeg

The spice is used in very small quantities due to the strong concentration of beneficial enzymes in the composition. The main effects of the nut include giving tone to the entire body and stimulating brain function.
Studies have shown that with systematic and dosed intake of the product, a person begins to assimilate information more easily, his memory and visual perception improve.
The spice quickly relieves fatigue, including chronic fatigue. Muscat helps to recover from prolonged depression and stress. The seasoning is responsible for the entire psycho-emotional background of a person. It prevents insomnia and apathy.
Chinese healers still use nutmeg as an aphrodisiac to this day. Spice has been proven to increase female and male libido. Increases a person's attractiveness in the eyes of the opposite sex. It saves a man from “powerlessness” and a woman from frigidity.
The seasoning is used as a means of increasing appetite. This is relevant for patients with dystrophy and anorexia. It is generally accepted that the special chemical composition of the spice stimulates the desire to eat, improves digestion, and lubricates the walls of the esophagus. Food is quickly absorbed and digested, against this background all metabolic processes increase.
Muscat is added to regular cosmetic oils for massage. As a result, under the influence of the seasoning, fatty compounds are broken down and cellulite disappears. The warming effect reduces the number of stretch marks and removes uneven skin texture. Nutmeg is often added to hair masks to combat dandruff and alopecia.
If you take the spice systematically and in doses, you will increase the body's resistance to viruses. Protective functions will be maintained at the desired level, which is useful for people with low immunity by nature. In addition, the likelihood of vitamin deficiency occurring in the off-season is reduced.
According to some data, nutmeg has a positive effect on the body, which contains the beginnings of cancerous tumors. The nut blocks blood circulation to tumors and stops the growth of malignant tissues. This causes the cancer to self-destruct. Periodic intake of nutmeg will prevent oncology.
It is useful for girls to use nutmeg to normalize the menstrual cycle and relieve painful cramps during menstruation. The spice also replenishes the lack of iron when the element is washed out along with the blood. As a result, when taken systematically, hemoglobin remains at the optimal level.
The spice relieves the oral cavity of unpleasant odor coming from the stomach or teeth. Nutmeg also prevents chronic fatigue, partially treats tuberculosis, and fights diarrhea and varicose veins.
Walnut-based oil is used in aromatherapy as a means of relaxation and normalization of mental background. Usually add 3-5 drops to a bath or aroma lamp, then conduct a relaxation session. This therapy clears the airways, dilates blood vessels, and helps treat respiratory ailments.
It is useful for obese and overweight people to take nutmeg for weight loss. The spice speeds up metabolism, improves food digestibility, and reduces the number of hunger pangs. Blood flow also increases and, as a result, fatty plaques are broken down.
Muscat is useful for women, it reveals sexuality, increases libido, and reduces the number of hot flashes during menopause. The product also has an auxiliary effect in the treatment of mastopathy and ailments of the female reproductive system.
For men, the spice is useful because it increases potency, prevents premature ejaculation, and fights prostate diseases. The spice is considered a remedy for poor fertility and increases sperm production.

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Uses of nutmeg

For impotence

Nutmeg has an excellent effect on the sexual function of the stronger sex. Regular use solves problems with impotence and completely restores male strength.
To achieve the desired result, nutmeg can be consumed with various dishes or mix the powder with water and drink. The main condition remains regular consumption of the composition. It is enough to take 4 grams. powder per day.

For neuralgia

To get rid of a diagnosed illness, ground nuts must be mixed with beeswax, ointment, vegetable oil or cream.
Before you apply the remedy, the sore spot must be warmed up.

For seasonal illnesses

At the first symptoms of a cold, the situation can be corrected with nutmeg.
Simply sprinkle ground nutmeg on the tip of a knife into hot tea. Add lemon and honey to taste, stir. Drink the drink 3 times a day.

For kidney problems

To improve kidney function, relieve swelling and rid the body of excess moisture, you need to consume nutmeg with water.
Take a standard glass (250-300 ml) and add 6 grams. ground nutmeg, pour in warm water. Stir the ingredients and drink 1 sip throughout the day.

For varicose veins

A tincture based on nutmeg has shown good results for varicose veins. Combine in a heat-resistant container 22 g. ground nutmeg, 110 gr. flower honey and 300 ml. boiling water
Mix the ingredients thoroughly and wait until the bee product is completely dissolved. Cool the product, use 30 ml. 3 times a day before meals.

For sleep disturbances
To cope with sleep problems, it is recommended to mix 30 grams of warm milk in a glass. honey and 2 gr. ground nutmeg.

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Nutmeg in cooking

Nutmeg has gained great popularity among culinary experts. The product acts as a spicy seasoning. The bulk composition goes well with meat, fish, sauces, vegetables, baked goods, desserts and various drinks.
Nutmeg extract is often used in the food industry. The product is used as a base for sausages, marinades, ketchups, juices, tomato pastes, sweets, canned fish, vegetable preparations, alcoholic drinks and chocolate.

Nutmeg in cosmetology

In demand in the cosmetic world essential oils, obtained by steam distillation from nutmeg kernels. The herbal composition increases blood flow, improves metabolic processes, and has a beneficial effect on the skin.
Nutmeg ether is included in the base of hair products. Such products effectively restore the structure of strands, improve their appearance, make them stronger and healthier. The herbal composition is used in face masks, the skin is noticeably tightened and younger.
In a short period of time you can achieve visible results. Systematically use various cosmetics with the addition of nutmeg. The scrub showed an excellent effect. Mix nutmeg powder, kefir and oatmeal. Use classical technology.

