Benefits Of Nutmeg According To Science
Nutmeg is a spice native to Indonesia, which has medicinal properties for the body. It is frequently used in gastronomy, as it enhances the flavor of many preparations. Although many prefer to grate it over meals, there are those who like to enjoy it in infusions.
Among other things, this ingredient provides vitamins A, B and C. It also contains minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, iron and potassium. In this way, it is a fairly nutritious food, beyond the healthy properties that we will present below.
Hepatoprotection
Nutmeg has the property of fighting hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, damage to heart tissue and hepatotoxicity. Despite the fact that most of the studies confirming these facts are carried out in mice, an efficient protection against liver damage is observed.
In addition, due to the presence of monoterpenes inside, it is also protective against heart disease. These compounds have anticoagulant properties and protect against problems such as thrombosis.
Helps alleviate the symptoms of gout
Due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps to relieve joint swelling and to combat the pain of chronic inflammation. Studies related to this fact are carried out in mice and studies that contrast this effect in humans are lacking.
However, its anti-inflammatory properties are proven, according to a study published in Food & Nutrition Research. Therefore, the results can be partially extrapolated.
Can be used as an exfoliator
Combining nutmeg powder with honey results in a beneficial product for treating certain skin conditions. In this way, the result can be applied as a natural exfoliator that removes dead cells and fat accumulation.
On the other hand, masks can be made with this product to combat acne. Its antiseptic and regenerative effects make it an ideal spice for this type of function.
Nutmeg can be toxic in high doses
Consuming this spice in excess (one to three nuts) has been shown to cause adverse side effects. The volatile oils it contains, made up of derivatives of alkylbenzene, terpenes and myristic acid can cause nausea, hallucinations, inflammation and shock . Therefore, it is important to consume this food in moderation.
It can, in some cases, cause relaxing sensations similar to those of cannabis. However, the most common overdose is dehydration and general pain. The effects last more than 24 hours, and can even exceed 36.
It is not entirely clear which of the compounds is the one with the highest toxicological activity. It is believed that myristicin can be oxidized to a more water-soluble amphetamine metabolite.
In what forms can it be found?
In the market, nutmeg is available whole to be grated, in powder and in the form of essential oils. The latter are obtained from the distillation of ground walnuts and are used mainly in the pharmaceutical and perfume industries.
It contains compounds of interest to the oleochemical industry and is used as a flavoring agent. Another use of the oil is to treat rheumatic pain, and it can also be used as an emergency method to treat toothaches.
On the other hand there is also the nutmeg butter. In this case it is a semi-solid and brown substance. 75% of it is trimyristin, which can be converted to myristic acid. This fatty acid is used as a substitute for cocoa butter and has applications as an industrial lubricant.
Nutmeg, a beneficial food
Nutmeg is a product that has a clear utility in gastronomy. But in addition to its organoleptic potential, it has certain properties that can be beneficial to health.
Although there is a lack of studies in humans that fully demonstrate them, their use in a moderate way can be positive for the improvement of certain pathologies or situations. However, this spice also does not offer miracle solutions and does offer dangerous potential due to the possibility of overdose.
For this fact, it is recommended to use it in moderation, not to exceed the recommended daily amounts and, if you do, go to the doctor quickly to prevent major problems.
