11 Benefits Of Nutmeg, Side Effects, And Nutritional Profile

Enjoy the goodness of this nutrient-dense spice with medicinal properties.

Medically reviewed by Kelly McKenzie, Registered Clinical Nutritionist
Written by Ravi Teja Tadimalla, BSc, Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition and Health
Edited by Arshiya Syeda, BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma
Fact-checked by Sindhu Koganti, BTech (Biotechnology), Certified Health & Nutrition Life Coach  • 

Nutmeg is a spice known for its unique woody and sweet flavor. It is used in various cuisines worldwide. Nutmeg’s benefits are numerous, and they can be attributed to its rich nutritional content. This spice is loaded with minerals, vitamins, and secondary metabolites. In addition, it has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and psychoactive properties (1).

Nutmeg effectively manages the wellness of your body as it regulates blood sugar levels, combats high blood pressure, and lowers cholesterol. These positive effects can be attributed to the bioactive compounds in it. It also relieves stress and anxiety with its psychotropic property. In this article, you will learn all about nutmeg, the benefits it offers, its nutritional profile, and the side effects associated with consumption. Keep reading!

protip_icon Know Your Ingredient: Nutmeg

What Is It?
Nutmeg is a spice famous for its unique woody and sweet flavor derived from a tree of the species of the genus Myristica fragrans.

What Are Its Benefits?
It may help in fighting arthritis pain and inflammation, treating insomnia, anxiety, and depression, and managing diabetes and blood pressure.

Who Can Use It?
Anyone except pregnant and breastfeeding women and those who are taking sedatives can consume it in small amounts or topically apply a paste to treat acne.

How Often?
You can consume it daily but in moderation.

Caution
Overconsumption of nutmeg may cause symptoms like hallucinations, dry mouth, dizziness, and nausea.

What Is Nutmeg?

Nutmeg is a nutrient-dense, aromatic spice that is made from the seeds of the nutmeg tree (scientifically called Myristica fragrans). It is native to Indonesia (1). It has a warm and spicy flavor, which is why it is popularly used in cooking, baking desserts (like apple pie), beverages (like mulled wine), and as a garnish on certain coffee drinks. It goes quite well with creamy and cheesy dishes.

protip_icon Trivia
In the 1600s, the Dutch kept nutmeg a trade secret and plotted to keep the French and English from obtaining nutmeg seeds.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Nutmeg?

1. May Help Reduce Cancer Risk

Sources state that the essential oil of nutmeg can act as an antioxidant and may assist in preventing cancer in the process. The oil has powerful free radical scavenging activity and can be used to develop anti-cancer drugs.

Other studies have shown that nutmeg may aid the prevention of colon cancer by decreasing intestinal tumorigenesisi  XA complex process of the formation of cancer cells from normal cells in 3 stages: Initiation, progression, and metastasis. (2), (3).

2. May Aid Diabetes Treatment

Nutmeg helps in diabetes treatment
Image: Shutterstock

Nutmeg is a rich source of antioxidants. In rat studies, nutmeg, along with other spices, was found to decrease blood glucose levels significantly. The extracts of nutmeg were found to have beneficial effects on blood glucose levels.

However, more studies are needed to project nutmeg as a potential treatment for diabetes (4). Studies also show that oil may relieve symptoms of chronic inflammatory pain, which could be a serious concern for people with diabetes (5).

3. May Control High Blood Pressure

Studies on nutmeg have shown that it contains several essential oils, such as linalool. Linalool is a strong vasodilator of smooth muscles, including blood vessels, and can help in lowering high blood pressure.

Animal studies confirm the linalool’s ability to reduce overall blood pressure (6). These effects need further experimental validation on humans.

4. May Relieve Arthritis Pain And Inflammation

Nutmeg relieves rrthritis pain
Image: Shutterstock

Nutmeg has shown to ease chronic inflammatory pain, which is the primary characteristic of arthritis. The anti-inflammatory properties of nutmeg can reduce joint pains and inflammation associated with arthritis (5).

The seed contains high quantities of myristicin, elemicin, and eugenol, which could be the reason for its anti-inflammatory properties (7).

5. May Treat Insomnia

Nutmeg may also help with stress relief, and this may aid insomnia treatment (8). This seed contains myristicin and elemicin. These prominent compounds in nutmeg work together to relax the human brain. The seed itself also can act as a mild sedative.

A product containing nutmeg as one of the primary ingredients was found to improve mood and help treat insomnia (1). The spice was also used in ancient medicine as a way to de-stress and calm one’s mind.