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Harm of nutmeg

The spice affects the functioning of the heart, having a negative effect.
When it comes to essential oil, it includes hallucinogens that irritate the nervous system and brain.
If you eat 3 or more nutmeg kernels in a short period of time, you risk falling into a deep coma.
Frequent use of ground nutmeg provokes shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
The spice has an unpleasant effect on the uterus. The spice is contraindicated for pregnant girls because there is a risk of abortion.
The seasoning is contraindicated for use by people who have severe neurological disorders.
This aspect is not a contraindication. However, do not add a lot of seasoning to your dishes so as not to spoil the taste.

Nutmeg is valuable for the body if the rules of use are followed. Don't forget, like anyone useful product, if abused, you can encounter a number of troubles. Please note that nutmeg is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

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Video: nutmeg and its medicinal properties

Currently, nutmeg is most often used in cooking and the food industry.

However, since ancient times, our ancestors knew about the unusual healing properties of the plant, giving it mystery and mythical significance.

Ground nuts, as well as whole grains and seeds, can be used for medicinal purposes. Due to its unusual composition, nutmeg benefits the body only when consumed in moderation.

If you exceed the daily intake of nuts, it can cause serious harm to the body.

Nutmeg plant

Initially, nutmeg originates from the Indonesian islands of Java and Sumatra. Nutmeg is a long-lived plant that can bear fruit from the age of five for more than forty years. Every year, pickers remove up to ten thousand nutmegs from one fruiting tree.

The appearance of the nut resembles a peach; however, when ripe, it cracks in half, exposing the core of the seed, which is surrounded by the seed.

IN folk medicine Nutmeg seeds are used, as well as nutmeg seeds dried in sunlight. When harvesting ripened fruits, the pulp is usually thrown away and the pit is recycled.

In order to achieve a lasting aroma, after separating the wrapper from the seeds, it is necessary to dry them over an open flame from charcoal. After the kernels have acquired a persistent brown tint, they are ground and transported to other countries.

After drying, the seeds also have an unusual specific aroma and beneficial properties; in the world food market, nutmeg is considered a valuable product and is much less common.

It is used by chefs to give dishes a more pronounced aroma.

In addition to the two types of spices, essential oil is extracted from the fruits of the nutmeg tree, which is widely used in cosmetology, cooking and oil therapy.

Oil is often added to massage creams for better rubbing of muscles in athletes; it has an antispasmodic effect and can relieve cramps.

Like many other nuts, nutmeg fruits are considered high in calories, per 100 grams. accounts for about 550 kcal.

It contains a huge amount of different essential oils, which in small concentrations benefit human health. Among them are dipentene, linalool, augenol and others; more than 25% of them are concentrated in nutmeg.

However, it should be borne in mind that they contain toxic elymicin, which has a narcotic effect on the central nervous system; if taken into the body in large quantities, it can cause hallucinations.

It is enough for an adult to eat no more than three nutmeg kernels per day.

The nut contains a multivitamin complex, including B vitamins, pyridoxine, folic acid, vitamin C, and so on.

In addition, nutmeg contains large amounts of minerals, micro- and macroelements. It contains a lot of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium, which are necessary for the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system and the musculoskeletal system.

Copper, zinc, iron are microelements that contribute to the functioning of regulatory and metabolic processes in the body.

Among the organic compounds in nutmeg seeds, pectin compounds, proteins and saponins predominate. They contribute to the normal functioning of all vital functions in the body and slow down the aging process.

Therapeutic effect

In alternative medicine, nutmeg is used as a powerful tonic and immunostimulant.

It has a whole range of useful properties:

The main function of nutmegs is to fight for youth and beautiful appearance.

The essential oils that make up it fight against teenage acne and acne.

It also stimulates the production of collagen fibers, eliminating facial wrinkles and maintaining skin elasticity;

Its external use stimulates blood circulation in the head and strengthens the hair follicles, which stops hair loss in large quantities;
For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the nut helps improve appetite, enhances intestinal motility and has astringent properties for diarrhea.

Nutmeg also has wound-healing properties, therefore it is used in the treatment of gastric ulcers and small intestines;

For pain of unknown etiology, aching toothache or muscle spasms, it is recommended to take nutmeg;
When interacting with milk, it has a sedative effect, calms the nervous system and has a hypnotic effect;
For men, this spice is indispensable for increasing potency and enhancing desire. The nut is considered a strong aphrodisiac, affecting both men and women;
The benefits of nutmeg for the liver - it removes toxic substances, cleanses the kidneys and, when consumed regularly, helps break down small stones in the urinary ducts or kidneys;
Due to its composition, the nut participates in the burning of excess fat and reduces cellulite crust in problem areas;
Potassium and magnesium in the composition strengthen blood vessels, prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and improve the functioning of the heart muscle;
With regular use of nutmeg in women, hormonal levels are restored, the menstrual cycle is normalized, and the initial manifestation of menopause becomes invisible;
Essential oils in the nut fight benign tumors and prevent the development of cancer cells;
Nutmeg contains certain substances that stimulate blood circulation in the brain, which, in turn, improves its functioning, promotes concentration and improves memory.
To give a bright aroma, nutmeg spice is added to cosmetic creams and ointments, as well as for the treatment of gouty arthritis and osteochondrosis.

Harm of nutmeg to health and possible contraindications to its use

With irregular and excessive consumption of nutmeg, serious disturbances in the functioning of metabolic processes can occur in the body.

With excessive concentrations in the body, nutmeg can provoke heart attacks, tachycardia and a sharp increase in blood pressure. In addition, coordination of movement, severe dizziness and other signs of severe food poisoning may be impaired.

The constituent components of the nut are some toxic and hallucinogenic substances that, at high concentrations, can cause a euphoric feeling, hallucinogenic types and narcotic convulsions.

You can eat no more than three nutmegs per day, otherwise it can lead to coma or death.

Toxic miracistin is able to penetrate the placental barrier, causing harm to the fetus.

