Nutmeg: 16 useful properties, composition, how to use?

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Nutmeg: 16 useful properties, composition, how to use?
Nutmeg: 16 useful properties, composition, how to use?
Anonim

Nutmeg: benefits and harms, how to use?

Nutmeg is a popular spice made from the seeds of Myristica Fragrans, a tropical evergreen tree native to Indonesia. It can be found as a whole seed, but is most commonly sold as a ground spice.

It has a warm, slightly nutty flavor and is often used in desserts and curries, as well as drinks such as mulled wine and tea.

Although more commonly used for its taste than its he alth benefits, nutmeg contains an impressive array of powerful compounds that can help prevent disease and improve your overall he alth.

What does nutmeg look like and how does it taste?

Nutmeg is an evergreen tree, first described in the Moluccas archipelago, which is called the Spice Islands. Muscat, unlike other exotic nuts, is a rather low tree. In height, it reaches 15-20 meters. The nutmeg crown is lush and pyramidal in shape.

In nutmeg, the light brown seed and the red mesh shell that covers it (aryllus) are valuable. Muscat is not consumed like the usual types of nuts. A spice is prepared from the seed - nutmeg, from aryllus - nutmeg or mace.

Nutmeg
Nutmeg

Taste. Nutmeg has a pungent, peppery flavor that develops gradually and leaves a sweet aftertaste. When it hits the mucous membrane of the tongue, a complex bouquet of flavors “crumbles” into spicy, earthy, warm notes. Muscat aroma cannot be confused with something else - sweet-spicy, with a nutty nuance, it is rich and warm. The maximum smell of spice is felt immediately after rubbing nutmeg on a fine grater.

Unlike nutmeg, mace has a more pronounced aroma and a less pronounced burning taste. It is found on sale much less frequently and is more expensive.

Where and how does nutmeg grow?

Where and how does nutmeg grow
Where and how does nutmeg grow

The ideal climate for growing nutmeg combines warmth and high humidity. The temperature should not fall below +20°C. The largest Muscat plantations are located in Brazil, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and India. The nutmeg tree lives for about 100 years. The maximum yield from each nut is obtained in the first 40 years of life.

Botanists describe several types of nutmeg. For a person, fragrant nutmeg, represented by two varieties, is of particular value:

  • West Indian - Pale yellowish nutty with exquisite taste.
  • East Indian - bright orange fruits with a rich spicy taste.

Nutmeg plantations produce up to three crops a year. After harvesting the fruits, complex processing begins, which takes place in several stages:

  • Removal of the outer amniotic membrane.
  • Separation of aryllus followed by drying, grinding to powder.
  • Drying whole nutmeg under the sun or in special dryers. The process takes several weeks.
  • Removing the outer shell.
  • Keep the peeled kernels in a solution of sea water and coral lime to eliminate pests, prevent germination.
  • Re-drying.
  • Crushing, cooking spices, vegetable or essential oils.

Benefits of nutmeg

The benefits of nutmeg
The benefits of nutmeg

Nutmeg is traditionally used in cooking as a spice. It is worth remembering that in Indonesian, Indian culture it has been included in traditional medicine recipes since ancient times. The centuries-old traditions of use are explained by the comprehensive effect of the active substances of the spice on the body:

  • Improves mnemic and cognitive processes.
  • Stimulates endorphin synthesis, improves mood, fights depression.
  • Reduces toothache, restores damaged gums.
  • Normalizes digestive functions, stimulates appetite.
  • Repairs damaged skin, muscle fibers.
  • Stimulates the functions of the liver, kidneys.
  • Improves blood quality.
  • Strengthens the cardiovascular system.

The introduction of nutmeg as part of the treatment of a disease should be discussed with a doctor in order to avoid the development of negative consequences.

