Cautions
Nutmeg in large amounts may cause dizziness, stomach pains, rapid pulse, nausea, anxiety, liver pain, double vision and coma.
General Description
Nutmeg is the seed of Myristica fragrans, an evergreen tree native to the Molucca Islands. Interestingly, the tree produces both Nutmeg and Mace, and grows up to 60' tall. Although the tree takes seven years to bear fruit, it may produce until the 90th year. Both spices come from the trees fruit, which splits into a scarlet outer membrane, mace and an inner brown seed, nutmeg.
Geographical Sources
Nutmeg is grown in Indonesia and Grenada.
Traditional Ethnic Uses
Nutmeg is a mild baking spice and is used in sausage, meats, soups and preserves. Nutmeg is commonly added to eggnog, puddings and fruit pies. It is popular in the Netherlands and Italy, where it is used in vegetables, puddings and stews.
Taste and Aroma
Nutmeg is more pungent and sweeter than mace.
History/Region of Origin
The Roman philosopher Pliny wrote about Nutmeg and mace in the 1st century. Indian Vedic literature recommended Nutmeg for bad breathe, headaches and fever. Arabian writing mentions its uses as an aphrodisiac and stomach medicine. Middle Eastern traders brought Nutmeg and mace to southern Europe in the 6th century, and they were well known by the 12th century from Italy to Denmark. The Portuguese found Nutmeg trees in the Molucca Islands, and dominated the Nutmeg and mace trade until the Dutch overcame it in 1602. Unaware that the spices came from the same tree, one Dutch official ordered the Moluccan Islanders to plant more mace trees, and fewer Nutmeg trees. Nutmeg production spread to the West Indies, Trinidad and Grenada under the British in the 1800's.
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.