Also, nutmeg pods are contraindicated:

patients suffering from allergic reactions;
for epileptic seizures and severe mental disorders;
during lactation and for young children.

Due to the fact that nutmeg powder is recognized by doctors as a natural herbal antibiotic, you should not combine nutmeg intake with alcohol and certain medications.

Medicinal recipes using nutmeg

In addition to the fact that nutmeg powder is used in the food industry and serves as a spicy spice for many dishes, some of it is used in folk medicine to treat many ailments.

For intestinal disorders and diarrhea, it is recommended to take nutmeg powder on the tip of a spoon, mix it with a spoonful of ghee and take the resulting mixture throughout the day before each meal.
In the absence of appetite and in order to get rid of excess gas formation in the intestines, doctors suggest making an unusual mixture of half a glass of liquid yogurt, half a glass of drinking water, adding a pinch of nutmeg and ground ginger.
Warm cow's milk mixed with a small amount of nutmeg spice can help calm the nervous system as a sedative, as well as for babies during teething.
For the treatment of rheumatoid and gouty arthritis, osteochondrosis, doctors prescribe applying a special paste of nutmeg and vegetable oil.
You can get rid of acne by applying a mask of honey, nutmeg powder and cinnamon to your face, the ingredients are taken in equal proportions.

Men with problems in intimate life are prescribed regular use of nutmeg seasoning as an additional spice to food.

You can also make an alcohol tincture. To do this, take half a glass of nutmeg powder, ground ginger powder, anise seeds and pour in a liter of alcohol. After this, the mixture is left in a glass container for a week. After preparing the tincture, it is recommended to consume one dessert spoon daily.

To strengthen hair follicles.

Take half a glass of chopped nutmeg, pour a glass of boiling water and let it brew for about half an hour. Then you need to strain this solution and apply it over the entire length of your hair, cover it with a hairdresser’s cap and walk like this for half an hour.

Selection and proper storage

Muscat bears fruit throughout the year, so ripe fruits are harvested three times a year. The ripeness of the fruit is determined by the cracked pulp, from which the appendages are visible. After harvesting, the nuts are separated from the pulp and dried in the sun.

After preliminary drying, the nuts are laid out on special grates and subjected to heat treatment by fire for several weeks. In this case, it is necessary to turn them over regularly.

After complete drying, nutmeg acquires a brown tint, and its shell breaks easily.

The finished nut in its entirety looks like an elongated, egg-shaped nut with a pattern of light veins. In this case, one end of the nut should be light, and the opposite end should be dark brown.

Experts recommend storing nutmeg in its entirety, without crushing it. In this form it will be stored for a longer time without losing its taste and healing properties. In this case, for storage, it is recommended to pack the nutmeg in a foil bag or in an airtight glass container and put it in a dry, cool, dark place.

If necessary, remove whole nut kernels and grate them or grind them in a blender.

Thus, nutmeg has many healing properties that allow the human body to cope with serious diseases. However, if consumed in excess, more than 4 nuts per day, serious intoxication can occur, which can lead to death or hallucinations. Therefore, the main rule when consuming nutmeg fruits is moderation.

Nutmeg is a popular and beloved spice by many. It is often used in cooking, because nutmeg has a wonderful aroma and taste. In order for dishes to acquire a unique shade and flavor, very little nutmeg is needed. If you like a natural product, you can buy not a ready-made spice in a bag, but whole nutmeg and grind it yourself. This way the dish will become as rich as possible. But remember that very little of this seasoning is required, “at the tip of a knife,” cookbooks advise and they are very right, because in large quantities nutmeg turns into real poison.

Composition and beneficial features

The composition of nutmeg is rich and varied. It includes:

Vitamin PP, B1,2,5,6,9, H, U, A.
Macroelements such as: potassium and magnesium, calcium and sodium, fluorine, phosphorus and sulfur.
Essential oil that contains pinenes, confen.
Terpene alcohols.
Fixed oils.
The fat composition contains narcotic substances.

Nutmeg kernels are rich in such elements as:

Zinc;
Copper;
Silicon;
Iron;
Manganese;
Aluminum;
Titanium;
Strontium;
Tin;
Colbat;
Bromine;
Nickel;
Zirconium;
Vanadium.

This nut is used in minimal quantities because it is very effective. The main effect of nutmeg is toning and stimulation.

Doctors say that frequent use of this spice has a good effect on the functioning of the brain, and it also improves memory and helps in the fight against stress.

In traditional Chinese medicine, nutmeg has been used as an aphrodisiac and also as a male enhancement agent.

The fruits of the nutmeg tree improve digestion and stimulate appetite, which is why experts recommend consuming this spice in case of eating disorders. Also, if your body does not digest food efficiently enough, then nutmeg fruits will help improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

You can also use nutmeg as a topical remedy, because it has a warming effect. It can be added to massage mixtures to improve blood circulation, to stimulate hair growth - to balms and hair masks.

With frequent use, nutmeg has an antiviral effect, strengthens the immune system, and increases the body's resistance to various infections.

How to take nutmeg

Taking nutmeg is very beneficial because of its unusually rich, healing composition. This spice contains a lot of important micro- and macroelements, as well as vitamins and substances. This is a real storehouse of unique substances that cannot be found in such quantities in any other spice. Therefore, people have been using nutmeg since ancient times. Its use is known even in Ancient China, which, as we know, was famous for its healers and sages.

Nutmeg milk

A recipe for milk with nutmeg will help improve memory, relieve headaches, and help with insomnia. This drink is not recommended to be consumed at night, as it stimulates and tones the body. Making milk with nutmeg is a simple task that anyone can do. So, how to prepare milk with nutmeg:

Bring the milk to a boil, stirring constantly so that the milk does not accidentally burn;
Nutmeg is added to the already warm milk at the tip of a knife, as well as sugar or honey.
To make the milk more airy, you need to stir it well;
This milk should be consumed warm, before it cools down and, of course, in the evening, after 18.00.

