Nutmeg is the fruit of the tropical evergreen nutmeg tree. It has a spicy, refined aroma. Due to its extraordinary smell, this spice is used mainly in cooking. However, the essential oil of this spice is used in the field of perfumery and medicine, as well as in the production of tobacco products. It is curious that nutmeg, with all its medicinal properties, also has negative sides.
Useful and harmful ingredients of nutmeg
The value of nutmeg is due to the nutrients present in its composition. It is rich in various trace elements: calcium, iron, phosphorus and magnesium. It contains some B vitamins, as well as vitamin A. But the main components of nutmeg are essential oil, starch and protein.
In addition, this nut contains a well-known hallucinogen - elemicin. That is why excessive consumption of this spice is extremely dangerous. It is undesirable to eat more than three kernels of nutmeg, and as a seasoning it is recommended to add it only at the tip of a knife. An excess of this spice can lead to surges in intracranial pressure, arrhythmias and even death.
Benefits of nutmeg
The main benefit of nutmeg is its stimulating and tonic effect. Regular intake of this spice helps to overcome stress and also improves memory and brain function. It is also known that this nut has a general strengthening effect on the entire human body and on its individual organs. Muscat fruits are designed to fight infections and help the heart and blood vessels work well.
In order to give a unique taste and smell to their dishes, people around the world widely use nutmeg in cooking. Traditionally, it is added to various meat dishes, Easter cakes, and is also used for canning fruits and vegetables. The addition of nutmeg to food helps to improve immunity and reduce the risk of developing cancerous tumors. In addition, regular consumption of this spice improves digestion.
Essential oil of nutmeg, added to perfume compositions, relieves fatigue and drowsiness, and also increases concentration. Nutmeg is also actively used by cosmetologists to create new biologically active substances. It is curious that nowadays, nutmeg nuts are an indispensable component in aromatherapy.
Nutmeg harm
In reasonable amounts, nutmeg is an attractive and desirable spice: it gives food an additional flavor, helps to overcome diseases and fills cooked dishes (as well as perfumes and creams) with incredible aroma. However, an overdose of nutmeg threatens a person with unpleasant consequences. The daily norm for the use of this spice is as follows: 1 g per 10 kg of the total weight of a person. Accordingly, exceeding this norm is dangerous to human health and life.
Improper consumption of nutmeg can also cause tachycardia, hallucinations, euphoria, impaired coordination of movement, headache, fainting, fever. In addition, nutmeg is contraindicated in pregnant women, the elderly, and children. Also, this spice is not recommended for people suffering from epilepsy and various types of allergies.
