(Myristica fragrans)
Description
As early as the seventh century, Arabs used nutmeg for digestive disorders, kidney problems, and lymphatic ailments. Today it is used principally as a spice in cooking and as a treatment for diarrhoea, insomnia, indigestion, and flatulence.
It relaxes muscles, sedates the body, and helps remove gas from the digestive tract. Early reports described hallucinogenic reactions to ingesting whole seeds, but these have not been substantiated.
Nutmeg is native to a province of Indonesia once known as the Spice Islands, where it is still used as a culinary seasoning and medicinal herb. It comes from an evergreen tree that produces a fruit called the nutmeg apple. Nutmeg comes from the nut, which is removed and dried.
How It May Benefit You
- diarrhoea,
- indigestion,
- loss of appetite,
- colic,
- flatulence,
- insomnia.
Caution
Beware, nutmeg has narcotic properties.
WARNING: Herbs should only be used under the supervision of an experienced herbalist or naturopath experienced in herbs.
Availability
Nutmeg is available as a powder and tincture.