Nutmeg powder

When preparing nutmeg powder, use a dosage of 1:10 (1 gram per 10 kilograms of weight). Large dosages can seriously harm your health, cause hallucinations and even lead to death due to intoxication.

How to make nutmeg powder?

Take nutmeg and grate it 10-15 grams weighing 60-70 kg, but you can buy ready-made spice in a bag. Add water until the dish becomes mushy. Eat this mixture twice a day.

Benefits of nutmeg

The benefits of nutmeg are great and simply invaluable, because it:

It is an excellent blood circulation stimulator;
Strengthens hair and has a beneficial effect on its well-being;
Very useful for various arthritis, with manifestations of osteochondrosis;
Stimulates blood circulation;
Strengthens the immune system;
Strengthens the body's protective barrier.

But that’s not all, since the list of beneficial properties of nutmeg can be continued endlessly. If the dosage is observed, its benefits are limitless.

For women

Women will find the use of nutmeg in cosmetology. It is used with various essential oils. Nutmeg has an irritating effect on the skin. Nutmeg oil has a beneficial effect on blood circulation, metabolic processes in the skin, improves complexion. But it is very important to observe the correct dosage (1-2 drops of nutmeg per 1 liter of water).

We also note that nutmeg essential oil is often used in the production of perfumes.

For children

Children can only consume nutmeg after 12 years of age, but for younger children, consuming this nut can be harmful, so parents should not allow their baby to come into contact with this spice. Nutmeg is difficult for children to digest.

Nutmeg in cooking

Where else, if not in cooking, has nutmeg found wide application. And this is not surprising, because the spice has a pleasant, characteristic aroma that will add piquancy, a special taste and an amazing aroma to any dish. The smell of nutmeg is impossible to confuse and unrecognizable!

In powder form, this spice is used in baking confectionery and bakery products. It is also actively added to fruit cocktails. Housewives use it for home canning, adding to various marinades. IN meat industry nutmeg also found a use for itself. It is added to sausages and pates. When cooking meat at home, it is also very popular and in demand.

Medicinal properties

Since nutmeg is a storehouse of vitamins and minerals, it is used in various fields of medicine. The fruits of the nutmeg tree contain saponins, starches, eugenols, pigments, and proteins that help fight various diseases.

Therefore, nutmeg is used not only in folk, but also in traditional medicine. The nut has a stimulating effect on the cardiovascular system. Minimal doses can help people who suffer from overstimulation of the nervous system, as well as insomnia.

Muscat has a warming effect, so it is indispensable if you suspect a cold. We also note that this nut perfectly helps with constipation, diarrhea, gastrointestinal disorders, and poor appetite. As you can see, the spice we are used to has a lot of medicinal properties.

Application in cosmetology

The use of nutmeg in cosmetology is due to its wonderful aroma, which cannot be confused with any other. Muscat gives balms, creams and gels an amazing aroma.

Perfume, which has a subtle scent of nutmeg, will not leave anyone indifferent, even the most discerning perfume connoisseurs. Muscat has a sedative, calming effect, which is why it is so valuable in aromatherapy.

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Harm of nutmeg

Of course, there is no product that has absolutely no so-called other side of the coin, i.e. contraindications. The same applies to nutmeg. Nutmeg essential oil should not be used for epilepsy, as well as for pregnant women and breastfeeding women. People who suffer from allergies should also refrain from eating this spice. If you have high skin sensitivity, do not use nutmeg under any circumstances. And it is also important to remember about the dosage, because nutmeg is useful only in small doses, since it contains the substance methylenedloxiamphetamine and other components that have a narcotic, hallucinogenic effect.

Nutmeg (Nutmeg tree) is an evergreen dioecious tree of the Muscatnikov family. About 10 species of this genus of plants are known. The tree grows up to 13 meters, with a wide crown, evergreen. The leaves are arranged alternately, the upper part of which is dark green, smooth, elliptical in shape, and the lower part is matte, finely veiny. The flowers are located in the axils of the leaves, most often white. A drupe-shaped fruit, 5 - 9 cm in length, the pericarp is fleshy, with a red thread-like appendage (which later changes to brown).

Grows all over the world in tropical areas. The Moluccas Islands are considered to be their homeland. The main island for nutmeg cultivation was the island of Rhun. The dense center is edible. Most often, nutmeg is used in cooking as a seasoning for meat, fish, in sauces, creams, baked goods and in the preparation of winter drinks, for example, mulled wine. recreate without this type of nuts unique taste and the aroma is impossible. But its use does not end there; very often it is used to make body cream, shampoos, essential oils, and decorative cosmetics. Inventive entrepreneurs use the aroma of nutmeg for scented candles and perfumes. This nut contains many useful substances, namely minerals and fats, which can improve health.

Nutmeg calories (100 g)

Vitamin content of nutmeg (100 g)

Mineral content of nutmeg (100 g)

Useful properties of nutmeg

contains a rich set of vitamins and microelements;
improves the taste of dishes;
Since ancient times, nutmeg has been known as a strong painkiller;
will be useful for nervous excitability, help calm and normalize sleep, organize thoughts and emotions;
in small doses with systematic use will help strengthen the immune system;
can improve mood;
causes appetite;
you need to remember that nutmeg is often a spicy seasoning in the human diet; it should be consumed with caution, no more than 1 g per day.

Harm from eating nutmeg

In case of an overdose from illiterate use of this spicy seasoning, the following side effects are possible:

dizziness;
cardiopalmus;
migraine;
vomit;
with a systemic violation of the dosage, problems with the gastrointestinal tract are possible;
problems can also affect the liver and pancreas.