Tim Birchard, a blogger, shares his experience of experiencing side effects due to nutmeg before figuring out the correct dosage to use as a sleeping aid. He writes, “Woke up about 5:30 to pounding heart, disorientation, dizziness, nausea, and a host of other side effects (i).” After a lot of trial and error, he figured out the right dosage for good sleep. He continues, “For the past year I have (very carefully) experimented with taking 1/4 teaspoon (tsp) of ground nutmeg with water before bed. I have had consistently favorable results. No negative side effects, and improved sleep without added drowsiness the next morning.”

6. May Improve Digestion

Nutmeg improves digestion
Image: Shutterstock

According to some studies, the essential oils in nutmeg have a carminative effect, which may assist in reducing flatulence. Nutmeg can relieve issues like diarrhea (9). It also contains fiber, which may help with bowel movements (9).

7. May Ease Pain

Nutmeg oil is often used to treat spasms and pain. It is topically applied for pain relief, particularly in the muscles and joints. Another volatile oil in nutmeg, eugenol, has anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate pain associated with inflammation (5).

8. May Lower Cholesterol Levels

According to a rat study, nutmeg possesses cholesterol-lowering potential and protective ability (10). The study also suggests that nutmeg extracts could help reverse liver toxicity caused by high cholesterol diets.

9. May Improve Dental Health

Nutmeg is a powerhouse of antibacterial properties that potentially contribute to oral health. The spice is known to treat dental issues, including dental caries. It fights pathogens like Streptococcus mutans that can cause oral infections (3).

10. May Treat Depression And Anxiety

Rat studies showed that nutmeg might also work as an antidepressant, potentially assisting in reducing symptoms of depression by boosting serotonin (11). However, it is important to note that nutmeg does not replace medical treatment that may include medications, therapy, or both.

The spice is basically a brain tonic that stimulates your brain function. It also helps eliminate mental fatigue and stress and boosts mental activity (12). In addition, 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.

protip_icon Trivia
Nutmeg was used by Ancient Greeks and Romans as a brain tonic to treat anxiety and depression.

11. May Help Fight Acne

Nutmeg helps reduce acne
Image: Shutterstock

Nutmeg exhibits strong antibacterial and antifungal activities – and this may help in reducing acne. Nutmeg has been used externally to treat skin infections, rheumatism, and paralysis (1).

The spice has traditionally been used as a skin whitening agent, and a patent is underway that uses the extract of nutmeg in its chemical formulas (13). The lignan found in nutmeg evens the pigmentation in the skin by inhibiting melanin production.

Additionally, nutmeg also helps improve immunity, respiratory health, and hair health, and aids in weight loss.

These are the benefits of nutmeg. Below is a detailed nutritional profile of nutmeg.

What Is The Nutritional Profile Of Nutmeg?

PrincipleNutrient ValuePercentage of RDA
Energy525 Kcal26
Carbohydrates49.29 g38%
Protein5.84 g10%
Total Fat36.31 g180%
Cholesterol0 mg0%
Dietary Fiber20.8 g55%
Vitamins
Folates76 µg19%
Niacin1.299 mg8%
Pyridoxine0.160 mg12%
Riboflavin0.057 mg4%
Thiamin0.346 mg29%
Vitamin-A102 IU3.5%
Vitamin C3 mg5%
Electrolytes
Sodium16 mg1%
Potassium350 mg7.5%
Minerals
Calcium184 mg18%
Copper1.027 mg114%
Iron3.04 mg38%
Magnesium183 mg46%
Manganese2.900 mg126%
Phosphorus213 mg30%
Zinc2.15 mg20%
Phyto-nutrients
Carotene-ß16 µg
Crypto-xanthin-ß90 µg
Lutein-zeaxanthin0 µg

*values sourced from Scientia Agriculturae

Nutmeg can be consumed in various forms to enhance the flavor of food. Learn more about them in the next section.

How To Use Nutmeg

  • Ground Nutmeg: This is the most common form of nutmeg and is readily available. It is a popular addition in many recipes and imparts a warm, slightly sweet flavor.
  • Whole Nutmeg Seeds: Grate these seeds with a fine grater as needed for a fresh, intense flavor. It enhances the aroma and flavor of your dishes.
  • Nutmeg Oil: This concentrated oil, extracted from the seeds, is used in the food industry to flavor various products like syrups, sauces, and baked goods.
  • Nutmeg Butter: Nutmeg powder is mixed with cooking butter to create a flavorful butter that can be used as a spread or for cooking.