Composition and calorie content

  • Fat: 36.3g
  • Proteins: 5.8 g
  • Carbs: 49.3g
  • Water: 6.2g
  • Ash: 2.34g
  • Fiber: 20.8g

Vitamins

Quantity

% RDA

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) 0, 35mg 23%
Vitamin B9 (folic acid) 76 mcg 19%
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) 0, 16mg 8%
Vitamin B3 (PP, nicotinic acid) 1, 30mg 7%
Vitamin A (retinol) 30 mcg 4%
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) 0.06mg 3%
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) 3mg 3%

Minerals (per 100g):

Quantity

%RDA

Manganese 2, 9mg 145%
Copper 1.03mg 103%
Magnesium 183 mg 46%
Phosphorus 213mg 27%
Calcium 184mg 18%
Zinc 2, 15mg 18%
Iron 3, 01mg 17%
Potassium 350mg 14%

Other important connections:

Phytosterols - 62 mg (112% RDA).

16 he alth benefits of nutmeg

16 useful properties
16 useful properties

1 Powerful Antioxidants

When talking about the valuable properties of nutmeg, we should start with its antioxidant qualities. The spice is rich in compounds that can protect cells from the damaging effects of free radicals.

Antioxidant substances have been discovered that can control free radical levels:

  • Cyanidine.
  • Phenylpropanoid.
  • Terpene.
  • Protocatechinic acid.
  • Caffeic acid.
  • Ferulic acid [1].

Nutmeg contains plant antioxidants, phenolic compounds, essential oils that protect cells from destruction and can prevent the development of chronic pathologies.

2 Anti-inflammatory properties

Chronic diseases of the heart, joints and endocrine disorders are accompanied by inflammatory processes. Nutmeg contains compounds - monoterpenes that suppress inflammatory reactions:

  • Sabinen.
  • Terpineol.
  • Pinene.

An experiment was conducted on rats to study the anti-inflammatory properties of nutmeg. At the first stage, the animals were injected with a drug that provoked an inflammatory reaction. Next, the experimental group of rats were given nutmeg oil. The control analysis showed that in this group, inflammatory markers decreased in animals, joint swelling and pain associated with inflammation disappeared [2], [3]

3 Antibacterial

Laboratory studies have shown that nutmeg has an antibacterial effect on pathogenic microflora:

  • Streptococcus mutans.
  • Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans.
  • Porphyromonas gingivalis.

The bacteria in question cause diseases of the gums, oral mucosa and dental caries. In the course of one of the studies, it was found that the active substances of nutmeg are able to suppress the spread of bacteria of the genus E. Coli, namely O157 - the cause of severe pathologies that can cause the death of a patient [4]

4 GI Benefits

Nutmeg is used in a therapeutic diet for stomach ulcers. In case of indigestion, spice is added to various dishes. Indians like to flavor their desserts with nutmeg to make them easier to digest. In addition, the spice helps to get rid of diarrhea. To do this, nutmeg powder is washed down with cold water several times during the day.

5 Treating insomnia

Another ancient recipe that makes falling asleep easier involves adding nutmeg powder to warm milk. This drink is recommended even for children. With its help, the nervous system calms down, drowsiness appears and he althy sleep sets in.

6 Pain relief

The use of nutmeg helps to soothe joint and muscle pain, relieve swelling. The composition of the nut includes natural painkillers - myristicin, elemicin, safrole and eugenol, which stop pain even with ulcerative lesions of internal organs.

7 Mood boost

Nerve cells are stimulated by natural chemicals that are similar to an aphrodisiac. They stimulate the synthesis of good mood hormones, have tonic properties, and help fight stress. Studies on small rodents have confirmed the pronounced antidepressant properties of nutmeg [5], [6]

8 Ensuring skin he alth

Nutmeg is the perfect beauty product that works. It restores elasticity, he althy skin color, cleanses pores from black spots. Works great in combination with honey. To prepare a nutmeg scrub, mix the spice with honey and apply on the face with light, massage movements. After washing, you will be impressed with the result.

9 Eliminate bad breath

Unhe althy breathing occurs due to the accumulation of toxins in the body. The antibacterial properties of nutmeg suppress the development of pathogenic flora, cleanse the circulatory and lymphatic systems. In addition, nutmeg contains eugenol, an essential oil that relieves toothache. Makelignan protects tooth enamel from caries and its unpleasant consequences.

10 Pressure normalization

Minerals, which are found in large quantities in nutmeg, stimulate blood circulation, regulate blood pressure, maintain the he alth of the vascular walls.

11 Hepatoprotective action

Chemical substances of nutmeg suppress inflammatory processes in hepatitis of various origins, promote the elimination of toxins. Muscat normalizes liver functions, protects hepatocytes from harmful substances.

