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Isn’t it sad that amazing spice like Nutmeg has got such bad name?

Indeed it is… I vouch on its remarkable health benefits but just because some teenagers decided to abuse nutmeg, it is viewed with suspicion.

· Spice

Nutmeg contains myristicin, a natural compound that has mind-altering effects if consumed in large quantities. Clearly, this occurs only if ingested more than 2 tbsp.
The effects include an out-of-body sensation, but the most common are feeling of intense nausea, dizziness, extreme dry mouth, and a slowdown of normal brain function lasting one to two days.. much like hallucinogenic feeling.

We will focus on exploring nutmeg through positive lenses and enjoy its woodsy sweet flavor reminiscing the holiday feeling with its warm aroma. It really does have chemical constituents that make you feel good," explains culinary historian Kathleen Wall of the Plimoth Plantation. And usually, we choose nutmeg (along with cloves and cinnamon) this time of year because these spices can help warm us up and even help us fight off head colds and stomachaches.

Where are how nutmeg grows?
Nutmeg grows on the evergreen plant. The plant belongs to the islands near Indonesia and can be found in South India as well.

Appearance, Aroma and more….
Nutmeg is a seed with a pleasant aroma and contains a hint of sweetness. It is generally used sweet and savory cooking in pies, desserts, sauces, one dish meals marinating meats, for flavoring. Nutmeg reminds us of the festive season, as this spice is often served in warm festive beverages like eggnog and apple spice cider.

Health benefits:

1. It is used to treat insomnia

Insomnia (sleep problems) is one of the most frustrating health problems that forces you to go for medication. Medication is likely to worsen the problem as they are addictive and do not provide a long-term solution. Also, chances are becoming an insomniac again once you stop the medicines. As a Dietetic I believe that nutmeg can do the job for you. It works by relaxing the stressed mind and by helping relieve the mental pressure, thus allowing you to sleep peacefully.

2. Nutmeg have carminative properties.
It is used to reduce flatulence, aid in digestion and improve appetite. It also helps to treat diarrhea and is used to fight nausea. Besides, the dietary fiber found in the spice functions to regulate irregular bowel movements. Consuming nutmeg regularly cannot only stimulate digestion but can treat intestinal problems as well.

3. Oral Treatment

Nutmeg can treat bad breath because of its antibacterial properties. As you know, bad breath is usually caused by a build-up of bacteria in your mouth. Nutmeg can help your mouth get of these bacteria. This is the reason why nutmeg is a commonly used in toothpastes. Nutmeg can also be used to treat gum problems and toothaches.

Home remedies

1. Rub nutmeg oil on your gums twice a day for pain relief and to treat gum and tooth problems.
2. Apply nutmeg oil to the aching joints and muscles. It helps relieve pain from arthritis, sores and other ailments.
3. Add a pinch of nutmeg powder into a glass of warm milk to treat chronic insomnia. Since nutmeg takes longer to kick in make sure you drink it few hours earlier before going to sleep.