Nutmeg can be consumed in numerous forms. But this does not mean you can consume as much of it as you want.

How Much Nutmeg Is Safe Per Day?

Prolonged use of nutmeg, in doses of more than two spoons per day (15 g), may cause hallucinations, dizziness, acute nausea, dry mouth, and agitation. Cases of overdose have been reported in the literature (14), (15).

Here are the side effects of nutmeg.

What Are The Side Effects Of Nutmeg?

  • Hallucinations And Other Mental Side Effects

Chronic consumption of nutmeg is associated with tachycardiai  XA medical term for heart rate above 100 beats a minute. It can be risky depending on age and level of exertion. , nauseai  XAn uneasy and uncomfortable feeling in the stomach that causes an urge to vomit but does not lead to vomiting. , vomiting, agitation, and hallucinations (14). This toxicity has been attributed to the myristicin oil present in nutmeg. Studies have suggested keeping the spice out of children’s reach due to safety concerns.

  • Issues During Pregnancy And Breastfeeding
Nutmeg may cause issues during pregnancy
Image: Shutterstock

Excess consumption of nutmeg can cause miscarriages or birth defects (16). There are no studies reporting the effects of nutmeg consumption on breastfeeding. Hence, avoid nutmeg in both instances.

In rare cases, excess consumption of nutmeg can lead to death.

Nutmeg can be enjoyed in versatile ways.

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 oral routines in the following ways.

  • How To Prepare Nutmeg Tea

Add nutmeg powder (less than 3 g) to boiling water along with a piece of ginger. Allow it to steep for 2 to 3 minutes. Strain and sip on the tea.

You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to a glass of warm milk and drink it before bedtime to aid better sleep.

  • How To Use Nutmeg To Treat Acne

Using it for treating acne is simple. You need to crush two to three nutmeg seeds and add a little milk to make a paste. Wash your face with warm water and then apply it to your face. Leave it on for a couple of hours before washing your face with cool water.

  • How To Use Nutmeg For Oral Health

You can brush your teeth with a mixture of a little nutmeg powder and a small amount of oregano oil. Repeat this several times per week.

Infographic: Health Benefits Of Nutmeg

Nutmeg’s antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties are well known. The spice has been used for ages in Ayurveda and other traditional forms of medicine for its many benefits. While further scientific evidence is required to understand its efficacy in treating various conditions, its soothing properties have made it popular. In the infographic below, we have summarized the potential health benefits of nutmeg. Check them out.

health benefits of nutmeg (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The diverse nutritional profile of nutmeg comprises many bioactive compounds, vitamins, and minerals. These help lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation. Nutmeg may help promote gut, oral, and skin health. It can also reduce stress and anxiety and enhance sleep. Nevertheless, it may cause hallucinations in a few individuals. Hence, caution is advised. Since the safety standards have not been determined, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before consuming nutmeg.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good substitute for nutmeg?

Mace is the closest substitute for nutmeg. Mace is nothing but the outer membrane of the nutmeg seed before it is harvested, which is why it has a similar flavor.

How long does nutmeg high last?

It can also lead to a high, often called ‘nutmeg high.’ Nutmeg high has been reported to last for two days with symptoms similar to that of a hangover. Caution should be taken when operating heavy machinery or other activities like driving while under the influence of nutmeg because of its psychoactivei  XSubstances that change the function of the nervous system and alter perception, mood, and behavior. nature.

Can you smoke nutmeg?

Yes, but you shouldn’t do it as smoking nutmeg is dangerous.

Is nutmeg good for your kidneys?

No, animal studies suggest that excessive intake of nutmeg can prove to be detrimental to your kidneys. It can have a toxic effect and even impede metabolic functions. However, further studies are warranted to understand this link further (17).

Does nutmeg detoxify the body?

Yes, nutmeg helps flush out toxins from the liver and kidneys, thus naturally detoxifying the body (18).

Is nutmeg good for your heart?

Yes, nutmeg may increase blood circulation and improve the overall functioning of the heart (19)

Can nutmeg damage your liver?

Animal studies suggest that nutmeg may damage the liver and negatively impact liver function (20). However, clinical trials need to be conducted to understand the association further.

Does nutmeg help with stroke?

Research suggests that nutmeg essential may help reduce blood pressure levels which can reduce the risk of getting a stroke (21), (22).