12 Antitumor qualities

The unique chemical compound myristicin, which is found in nutmeg, suppresses malignant changes in cells. Muscat slows down the growth of malignant tumors, prevents metastasis.

13 Lower Cholesterol

The systematic use of nutmeg in food helps to normalize the lipid profile of the blood, reduce the level of total cholesterol and triglycerides. This is a good prevention of cardiovascular disease [7].

14 Improve hair growth

In addition to stimulating hair follicles, nutmeg fights dandruff and keeps the scalp he althy. Honey, coconut oil are added to nutmeg-based medical masks.

15 Weight Loss

Natural components of nutmeg help facilitate digestion, remove toxins from the body and normalize metabolism. Such a complex effect contributes to weight loss.

16 Blood glucose regulation

Preliminary studies in rats show that high doses of nutmeg extract help lower blood sugar levels, improve pancreatic function [8].

Official medicine has received confirmed data on the beneficial properties of nutmeg after experiments with animals. The knowledge of traditional medicine, which has been using the spice for medicinal purposes for many centuries, gives hope that laboratory studies involving people will soon be carried out and nutmeg will take its rightful place in the complex therapy of many diseases.

Dmitry Obgal – Nutmeg heals and pleases:

Benefits for men

Increases libido. Animal studies have shown that eating nutmeg activates sexual desire and improves performance. An experiment with rats was carried out with the introduction of high doses of nutmeg extract at the rate of 500 mg per 1 kg of body weight. The results showed that the males had increased sexual function and increased the period of sexual activity. No such effects were recorded in the control group [9]

Similar results were obtained in a similar study with male mice. Nutmeg extract also caused an increase in sexual desire in the animals in the experimental group [10].

In some countries of South Asia, the stimulating effect of nutmeg is used in official medicine recipes. In the Unani system of medicine, nutmeg is given the function of treating sexual problems. Mainstream medicine initiates human studies to study the effects of nutmeg on sexuality.

How to use nutmeg?

The rules for using nutmeg depend on the result you want to get. In cooking, dietetics and cosmetology, individual dosages of spices are determined.

Efimenka Natalya Yuryevna will tell you interesting facts and ways to use nutmeg:

Nutmeg with kefir

Nutmeg with kefir
Nutmeg with kefir

Separately, it should be said about the use of nutmeg with kefir. Such a cocktail promotes weight loss due to the complex effect on the digestive system:

  • Normalizes digestion in the stomach and intestines.
  • Suppresses hunger.
  • Regulates eating behavior.

Eating a drink for breakfast guarantees a quick awakening, maintaining tone and vigor throughout the day. Yogurt with nutmeg is ideal for a snack during the day, as well as for a late snack before bed. Persons using the drink already in the first days note lightness in the stomach, normalization of sleep, normalization of stool and weight loss.

To prepare a diet drink you will need:

  • A glass of kefir or yogurt with a fat content of 1-2%.
  • 1 tsp nutmeg.

According to taste preferences, you can add other ingredients - honey, cinnamon, mint, nuts, dried fruits. Muscat kefir goes well with fruit juices, cherries, apples, strawberries, peach. If there is a desire to use kefir cocktail as an unsweetened snack, paprika, avocado, s alt, tomato paste are added to it.

All ingredients for the preparation of nutmeg kefir cocktail are mixed in a blender for 30-40 seconds. Ready drink is desirable to use immediately, but can be stored in the refrigerator for 10-12 hours.

Nutmeg has been used in a number of ways to provide gentle yet consistent weight loss:

  • Sprinkle raw or baked fruit.
  • Add to lemon juice dressing for fruit salads.
  • Spice potato, carrot, pumpkin, cabbage dishes.
  • Add to vegetable salad dressings.
  • Sprinkle nutmeg on omelettes, scrambled eggs, pancakes, muffins.

Cooking nutmeg

Tarragon
Tarragon

Nutmeg is one of my favorite spices in the kitchen. It is used alone or as part of spice mixtures. Muscat goes well with cardamom, cinnamon, cloves. It is an exquisite ingredient in mulled wines, tonics, coffee and tea.