Benefits of nutmeg for men

using nutmeg to treat impotence or use it to prevent this disease;
useful for premature ejaculation;
relieves general fatigue, improves blood circulation in the pelvic organs.

Benefits of nutmeg for women's health

normalizes the menstrual cycle;
prolongs youth;
with mother's milk, the soothing and beneficial properties are transmitted to the baby through the milk, and can relieve pain during teething in a baby;
women use nutmeg to prevent the development of venous disease.

Medicinal properties of nutmeg

can cure pain in joints, arthritis, muscles;
restores the epithelium, promotes rapid healing of wounds;
reduces headache attacks;
useful for problems with teeth and gums, eliminates bad breath;
speeds up digestion;
when consumed regularly in small doses, nutmeg improves blood circulation in the brain and the quality of mental work;
when you have a cold, you often get a massage using essential oil; it has an expectorant and warming effect;
has antibacterial properties;
will bring irreplaceable benefits in the fight against tuberculosis;
treats diarrhea;

It is better to store nutmeg whole and only grate it before serving, since the essential oils from the crushed spice evaporate quickly.

Nutmeg is the core of the bony part of the fruit of the nutmeg tree, which grows for almost 100 years, but actively bears fruit only for the first 40 years. In one fruitful year, the plant can produce more than 10 thousand fruits, which have the color and size of a large apricot. When fully ripe, the fruits burst in half.

The nut itself is nothing more than a seed inside a seed and to separate it, the seeds are first dried in the sun and then peeled from the tree-like shell. The kernels are dried again over an open fire until they acquire a dark brown color. The total period for obtaining high-quality nutmeg can reach 2.5-4 months. The finished nut has an oval shape, 2-3 cm in length and 1.5-2 cm in width. However, some nuts are more round in shape, which determines the intensity of the aroma.

Uses of nutmeg

The properties of nutmeg were known back in the times of Ancient Rome and Ancient Greece. It was used to treat many diseases, added to food and flavored the air. In the 1st century the spice was described by Pliny the Younger, and its widespread use began only a millennium later. Nutmeg came to Europe and other countries of the world during the colonial campaigns of the Portuguese and Dutch. They owned the Mollucca Islands, on which the nutmeg tree grew. Until the beginning of the 19th century. Holland and Portugal managed to maintain a world monopoly and a high price for spice. However, after plantations began to bear fruit in India, Latin America, Indonesia and Ceylon, the price of nutmeg fell sharply. Nutmeg can be found in the wild on the islands of Yama and Sumatra. And special plantations for growing nuts are mainly concentrated in Brazil, India, Sri Lanka and African countries.

It is best to purchase nutmeg in kernels. This way they retain their aroma and beneficial properties longer. If it is not possible to purchase a whole nut, then you need to choose ground nuts in hermetically sealed packages from a trusted manufacturer.

Nutritional value per 100 grams:

Useful properties of nutmeg

Composition and presence of nutrients

Nutmeg kernels contain vitamins (, group B, PP, ,), minerals (phosphorus, magnesium, iron, calcium, chlorine, sulfur, sodium, zinc, copper, iodine and others), essential oils, starch and pectin.

Useful and healing properties

When ground nutmeg is consumed in small doses, its positive properties appear. It has a strong stimulating and tonic effect on the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Nutmeg is used in Eastern medicine to treat men with rapid ejaculation, impotence and other disorders associated with lack of sexual desire and, as a result, arousal.

Very small doses of nutmeg can calm the nervous system and restore lost sleep. By adding it to massage oil or hot tea for warmth, you can get rid of the first signs of a cold and boost your immunity.

If you prepare a thick paste based on nutmeg and warm sunflower oil, it can be used to treat myositis, arthritis, rheumatism and osteochondrosis. To do this, the still warm paste is applied to the sore spot, covered with polyethylene and a warm cloth. Leave this compress for 10-20 minutes until it cools completely.

Nutmeg perfectly helps with constipation, diarrhea and other disorders of the stomach and intestines, as well as loss of appetite and excessive gas formation. To do this, mix low-fat yogurt, water (125 g each), dry ginger and nutmeg (1/3 tsp each). Drink the resulting mixture in one gulp.

In cooking

Ground nutmeg is widely used in the food industry and cooking. It is added to baked goods, cottage cheese desserts, pies, chocolate products, sauces, compotes, soups, side dishes, vegetable and meat dishes. The nut goes well with tomatoes, which is why it is one of the components of factory-made tomato juices and ketchups. Nutmeg is also added during the cooking process. alcoholic drinks(wine, punch, mulled wine) and milk-based cocktails for additional flavoring. In the food industry, nutmeg is used in the manufacture of canned fish, spicy curry mixtures and other food products.

In addition to nutmeg powder, it is also used to make an aromatic essential oil, which is used for aromatherapy, as a flavoring agent in perfumery, and in the manufacture of cigarettes and pipe tobacco. The nut rinds are used to prepare essence (matsis oil), which in Europe is widely used for making sauces, cheeses, and mustard.

Dangerous properties of nutmeg

Among the substances in nutmeg are elymycin, methylenedloxiamphetamine and other substances that have hallucinogenic and narcotic effects. If you eat 3-4 fresh nutmeg kernels or a similar amount of dried nut, you can get severe food poisoning, which can be accompanied by spasms, disorientation, rapid heartbeat, euphoria, stupor, incoherent speech, drug intoxication, and hallucinations. Consuming too much nutmeg may result in coma or death. If any of the symptoms occur, you should consult a doctor immediately.

Nutmeg oil is contraindicated for pregnant women, seizures of epilepsy and hypersensitivity to components.

The following video will tell you about the beneficial properties of nutmeg.

We have all heard about him, but everyone has his own opinion about him. For some, nutmeg is an exceptionally aromatic spice for meat and fish dishes. Others consider it a dessert flavoring. Some people use nutmeg as a medicine, while others fear it, considering it poisonous and capable of causing hallucinations. So, where is the truth? Let's try to figure it out.

