13 health benefits of nutmeg!

Nutmeg is a popular spice used around the world for the flavor it imparts, but that’s just one side of the equation. This spice has also been used for thousands of years, mainly for its health benefits.

Well, what could she be? How can this ancient spice improve your life? Keep reading and you will get the answers! Well, nutmeg is a spice that is made from the seeds of the tree (scientifically called Myristica fragrans). It is native to Indonesia and has a hot, spicy flavor.

The most common ways of using nutmeg in the United States are in desserts (like apple pie), beverages (like mulled wine), and even as a garnish with certain coffee drinks. In fact, it goes really well with creamy and cheesy dishes.

Health benefits of nutmeg:

1. Helps prevent cancer:

Sources say that nutmeg essential oil can act as an antioxidant and prevent cancer in the process. It achieves this by slowing the formation of certain blood vessels that feed tumors. Other studies have also shown how the oil can prevent colon cancer .

Another study shows how a spice blend containing it can potentially fight cancer . Including it in your daily diet can have therapeutic effects against cancer .

2. It can help diabetes treatment:

Nutmeg  is a rich source of triterpenes, compounds that have antidiabetic properties . Studies show how the oil can alleviate symptoms associated with chronic diseases, diabetes being one of them.

3. Relieves Arthritis Pain:

The spice has also been shown to relieve chronic inflammatory pain, which is the primary feature of arthritis . The anti-inflammatory properties of nutmeg  can reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with arthritis .

4. Treats insomnia:

In smaller doses, nutmeg  can have a calming effect that can induce sleep and treat insomnia . The spice was also used in ancient medicine as a way to de-stress and calm the mind.

Adding a pinch of this seed to a glass of warm milk and drinking it before bed can help you sleep better. The mild sedative actions of this nut have been recorded in studies, which prove its ability to treat insomnia .

5. Improves digestion:

Nutmeg essential oils have a carminative effect – meaning they help reduce flatulence. Issues like diarrhea , constipation, gas and even bloating can be alleviated by consuming it.

Walnut also promotes the secretion of digestive enzymes, further aiding digestion. It also contains fiber, which can help with bowel movement.

6. Relieves pain:

Nutmeg is often used to treat spasms and pain. In fact, its extract is applied to relieve pain – especially in muscles and joints.

In addition, it also contains methanol which has pain relieving properties. That’s why including this spice in your diet can reduce pain associated with injuries and strains.

There are other volatile oils in the walnut, such as elemicin, eugenol, and safrole — all of which have anti-inflammatory properties and help relieve pain associated with inflammation.

7. It can lower cholesterol levels:

While there is less information on this, some sources speak of manganese levels. Additionally, the mineral works as a catalyst for cholesterol breakdown , and this can help lower cholesterol levels .

8. Improves oral health:

Nutmeg is a powerhouse of antibacterial properties, which is how it contributes to oral health. The spice is known to treat dental problems such as cavities, toothache, and even tooth decay in some cases. The antibacterial properties can also eliminate bad breath .

9. Helps in weight loss:

The only known way nutmeg can help with weight loss is through its soporific (sleep-inducing) properties. Consuming it with your dinner can make you fall asleep faster, keeping you away from binging. And the fiber in the spice can also contribute to weight loss .

10. Treats Anxiety:

Nutmeg contains trimyristin , which studies have shown to cause anxiogenic (anxiety-reducing) responses. In addition, it also works as an antidepressant and can help treat depression .

The spice is basically a brain tonic that stimulates your brain. It even helps eliminate mental fatigue and stress and increases mental activity. All of this can be attributed to the ability to trigger neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin , which affect your mood.

11. Treat urinary incontinence:

Some reports suggest how this seed can treat urinary incontinence. But more research is needed. We recommend that you speak to your doctor before using nutmeg  in this regard.

12. Helps fight acne:

Nutmeg exhibits strong antibacterial and antifungal activities – and this can help treat acne. And then there’s the spice’s anti-inflammatory activity, which can heal inflammation and redness associated with acne .

You can prepare an acne mask by mixing a teaspoon of this walnut and honey (for its additional antibacterial properties). Apply the mixture gently on your face. Leave for 30 minutes and wash off with cold water .

13. It can help treat eczema:

While it is not scientifically proven to work, several individuals vouch for this method. You can combine a tablespoon with a teaspoon of olive oil.

Mix well to form a thick paste and apply it to the affected areas. Leave for about 20 minutes, after which you can wash off the cream with cold water . Thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of nutmeg , once again it can be used as a potential treatment for eczema.

Nutmeg side effects:

Prolonged use of nutmeg  in doses greater than 120 mg per day can lead to hallucinations and other mental problems such as dizziness and agitation. It can also lead to a high, often called a ‘ high nutmeg ‘.

Excessive consumption can cause miscarriages or birth defects. Talking about breastfeeding, little is known. So avoid this node in both instances. In rare cases, over-consumption can even lead to death .

Conclusion:

A popular spice used around the world, nutmeg certainly has its share of benefits. And you’ve seen what they are. So why don’t you start including nutmeg in your diet right away?