Key Takeaways

  • Nutmeg helps lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation.
  • It also reduces stress and anxiety and improves sleep.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take nutmeg without a doctor’s advice.
  • Taking more than two spoonfuls of nutmeg per day can cause hallucinations, nausea, and vomiting.
benefits of nutmeg

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Chemical diversity and pharmacological significance of the secondary metabolites of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.), Phytochemistry Reviews, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5222521/
  2. Modulation of colon cancer by nutmeg, Journal of Proteome Research, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25712450
  3. Anticariogenic activity of macelignan isolated from Myristica fragrans (nutmeg) against Streptococcus mutans. Phytomedicine, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16492529
  4. A Comparative Study of the Anti Diabetic Effect of Oral Administration of Cinnamon, Nutmeg and Peppermint in Wistar Albino Rats, International Journal of Health Sciences and Research, CiteSeerX, The Pennsylvania State University.
    https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.656.2710&rep=rep1&type=pdf
  5. Nutmeg oil alleviates chronic inflammatory pain through inhibition of COX-2 expression and substance P release in vivo, Food & Nutrition Research, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4848392/
  6. Cardiovascular effects induced by linalool in normotensive and hypertensive rats. Zeitschrift für Naturforschung. C, Journal of Biosciences, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23923614
  7. A Review on Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Phenylpropanoids Found in Essential Oils, Molecules, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6270723/
  8. Phytochemistry and pharmacologic properties of Myristica fragrans Hoyutt.: A review, African Journal of Biotechnology, ResearchGate.
    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/235672070_Phytochemistry_and_pharmacologic_properties_of_Myristica_fragrans_Hoyutt_A_review
  9. Health and nutritional benefits of nutmeg (Mystica fragrans houtt.), Scientia Agriculturae.
    https://pscipub.com/Journals/Data/JList/Scientia%20Agriculturae/2013/Volume%201/Issue%202/2.pdf
  10. African Nutmeg (Monodora Myristica) Lowers Cholesterol and Modulates Lipid Peroxidation in Experimentally Induced Hypercholesterolemic Male Wistar Rats, International Journal of Biomedical Science, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4502738/
  11. Evaluation of the anti–depressant activity of Myristica fragrans (Nutmeg) in male rats, Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4075663/
  12. Antidepressant-like activity of n-hexane extract of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) seeds in mice, Journal of Medicinal Food. US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16579733
  13. Use of lignan-type compounds or extract of nutmeg or aril of nutmeg comprising the same, Patent No. US8969408B2, Google Patents.
    https://patents.google.com/patent/US8969408B2/en
  14. Nutmeg Poisonings: A Retrospective Review of 10 Years Experience from the Illinois Poison Center, 2001–2011, Journal of Medical Toxicology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4057546/?report=classic
  15. Nutmeg (myristicin) poisoning-report on a fatal case and a series of cases recorded by a poison information center. Forensic Science International, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11343860
  16. Nutmeg intoxication in pregnancy. A case report, The Journal of Reproductive Medicine, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3560064
  17. Histological effects of oral administration of nutmeg on the kidneys of adult Wister rats, North American Journal of Medical Sciences, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3354408/
  18. Health and nutritional benefits of nutmeg (mystica fragrans houtt), Scientia Agriculturae, PsciIpub.
    https://www.mchemist.com/herboglo/pdf/7%20nutmeg.pdf
  19. Systematic exploration of the potential material basis and molecular mechanism of the Mongolian medicine Nutmeg-5 in improving cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction, ScienceDirect
    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874121010771
  20. Hepatotoxicity of nutmeg: A pilot study based on metabolomics, ScienceDirect
    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332220309732#:~:text=Nutmeg%20exposure%20may%20cause%20dose%2D%20and%20duration%2Ddependent%20liver%20damage.&text=Inflammatory%20cell%20infiltration%20and%20hepatocyte,dose%2D%20and%20duration%2Drelated.&text=Elevated%20serum%20AST%20and%20ALT,nutmeg%20dose%20and%20exposure%20duration
  21. Effect of nutmeg and lavender on blood pressure in the elderly with hypertension, Palarch’s Journal of Archeology of Egypt/ Egyptology
    https://www.archives.palarch.nl/index.php/jae/article/view/2570#:~:text=This%20can%20also%20be%20seen,pressure%20in%20elderly%20with%20hypertension
  22. Blood Pressure and Stroke, AHA Journal
    https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.str.0000126208.14181.dd
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