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The delightful flavour and warm, earthy notes of this unassuming spice make it a cherished flavouring ingredient. Nutmeg is a commonly used spice in many Indian dishes and is brimming with sweet, citrusy, earthy and warming flavours. Derived from the evergreen tree Myristica Fragrans, this spice is mainly used in South Indian cuisine.
Whether you use it as a whole spice or in powdered form, nutmeg adds a distinctive depth to dishes and imparts complexity. While everyone associates the use of nutmeg with Middle Eastern cuisine, it is also very popular as a spice across South Asia, and especially India. Dishes like Keralan chicken curries and thattukada are especially known for their generous use of this spice. Also, Mughlai delicacies like korma and biryani get their intricate flavours from this spice.
Rich in nutrients like vitamins B1 and B6 and minerals like manganese, magnesium, and copper, nutmeg offers more to the dishes than just its delightful flavour. Know these health properties of nutmeg and savour the benefits it brings to your meals.
Know These 5 Amazing Health Benefits Of Nutmeg
1) Filled With Antioxidants
The extracts of nutmeg and mace derived from Myristica Fragrans contain numerous antioxidants, phenolic compounds, essential oils, and plant pigments. NIH studies have revealed that antioxidants in Nutmeg protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals. High levels of free radicals are also linked with chronic conditions like cancer and heart disease, and through nutmeg, this damage can be halted, leading to a healthy heart. Also, antioxidants boost brain function and support mental clarity and cognitive performance. The antioxidants also positively impact mood, blood sugar control, and heart health.
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2) Boosts Libido
The essential oils, plant compounds, ethanol extracts and aromatic compounds present in nutmeg have aphrodisiac properties which help in boosting libido. Research suggests that nutmeg extract aids in boosting men's sexual activity, erection, and libido. The extracts are rich in plant compounds like phenylpropanoids and terpenes, which help in improving sexual function. In NIH experimental studies, it was concluded that high doses of nutmeg extract stimulate the nervous system which enhances mating performance.
3) Has Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Properties
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of nutmeg benefit skincare, reduce chronic inflammation and relieve pain. The antibacterial properties in nutmeg help in combating bacterial exposure which is responsible for acne, clogged pores and blackheads. The compounds like sabinene, terpineol, pinene, cyanidins, and phenolic compounds present in nutmeg have anti-inflammatory properties which mitigate inflammation in the body that can lead to adverse health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Inflammation is also associated with body pains, which can be relieved with the consumption of nutmeg on a daily basis. In addition to this, nutmeg also protects against infections and breakouts.
4) Acts As a Remedy For Insomnia
Nutmeg works as an effective remedy in combating insomnia and inducing sound sleep. The research conducted by NIH has shown that the ligroin extract present in nutmeg showed a significant increase in light and deep sleep duration in chickens. Not only this, Ayurveda also suggest that nutmeg has sedative properties and consuming warm milk with nutmeg before bed aids in sound sleep. Trimyristin in nutmeg potentially enhances this effect. Also, essential oils in nutmeg alleviate digestive issues like diarrhoea, constipation, and bloating which helps the body to relax and promotes comfort.
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5) Has Antibacterial Properties
Nutmeg has been used as an Asian folk medicine to treat ailments like stomachache, diarrhoea, rheumatism, headache, and chronic vomiting. Nutmeg contains a variety of phytochemicals including lignans, neolignans, diphenylalkenes, terpenoids, alkenes, fatty acids, and flavonoids that have several health benefits associated with them. Ligans and Diphenylalkenes possess antioxidants and are anti-inflammatory too. On top of this, Nutmeg exhibits significant antibacterial activity against various bacteria which combats bacterial infections, including resistant strains. The antibacterial nature also acts as an antiseptic, which helps with dental hygiene and oral health issues like bad breath, tooth pain and gum problems.
Also Read: Nutmeg: The Spice That Caused Wars
With several health benefits, nutmeg can work as an all-in-one remedy for you to boost your health. You can consume nutmeg by including it in your dishes or drinking it with warm milk regularly.
