NUTMEG
Nutmeg tree is any of several species of trees
in genus Myristica. It is important for two spices derived from
the fruit: nutmeg and mace. The common or fragrant nutmeg, Myristica fragrans,
native to the Banda Islands of Indonesia, is also grown in Penang Island in Malaysia and the Caribbean, especially in Grenada. It also grows in Kerala, a state in southern India. Nutmeg and
mace have similar sensory qualities, with nutmeg having a slightly sweeter and
mace a more delicate flavour. Mace is often preferred in light dishes for the
bright orange, saffron-like hue it imparts. Nutmeg
is used for flavouring many dishes, usually in ground or grated form, and is
best grated fresh in a nutmeg
grater.
Nutmeg is a small package with several big benefits. It’s used
for prevention and healing of many known conditions. Here are some most common
uses of nutmeg:
Ø Medically, nutmeg has strong antibacterial
properties. It is effective in killing a number of cavity-causing bacteria in
the mouth.
Ø Like cloves, nutmeg contains eugenol, a
compound that may benefit the heart.
Ø Myristicin found in nutmeg has been shown to
inhibit an enzyme in the brain that contributes to Alzheimer’s disease and is
used to improve memory.
Ø It is used in small dosages to reduce
flatulence [excessive stomach or intestinal gas], aid digestion and improve
appetite.
Ø In Arab countries, nutmeg is valued as an
aphrodisiac [substance believed to increase sexual desire].
Ø Nutmeg can help to combat asthma.
Ø It is also used to relax muscles.
Ø Nutmeg contains 10 per cent essential oil
which is a colourless or light yellow liquid. The oil is obtained by the steam
distillation of ground nutmeg. Besides being used in toothpastes, cough syrups,
perfumes and cosmetic industry, externally nutmeg oil is mixed with almond oil
and is used to relieve rheumatic pain.
Ø Nutmeg oil is used to treat toothaches. Drops
of essential oil are put on cotton swab and applied to the gums around an
aching tooth, sometimes also used to control bad breath.
Ø Drops of nutmeg oil can also be mixed with
honey to treat nausea, gastroenteritis, chronic diarrhoea and indigestion.
Ø In homoeopathy, nutmeg is used to treat
anxiety and depression.
Ø In Chinese medicine, it is used to treat
impotence and liver disease.
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