Cuisines around the world use nutmeg in all sorts of ways:

  • Added to vegetable dishes - soups, stews, mashed potatoes.
  • Spice up pasta, cereals, cabbage and spinach dishes.
  • Introduced into sweet creams, dough for cake layers, vanilla gingerbread, into mousses, puddings.
  • Added to cheese-based dishes.
  • Introduced into sauces.
  • Added to lattes, cappuccinos, milkshakes for added flavor.
  • For cooking pork and lamb dishes.
  • Included in fruit salads.

Nutmeg adds a sweet, warm nuance to foods and creates a whole new taste of s alty, sweet, entrees, side dishes and desserts.

Nutmeg in cosmetology

Nutmeg in cosmetology
Nutmeg in cosmetology

If we are talking about a cosmetic effect, then the spice is added to ready-made care products or prepared at home.

Mask is used to lighten the skin, eliminate age spots:

  • 1 tsp nutmeg.
  • 1 tsp lemon juice.
  • 1 tbsp l. full-fat yogurt.

The mixture is applied in a dense layer on the skin for 7-10 minutes. After washing, a moisturizer is applied to the face. To achieve a positive result, the mask is done 3 times a week.

For acne treatment, nutmeg is used in the minimum dosage:

  • 1/ 3 tsp. nutmeg powder.
  • 1/ 2 tbsp. l. milk.
  • 1/ 2 tbsp. l. honey.

All ingredients are mixed and the composition is applied to the face. After 5-7 minutes, the mask is washed off with warm water. The cleansing mixture is used systematically, but no more than 3 times a week.

To improve the blood circulation of the hair follicles and stimulate hair growth, it is recommended to prepare a treatment mask:

  • 1/ 2 tsp. nutmeg.
  • 1 tbsp l. yogurt.
  • 1 tbsp l. honey.

Component components are mixed in glassware. The mask is rubbed into the skin of the scalp and covered with a plastic cap and wrapped with a terry towel. After 7-10 minutes, the head is washed in the usual way with shampoo. To achieve the maximum effect, it is enough to make such a mask once a week.

How to choose and store nutmeg?

How to choose and store nutmeg
How to choose and store nutmeg

The high cost of Muscat leads to the appearance of fakes on the market. It is important to know some of the nuances in order to acquire a real valuable spice. Macassar and Bombay nutmeg belong to the genus Miristika, but are fake. Macassar Muscat is common in New Guinea and has a pronounced bitter, burning taste. Bombay - grows in India. Its feature is the rapid loss of smell. You can visually distinguish fakes from fragrant nutmeg, as they look like acorns, and the original is egg-shaped.

If possible, opt for whole nutmeg kernels. They retain aroma, taste and valuable properties for the longest time. Whole nuts are stored in vacuum bags or containers with a tight lid. Choose a cool, dark place for storage.

It is advisable to pour ground nutmeg into a container for spices, which is tightly closed. In paper packaging, the spice quickly loses its taste and aroma.

How much nutmeg can you eat a day?

Nutmeg is one of the spices that, if excessively exceeded, can cause negative consequences. Based on the fact that one nut weighs about 5 grams, you should carefully calculate the safe dose. For a he althy person, the recommended amount of spice is 0.33 grams per 1 kg of weight per day. As a rule, much smaller dosages are used in cooking, which do not pose a threat to the he alth of the body.

Overdose

In case of repeated excess of the recommended dosage of nutmeg, unpleasant symptoms may appear:

  • Bloating.
  • Constipation.
  • Persistent diarrhea.
  • Tachycardia.
  • Vomiting.

It should be remembered that nutmeg contains myristicin and safrole, which in high concentrations can have a narcotic effect [11].

In case of an overdose, a person has hallucinations, motor coordination is disturbed. Chronic intake of high doses of nutmeg causes damage to internal organs, can cause death [12].

Contraindications

Nutmeg is not recommended:

  • Pregnant women, as it can cause miscarriage.
  • For lactating women.
  • Patients with epilepsy.
  • Persons suffering from mental disorders.
  • Children under 12.

If you want to use nutmeg for medicinal purposes, be sure to check with your doctor. He will determine the desired dosage of seasoning and the duration of its use. Start with the lowest doses and carefully assess how you feel to avoid side effects.

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