Nutmeg, which has a nice smell, is a warm, slightly nutty flavouring. Did you know that this popular spice is made from the seeds of Myristica fragrans, a tropical evergreen tree native to Indonesia?
Though nutmeg is more commonly used for its flavour, it has several health benefits. It contains a splendid array of powerful compounds that may help prevent disease and promote your overall health. Find below the benefits of taking nutmeg:
1.Contains powerful antioxidants
Though small in size, research indicates that the seeds from which nutmeg is derived are rich in plant compounds that act as antioxidants in your body. Antioxidants are compounds that protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. These are molecules that have an unpaired electron, which makes them unstable and reactive. When free radical levels become too high in your body, oxidative stress occurs. It is associated with the onset and progression of many chronic conditions, such as certain cancers and heart and neurodegenerative diseases.
2. Has anti-inflammatory properties
Chronic inflammation is linked to many adverse health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Nutmeg is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds called monoterpenes, including sabinene, terpineol, and pinene. These may help reduce inflammation in your body and benefit those with inflammatory conditions.
3. May boost libido
Based on research, nutmeg enhances sex drive and performance. In one study, male rats that were given high doses of nutmeg extract (227 mg per pound or 500 mg per kg of body weight) experienced significant increases in sexual activity and sexual performance time compared to a control group. However, researchers still aren’t sure exactly how the spice enhances libido. Some surmise these effects are due to its ability to stimulate the nervous system, along with its high content of powerful plant compounds.
4. Has antibacterial properties
Nutmeg has been shown to have antibacterial effects against potentially harmful strains of bacteria. Bacteria like Streptococcus mutans and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans can cause dental cavities and gum disease. Nutmeg has also been found to inhibit the growth of harmful strains of E. coli bacteria, such as O157, which can cause severe illness and even death in humans. While it’s clear that nutmeg has antibacterial properties, more human studies are needed to determine whether it can treat bacterial infections or prevent bacteria-related oral health issues in humans.
5. May benefit heart health
Animal studies show that taking high-dose nutmeg supplements reduced heart disease risk factors, such as high cholesterol and high triglyceride levels, though human research is lacking.
6. Boosts mood
Rodent studies have found that nutmeg extract induced significant antidepressant effects in both mice and rats. Studies are needed to determine if nutmeg extract has the same effect in humans.