Nutmeg is an Asian spice that grows on a plant scientifically referred to as Myristica fragrans. The plant possesses a hint of sweetness and gives off a pleasant aroma. Nutmeg has a number of health benefits, including relieving pain, aiding digestion, treating insomnia, improving oral health, treating cancer, detoxifying the body, and supporting kidney health. The other benefits of nutmeg include promoting blood circulation, reducing inflammation, supporting immunity, and treating acne.
Relieves Pain
Nutmeg is made up of several essential oils such as eugenol, myristicin, safrole, and elemicin. The oils possess anti-inflammatory properties that to help in treating muscle and joints pain. To treat inflammation, sores, muscle pain and joint pain, you only need a few drops of the essential oil applied to the affected area.
Aids Digestion
The essential oils in nutmeg have a carminative effect on the body. So for those who suffer from digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating, or constipation, include a pinch of nutmeg in stews and soups. It will aid the secretion of digestive enzymes, give some relief, and facilitate bowel movement.
Helps Treat Insomnia
Nutmeg is known to have a soothing effect when taken in smaller doses. It induces sleep and has de-stressing effects. You only need to add a pinch of nutmeg to a cup of warm milk before retiring for the night.
Treats Bad Breath
One of the possible signs of toxicity in the body is bad breath. In fact, an unhealthy lifestyle and imbalanced diet can increase toxins in the organs of the body. Thankfully, nutmeg is believed to be helpful in detoxifying the body and remove the toxins from the kidney and liver. Since nutmeg’s essential oils are made up of anti-bacterial properties, it eliminates bacteria that can cause bad breath from the mouth. It relieves toothache and is used as a component for Ayurvedic kinds of toothpaste.
Improves Brain Health
Did you know that nutmeg is an aphrodisiac that stimulates the nerves in the brain? It also effective for treating anxiety and depression as its essential oil is capable of alleviating stress and fatigue. Since it is an adaptogen, nutmeg can act as both a sedative and stimulant. When stressed, nutmeg helps in lowering blood pressure and can improve your mood.
Regulates Blood Pressure and Circulation
Nutmeg is rich in mineral, making it a perfect ingredient for controlling blood pressure and pressure. The iron, calcium, manganese, and potassium in nutmeg are also essential for certain functions in the body. They reduce stress by relaxing the blood vessels and keeping the heart functioning properly. A proper circulation of blood through the heart and brain is vital for your overall health. Also, nutmeg is commonly used in herbal medicine for regulating high blood pressure.
Improves Skin Appearance
Nutmeg is a great for skincare because of its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties as well as its effectiveness in treating acne, opening clogged pores, and removing blackheads. You only need to mix equal parts of honey and ground nutmeg into a paste and apply it on the affected. Leave it on for 20 minutes, and then wash off with cold water. Additionally, you can make a paste of ground nutmeg and a few drops of milk and gently massage it into your skin before washing off with water. It can also be used in scrubs along with orange peel, oatmeal, etc.
Boosts the Immune System
A strong immune system wards off many unwanted health issues, including destroying free radicals, bacteria, and cancerous cells. What your immune system does is to use nutrients like iron, manganese, potassium, and other vitamins contained in nutmeg.
Maintains Kidney Health
It is essential to maintain kidney health and nutmeg is one diuretic in that can promote proper elimination of urine and keep the kidneys healthy. Also, several studies have indicated that including nutmeg in your diet or consuming as much as a pinch of it can help in dissolving kidney stones. However, you should consult your doctor and avoid self-medication in case of serious kidney condition.
Acts as a Detoxifier
Did you know that toxins, excess salts, chemicals, toxins, etc. can destroy liver cell? Of course, with damaged cells, the liver is more likely to be affected by serious liver diseases. This is one reason why detoxification of the liver is recommended. By incorporating nutmeg in your diet, you can protect the liver against the negative effects of stress, environmental pollution, medication, and unbalanced diet.
Alleviates the Risks of Psychological Diseases
Alzheimer’s and dementia are psychological diseases that are common with old age; they are conditions where sufferers frequently forget things and find it hard to recall. Aging is also known to affect cognitive function and concentration. One of the precautions to take in young age to avoid these age-related problems is to incorporate nutmeg into daily lifestyle. Components like macelignan contained in nutmeg are believed to improve memory by sharpening the brain. Nutmeg has the potential to alleviate risks linked to psychological diseases and prevent their occurrence in old age.
Treats Cancer
Having established that antioxidants can destroy free radicals that encourage cancerous cells in the body, it then means that nutmeg is essential for making this happen. Studies have shown that the antioxidants in nutmeg can help reduce the risks of cancerous cells. However, these studies are at their initial levels, and additional evidence is required to be sure of the positive effects of nutmeg in cancer treatment.
Precautions and Side Effects
In recent years, nutmeg has come under some suspicion, especially since the increase in the reported cases of accidental poisoning. Consuming nutmeg in excess can have hallucinatory, narcotic, or psychotropic effects on the body and so many people have tried to recreationally duplicate these effects. Sadly, consuming nutmeg in huge amounts can compromise the body’s processes, as it is potent and should be used only in small amounts. Consuming excess of it can lead to heart palpitations, vomiting, and seizures.
Bottom Line
Nutmeg possesses many health benefits which is why it has been a part of herbal medication for so many years. Therefore, incorporating the spice in your diet can enhance overall health. When used appropriately and in the right quantities, the benefits are evident. So keep the amount you consume under control, and get your thrills from somewhere else!