These nuts grow on the nutmeg tree. It is not known exactly when it began to be cultivated. But it is clear that this happened more than a thousand years ago. Today the nut is grown in the tropics. It is transported all over the world from Grenada, Indonesia, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka.

The nut and the pulp that surrounds it (name - mace, nutmeg color) are characterized by a very interesting aroma, as well as a burning taste. It is thanks to these qualities that the nut is used as a seasoning. The nutmeg color is considered more valuable - its aroma and taste are delicate. Cooking uses nut powder. It is added to sauces, liquid dishes, baked goods and desserts, and drinks. It has also found its application in cosmetology, perfume preparation, aromatherapy and medicine.

The nut contains proteins and fats, carbohydrates, as well as water and dietary fiber. In addition, it contains many useful microelements (calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium), folic acid, choline, niacin and vitamins B1, B2, B6, C.

The calorie content of the nut is about 525 kcal per 100 g.

To get all the health benefits from a nut product, you need to choose it correctly. The spice is sold in the form of whole nuts and also in powder form. It is recommended to choose the first option. Whole nuts, like coffee beans, have a more pronounced taste and aroma. The crushed spice loses these qualities during the packaging process.

A good nut weighs approximately 5 g. Its approximate size is 2 cm. The most characteristic feature of the nut is its smell. It is sweetish and has woody notes. The color of quality nutmeg is light brown. There should be no large cracks or any stains on the surface. There is one ancient means for checking the quality of a nut. If you pierce it with a needle, oil should come to the surface.

But buying a quality nut is one thing. Proper storage is another matter entirely. If you keep the spice in the wrong conditions, it will deteriorate, lose its aroma or saturate third-party products with it. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended to keep the nutmeg in a container or jar with a sweat lid. This way the seasoning can be stored for several years without loss of aroma and taste.

In addition to its taste, nutmeg is rich in beneficial microelements, which led to its use in medicine, including folk medicine.

For men

There are several reasons why men consume this wonderful product. The most important argument is the effect on male strength. It has long been known that nutmeg is an aphrodisiac. It has a very good effect on potency. In addition, we can name the following beneficial properties of the spice:

Strengthening the nervous system and regeneration of nerve cells;
Positive effect on the gastrointestinal tract during bloating, disorders, internal inflammation;
Improving blood circulation in the brain;
Fighting insomnia;
Strengthening blood vessels;

It is important to understand that, like any other remedy, nutmeg must be used with caution. There are certain dosages and it is extremely important to adhere to them. In addition, contraindications are taken into account.

The recipe calls for taking a solution of nutmeg powder. The stimulating effect of this medicine may last approximately 3-6 hours.

For women

Nutmeg has the same positive effects on women as described above. It is taken for neuralgia, arthritis and osteochondrosis. The nut just needs to be added to the cream for these diseases. Nutmeg warms, eliminates inflammation, and also improves blood circulation. Instead of purchased creams, you can simply mix the spice with vegetable oil or natural wax.

Dissolved spice is taken against colds and insomnia. Increased swelling is relieved using diluted seasoning. The product improves kidney function and reduces urine acidity.

The special value of nutmeg for the female body is its positive effect on beauty. The spice helps hair and skin look healthy. It also eliminates irritability and other unpleasant symptoms during difficult periods: menopause, menstruation.

It is worth mentioning the stimulating effect that also affects the female sex. Nutmeg can increase libido and female sensuality. The product is also used in the treatment of certain female diseases, for example, mastopathy.

This category of the population should use nutmeg with extreme caution. But in some cases this remedy is still used. A small amount of grated nut can be added to milk. After sweetening the drink with honey, it should be given to the baby before bedtime. This remedy can calm a baby when he is teething.

The substance can also help children fall asleep and become calmer during the evening whims. Sleep after such a drink will be sound and pleasant. In addition, nutmeg in minimal doses can be given to newborn babies as a carminative for colic.

For pregnant and nursing mothers

Expectant mothers, as well as nursing mothers, should not overuse nutmeg. The substance can harm the baby and may cause allergies. But the remedy can also be beneficial. For example, during lactation, nutmeg will help improve it. To do this, it is recommended to prepare an interesting and very tasty spicy cocktail. A pinch of nutmeg should be added to a glass of kefir. Just a little crushed dill seeds are added there.

You can use nutmeg as a spice while breastfeeding. It is advisable that after adding it, the dishes still undergo heat treatment.

Traditional medicine recipes

Every day you need to drink nutmeg powder diluted in water. You can consume up to 1/3 teaspoon of spice per day in this way.

For neuralgia

Crushed nutmeg must be added to the cream or ointment prescribed by your doctor. You can grind it with vegetable oil, beeswax, thus preparing your own ointment. The substance must be applied to the skin when heated.

For diseases of the upper respiratory tract

Flu, colds and coughs can also be treated with nutmeg tea. A small pinch of spice is added to any warm drink - milk, raspberry tea or simple black tea with lemon.

To remove and reduce urine acidity

Throughout the day you need to drink a glass of nut drink. ½ tsp. spices are dissolved in 250 g of water. Drink in small sips.

To treat this disease, you need to prepare a tincture. In 1 tbsp. boiling water, add 100 g of honey and 20 g of crushed spices. It is recommended to use this remedy 3 times a day before meals.

Application in cosmetology

Nutmeg began to be used as a cosmetic product many centuries ago. The essential oil of this nut has a very good effect on the skin. Therefore, it is actively used in the preparation of creams, gels, and lotions. When exposed to nutmeg, facial skin becomes younger, stronger, and cells are regenerated. Very often this substance is added to anti-cellulite and rejuvenation products. Massage cosmetics also include nutmeg, due to its warming and soothing effect.

