Nutmeg: The Hidden Herbal Gem for Holistic Wellbeing

Nutmeg is one of my favorite spices in the fall season. I will often times place this herb in cookies to give them a special flavor (and it is one of my secret ingredients). More than just a culinary spice on a spice rack, nutmeg holds a treasure full of health benefits for health just waiting to be explored. As a seasoned nurse, herbalist, and founder of a wellness brand, I’ve taken a deep dive into how herbs around the world can provide our bodies with healing benefits due to their remarkable health properties.

A Brief History: Nutmeg, or Myristica fragrans, has been used by many ancient healing traditions. Specifically, the Egyptians used nutmeg to embalm bodies and cure the plague. Talk about versatility. Egyptians have also used nutmeg as an aphrodisiac, narcotic, and to induce a period in women. Indians have used it to aid with intestinal disorders. You may not be surprised to learn that cultures like the Romans also used nutmeg for a wide range of uses, from incense to medicinal purposes. Also, throughout history, nutmeg has been used by the European, Dutch, and Western cultures (to name a few) for a wide range of uses. Much can be gained from learning about the different cultures and how they have used this spice. You may discover this is a great spice to add to your herb/spice rotation.

Natural Wellness: Nutmeg is a hidden wellness you may miss out on. Did you know nutmeg is not a nut but actually a seed? This warm, rich spice is packed with fiber, magnesium, calcium, and iron in just a tablespoon of dried herbs. Like many other plants, Nutmeg is full of antioxidants, which is important for protecting our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can build up in the body and cause it stress, which can lead to chronic issues like heart and neuro disorders and even cancer. Check out information about how nutmeg can protect your cells on Healthline.com.

Digestive Wellness: Nutmeg shines in promoting digestive health. It has been used by many cultures to improve digestion, decrease gas/ bloating, and promote healthy bowel movements. This could be due to its impressive fiber content. Fiber is known for aiding with regular bowel movements. When also paired with a healthy diet, this spice is a natural remedy for common digestive discomforts, making it a must-have in any wellness pantry. Backed by research, nutmeg has been used to reduce diarrhea and keep bowels regular.

Aside from keeping yourself regular and repairing a leaky gut. Nutmeg is also used by some to regulate blood sugars by aiding your pancreas to effectively produce insulin. Consider using 1 to 2 mg daily in divided doses.

Pain Relief Properties: Nutmeg is also a natural pain reliever. This action is made possible because of nutmeg’s eugenol, myristicin, and elemicin. These analgesic properties are beneficial for alleviating chronic inflammation, muscle pain, and even menstrual discomfort. Incorporating nutmeg into your routine can provide a gentle, natural approach to pain management. Adding it to creams and toothpaste can aid with joint or tooth pain.

Mental Health Benefits: If you want to add another plant to the rotation of increasing mental clarity, nutmeg Nutmeg’s impact on mental health is noteworthy. Its compounds can enhance mood and cognitive function, making it a natural ally against stress and anxiety. Nutmeg encourages the release of serotonin and dopamine, fostering a sense of well-being. Now I know why my cookies were such a hit during the holiday season. Natural practitioners have used nutmeg to aid with supporting Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative disorders. When it comes to plants, research is always needed. Studies on plants have shown many benefits, and when paired with a healthy diet, you may experience the positive effects.

Oral Health Enhancer: Did you know you can make your own toothpaste? Now, I have never studied teeth, but I have mixed coconut, baking soda, and herbs together to create my own toothpaste. The feeling I felt from using it was better than any toothpaste I have ever used. My teeth also felt the cleanest. I also used this with my kids, who prefer it to regular toothpaste. The antibacterial qualities of nutmeg contribute to oral health. Regular use can combat bad breath and prevent bacterial growth, contributing to healthier gums and teeth.

Sleep Quality Improvement: SLEEP is so IMPORTANT. While resting, your body takes time to build, repair, and store learned information. For those facing sleep disturbances, nutmeg can be a natural aid. Consider adding a little more than a pinch to a class of your favorite nighttime beverage (or glass of warm milk). Its calming properties, attributed to its magnesium content, help relax the nervous system and promote better sleep patterns. You can also combine it with other herbs specific to promoting sleep.

Skin Care Applications: Have you ever used a kitchen herb to wash your face or as a mask. Nutmeg’s benefits extend to skincare and can be a lovely addition to a skincare routine. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it an excellent remedy for acne and skin blemishes. Nutmeg-infused skincare products can lead to clearer, more radiant skin.

Usage Tips: Integrating nutmeg into your health routine is simple. It can be added to foods and beverages or used in oil form for topical applications. When it comes to using herbs/spices and other plants for general health purposes, it is important to remember to rotate. Try using a plant for two to three days and then switch it out for another plant for a few days. I often rotate some plants on a month, one month off, and other plants one week on/ off. Unless targeting a specific health issue, I generally follow this routine. Remember, moderation is key – nutmeg, like other plants, is potent and should be used in small quantities.

Precautions: Using nutmeg responsibly is crucial, as high doses can be harmful. Remember, too much of anything is bad for you. Typically, if consuming more than 15 grams of nutmeg a day, you may start to feel an increased heart rate, nausea, pain, and, more seriously, seizures and hallucinations. Always consult with a healthcare provider (naturopathic doctor) if you’re unsure about incorporating it into your health regimen, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition. Nutmeg is generally considered safe if pregnant or breastfeeding.

In conclusion, nutmeg is a versatile and powerful herb with many health benefits. It has more potential than enhancing baked goods. The way it can aid our bodies both physically and mentally is, to me, quite fascinating. You may want to consider adding it to your spice cabinet. Explore our wellness store for high-quality, organic nutmeg products and discover the holistic benefits of this incredible spice. Nutmeg isn’t just for your kitchen; it’s a wellness ally waiting to enrich your health journey! I plan on adding this to my diffuser this season and some of my body butter.

Take care of your body, it’s the only place you have to live”— Jim Rohn

Jasmine Hutchinson, RN, Doula, and Herbalist

DISCLAIMER…THIS BLOG IS INTENDED SOLELY TO SERVE AS A RESOURCE TO HEALTH INFORMATION AND TO PROVIDE YOU WITH BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT THE SYMPTOMS, CAUTIONS, SAFETY CONCERNS, NATURAL REMEDIES, DIY RECIPES, AND NUTRITIONAL CONCERNS RELATED TO ALL ASPECTS OF HEALTH. THIS BLOG DOES NOT PROVIDE A COMPREHENSIVE EXPLANATION OF ALL ASPECTS OF ANY HEALTH CONDITION OR CONCERN OR EVEN THOSE ASPECTS THAT ARE DISCUSSED IN THIS BLOG. THIS BLOG IS NOT INTENDED TO BE–AND YOU SHOULD NOT USE IT AS–A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR HEALTH CARE GIVEN BY A LICENSED HEALTH CARE PROVIDER. BE SURE TO SEE A LICENSED HEALTH CARE PROVIDER TO HELP ENSURE YOUR HEALTH AND THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF YOUR FAMILY.