Caution
Mace in large quanties may cause dizziness, stomach pains, rapid pulse, nausea, anxiety, liver pain, double vision and coma.
General Description
The nutmeg tree, Myristica fragrans, is special in that it produces two separate spices, nutmeg and Mace. Mace is the ground outer covering (aril) of the nutmeg seed. A piece of ungrounded Mace is called a blade.
Geographical Sources
Indonesia and Grenada
Traditional Ethnic Uses
Mace is most popular in European foods where it is used in both savory and sweet dishes. It is the dominant flavor in doughnuts.
Taste and Aroma
Mace has a flavor and aroma similar to nutmeg, with slightly more pungency.
History/Region of Origin
Mace is indigenous to the Molucca Islands. There are both male and female trees and they are planted in a ratio of about 1 male tree to every 10 female trees. The Portuguese controlled the Mace trade until they were driven out by the Dutch in 1602. At one point the price of Mace was so high and nutmeg so low that one Dutch official, unaware that Mace and nutmeg came from the same tree, ordered growers to burn nutmeg trees to grow more Mace.
The herbal and health information provided in this Web Site is intended as historical information only. The historical uses are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Nothing listed within this Web Site should be considered medical advice for dealing with a given problem. You should consult your health care professional for individual guidance for specific health problems. Persons with serious medical conditions should always seek professional care.