By mixing a couple of simple ingredients, you can prepare wonderful beauty products yourself.

Cream for youthful skin

A couple of drops of nutmeg oil are added to a regular cream, lotion or face mask. Such cosmetics will be useful for sagging skin and the presence of wrinkles.

Hair Mask

In 2 tbsp. l. vegetable oil you need to add 1 tbsp. l. honey and 5 k. nutmeg oil. The product is heated in a water bath, after which it is applied to the entire length of the hair. The mask should be kept for 1 hour under a towel, being warm. It is washed off with shampoo.

The main contraindications for use are:

Pregnancy. Abuse of this seasoning provokes a rush of blood to the uterus, which can lead to miscarriage. Myristicin also has a negative effect on the fetus. This substance is contained in nutmeg, and it is able to overcome the protection of the placenta, penetrating inside.
Having allergies;
Severe mental disorders;
Epilepsy;
Children and old age;
Lactation period.

Consumption of nutmeg in minimal quantities as a culinary spice is allowed, but it is best to consult a doctor. For groups of people for whom this nut is contraindicated, it is extremely important to consult with doctors before using the seasoning for medicinal purposes.

The core of the nutmeg fruit is nutmeg. To obtain them, you need to dry the seeds in the sun, then remove the insides. The resulting kernels are dried in ovens.

After this, they are stored whole or ground into powder. This powder is an excellent seasoning for meat, bakery products, and drinks. Today we will talk in detail about the benefits and harms of nutmeg for the body of men and women.

Chemical composition

Muscat has a very rich aroma, because its components are essential oils. That is why the inhabitants of Ancient India called it “intoxicating fruit.”

Its components are pectin substances, dietary fiber, starch, fat- and water-soluble vitamins, macro- and microelements.

Essential oils occupy 15% of the core composition. The components of the essential oil are terpene, pinene, isoeugenol, geaniol, limonene, camphene. Thanks to its aroma, the product is widely used in various directions and is known throughout the world.

Due to the high oil content - 54%, nutmeg has a high calorie content: 100 g of the product contains 525 kcal.

The oil is filled with fatty acids such as myristic, oleic, palmitic, linoleic. The oil is also filled with phenolic esters, which have a psychotropic effect on the human body: safrole, myristicin. Due to their content, the product must be consumed in small doses; 0.1 g of nut is enough for one serving of food. The product contains vitamins A, C, B1, B6, B2, B9, PP.

Contains macro- and microelements such as potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese. Due to their composition, the kernels are indispensable during vitamin deficiency.

Benefits, medicinal properties

Thanks to its chemical composition, nutmeg brings great benefits to the human body. Eastern medicine often uses it to restore male power: it saves from potency, rapid ejaculation and other intimate problems. It is considered an aphrodisiac, because the aroma excites and increases sexual desire.

It can calm the nervous system, which is why essential oils are added to massage creams. And tea with this additive boosts the immune system and helps cope with colds. We can highlight the main beneficial properties of nutmeg for human health:

improves the functioning of the immune system;
improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
recommended for arthritis;
normalizes blood circulation;
helps cope with rheumatism;
stimulates hair growth, strengthens them and nails;
has an antiviral effect;
helps people with autoimmune diseases.

For arthritis and osteochondrosis, a paste with the addition of sunflower oil and nutmeg helps very well. It will help cope with constipation or diarrhea, bloating, and gas.

Widely used in cosmetology and perfumery, creating new, persistent, pleasant aromas.

Negative Impact

Like many other products, nutmeg can cause not only benefits to the human body, but also harm.

The basis of the negative impact will be hallucinogenic properties. To avoid such narcotic effects, stick to the minimum dose.
You should not eat nuts while undergoing medication or drinking alcohol.
If you eat several kernels that have not been heat-treated, you can harm your stomach and cause serious poisoning. The consequences of such a meal can be individual for each person. For some, an overdose is accompanied by mild nausea and dizziness.
Essential oils have a stimulating effect and are therefore prohibited for pregnant women. For the same reason, it is contraindicated for those who suffer from individual intolerance or epilepsy.
If a person is prone to allergies, then consuming large quantities of kernels is strictly prohibited. Such food can cause coma or even death.

If you notice any of the above symptoms after eating kernels, consult a doctor immediately.

Side effects

An overdose may result in the following side effects:

Feeling of sand in the eyes. Eye drops will help get rid of such cloudiness.
Increased body temperature.
Stomach upsets – constipation or diarrhea.
If you eat more than 15 g of spice, your blood pressure will rise and you will feel dizzy.

Just the taste and smell can cause nausea. After consuming a large amount, dry mouth will occur. This feeling can last up to two days.

How to use it correctly

You are allowed to eat no more than 6 g of spice per day. It is better to use whole kernels and chop them as needed. Powdered spice loses a large number of its beneficial properties.

In industry, nutmeg is added to sausages. It is ideal for dressing salads, fish, meat dishes. Baking will get a wonderful aroma if you add just a little of this spice to the dough.

Take 2-3 kernels, cut into small pieces, grind in a mortar or coffee grinder. Use as directed. You can simply add a pinch to kefir, yogurt or any other drink.

How to choose

Powdered nutmeg is often found on store shelves. When purchasing this, pay attention to the expiration date. It is better to choose the most recent packing date. Store in a glass container with a tight-fitting lid.
If you decide to choose whole grains, pay attention to their appearance. They should be intact, without dark spots, without bugs, and dry. Some supermarkets offer their services for chopping the whole product. This will be relevant for those who do not have a coffee grinder at home.
Whole kernels can be stored for one year in a cool, dry place. A glass bowl or cloth bag is ideal.

Currently, nutmeg is most often used in cooking and the food industry.

