As we’ve mentioned, nutmeg is more commonly known for its flavour. However, nutmeg contains a range of powerful compounds that can have an influence on your overall health.
Think we’re nutmegging you? Read on and we’ll provide you with 8 health nutmeg benefits:
Health benefits of nutmeg
Includes powerful antioxidants and microbials
They may be little, but nutmeg seeds are a rich source of plant compounds that act as antioxidants in your body. There has been much research into organic antioxidants and antimicrobials from dietary plants as they can safeguard the human body against the oxidative damage of biological macromolecules.
Nutmeg has been listed as one of those plants to contain antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Antioxidants are properties that protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals in the body. Free radicals are atoms with an uneven number of electrons that can damage cells, which can be counteracted by antioxidants.
Spice up your sex life! So, as we touched upon in the brief history lesson – nutmeg was not only sold for its health benefits, but it was also sold as an aphrodisiac.
In fact, Hindus believed that a pinch of nutmeg could improve sexual desire and performance. While there is no specific human evidence of this, it is widely considered that a bit of spice from nutmeg can improve male libido.
How does nutmeg help your skin?
As you’ll now know, research into nutmeg shows it to be a powerful anti-microbial, antioxidant, antiseptic, and an anti-bacterial agent capable of reducing free radical damage including in skin cells.
When mixed into a cream, nutmeg reduces inflammation and irritation of the skin while promoting hydration.
Side effects of nutmeg:
When consumed in small doses, the humble nutmeg is unlikely to cause harm to your body. However, large doses could have an adverse effects.
Nutmeg contains two properties called myristicin and safrole, which when ingested in large quantities can cause you to hallucinate and lose muscle coordination.
Myristicin, the main component of nutmeg essential oil is thought to be the drive behind these effects.
How much nutmeg is safe per day?
While there are no specific guidelines on how much nutmeg you should have per day, its recommended that you should not exceed 1 to 2mg a day. Studies suggest that toxic reactions occur when taken at 5g and above.
Is nutmeg safe?
Nutmeg is safe when using it in doses as you’d expect to use in the kitchen. However, when taken in large doses, nutmeg can cause:
1. Rapid heartbeat
2. Feelings of sickness and vomiting
3. Confusion Agitation
We would recommend that you use nutmeg for cooking and not for other recreational use.