However, since ancient times, our ancestors knew about the unusual healing properties of the plant, giving it mystery and mythical significance.

Ground nuts, as well as whole grains and seeds, can be used for medicinal purposes. Due to its unusual composition, nutmeg benefits the body only when consumed in moderation.

If you exceed the daily intake of nuts, it can cause serious harm to the body.

The appearance of the nut resembles a peach; however, when ripe, it cracks in half, exposing the core of the seed, which is surrounded by the seed.

In folk medicine, nutmeg seeds are used, as well as nutmeg seeds dried in sunlight. When harvesting ripened fruits, the pulp is usually thrown away and the pit is recycled.

After drying, the seeds also have an unusual specific aroma and beneficial properties; in the world food market, nutmeg is considered a valuable product and is much less common.

It is used by chefs to give dishes a more pronounced aroma.

In addition to the two types of spices, essential oil is extracted from the fruits of the nutmeg tree, which is widely used in cosmetology, cooking and oil therapy.

Oil is often added to massage creams for better rubbing of muscles in athletes; it has an antispasmodic effect and can relieve cramps.

Useful properties of nutmeg

Like many other nuts, nutmeg fruits are considered high in calories, per 100 grams. accounts for about 550 kcal.

It is enough for an adult to eat no more than three nutmeg kernels per day.

The nut contains a multivitamin complex, pyridoxine, folic acid, vitamin C and so on.

In addition, nutmeg contains large amounts of minerals, micro- and macroelements. It contains phosphorus and essential for the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system and the musculoskeletal system.

Copper is a microelement that promotes the functioning of regulatory and metabolic processes in the body.

Therapeutic effect

In alternative medicine, nutmeg is used as a powerful tonic and immunostimulant.

It has a whole range of useful properties:

The main function of nutmegs is to fight for youth and beautiful appearance.

The essential oils that make up it fight against teenage acne and acne.

It also stimulates the production of collagen fibers, eliminating facial wrinkles and maintaining skin elasticity;

Its external use stimulates blood circulation in the head and strengthens the hair follicles, which stops hair loss in large quantities;
For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the nut helps improve appetite, enhances intestinal motility and has astringent properties for diarrhea.

Nutmeg also has wound-healing properties, therefore it is used in the treatment of gastric ulcers and small intestines;

For pain of unknown etiology, aching toothache or muscle spasms, it is recommended to take nutmeg;
When interacting with milk, it has a sedative effect, calms the nervous system and has a hypnotic effect;
For men, this spice is indispensable for increasing potency and enhancing desire. The nut is considered a strong aphrodisiac, affecting both men and women;
The benefits of nutmeg for the liver - it removes toxic substances, cleanses the kidneys and, when consumed regularly, helps break down small stones in the urinary ducts or kidneys;
Due to its composition, the nut participates in the burning of excess fat and reduces cellulite crust in problem areas;
Potassium and magnesium in the composition strengthen blood vessels, prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and improve the functioning of the heart muscle;
With regular use of nutmeg in women, hormonal levels are restored, the menstrual cycle is normalized, and the initial manifestation of menopause becomes invisible;
Essential oils in the nut fight benign tumors and prevent the development of cancer cells;
Nutmeg contains certain substances that stimulate blood circulation in the brain, which, in turn, improves its functioning, promotes concentration and improves memory.
To give a bright aroma, nutmeg spice is added to cosmetic creams and ointments, as well as for the treatment of gouty arthritis and osteochondrosis.

Harm of nutmeg to health and possible contraindications to its use

With irregular and excessive consumption of nutmeg, serious disturbances in the functioning of metabolic processes can occur in the body.

The constituent components of the nut are some toxic and hallucinogenic substances that, at high concentrations, can cause a euphoric feeling, hallucinogenic types and narcotic convulsions.

You can eat no more than three nutmegs per day, otherwise it can lead to coma or death.

Toxic miracistin is able to penetrate the placental barrier, causing harm to the fetus.

Also, nutmeg pods are contraindicated:

patients suffering from allergic reactions;
for epileptic seizures and severe mental disorders;
during lactation and for young children.

Due to the fact that nutmeg powder is recognized by doctors as a natural herbal antibiotic, you should not combine nutmeg intake with alcohol and certain medications.

Medicinal recipes using nutmeg

In addition to the fact that nutmeg powder is used in the food industry and serves as a spicy spice for many dishes, some of it is used in folk medicine to treat many ailments.

For intestinal disorders and diarrhea, it is recommended to take nutmeg powder on the tip of a spoon, mix it with a spoonful of ghee and take the resulting mixture throughout the day before each meal.
In the absence of appetite and in order to get rid of excess gas formation in the intestines, doctors suggest making an unusual mixture of half a glass of liquid yogurt, half a glass of drinking water, adding a pinch of nutmeg and ground ginger.
Warm cow's milk mixed with a small amount of nutmeg spice can help calm the nervous system as a sedative, as well as for babies during teething.
To treat rheumatoid and gouty arthritis, osteochondrosis, doctors prescribe applying a special paste of nutmeg and vegetable oil to the sore spot.
You can get rid of acne by applying a mask of honey, nutmeg powder and nutmeg to your face, the ingredients are taken in equal proportions.

Men with problems in intimate life are prescribed regular use of nutmeg seasoning as an additional spice to food.

To strengthen hair follicles.

Selection and proper storage

After preliminary drying, the nuts are laid out on special grates and subjected to heat treatment by fire for several weeks. In this case, it is necessary to turn them over regularly.

After complete drying, nutmeg acquires a brown tint, and its shell breaks easily.

The finished nut in its entirety looks like an elongated, egg-shaped nut with a pattern of light veins. In this case, one end of the nut should be light, and the opposite end should be dark brown.

If necessary, remove whole nut kernels and grate them or grind them in a blender.

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