Nutmeg Health!!!

Nutmeg (known as Jaiphal in India) is generally taken for granted in
recipes like that of cakes and bakes. But did you take its health
effects granted too?
I underestimated the values of nutmeg thinking that it was just a
spice to perk up the flavour in soups, soufflés and cakes. If it was
not available in the store, I never tried to hunt it down in the
market too. Though substantially not proven, the health benefits of
nutmeg are many in the ancient beliefs. Modern research shows that
some of the health benefits are indeed true, if used in moderation.
The Ancient Beliefs

Nutmeg is a remedy for stomach cramps
It can alleviate cardio vascular problems
It can be a cure to plague
A great brain tonic to stimulate the brain
It can cure gastric problems, soothe stomach ache, stop diarrhoea
and vomiting, and also enhance appetite
Provide relief to asthma, cold and cough
An excellent liver tonic to help detoxification

The Modern Findings
Nutmeg can be used in the powdered form or as an oil taken from the
seed of the plant. The nutmeg oil is a volatile essential oil used as
a sedative, stimulant, relaxing, anti inflammatory, antiseptic and
bactericide. It contains myristicin, elemicin, eugenol, and safrole.
Other than for flavouring,due to its medicinal benefits it also has a
significant presence in cosmetics, cough syrups, tooth pastes and the
like.

The anti inflammatory properties makes nutmeg a great remedy for
treating muscular aches, joint pains and sores. Topical use is
recommended for instant pain relief from arthritis, rheumatism,
lumbago etc.
Using nutmeg in food will help your digestive system by aiding
digestion, removing gas from stomach and intestine and curing
flatulence.
Instant stress relief is another benefit of using nutmeg wisely.
It will tone the brain and enhance mental activity.
As you relax and optimize your sleep with its sedative effect,
nutmeg also works to lower your blood pressure.
The anti bacterial properties of nutmeg kill the cavity causing
bacteria in the mouth and keep mouth odour at bay. Treat toothaches by
keeping a few drops of nutmeg oil in a cotton swab on the aching
tooth!
Use nutmeg oil as a cold rub for relief from colds and coughs!
For kidney health and liver health, nutmeg is believed to be a
good detoxifier if used in moderation.

Safety Concerns
A pinch or two can be used in the cuisine to spice up the dishes. A
little extra would be fatal. It is not advisable to use nutmeg powder
or oil if you are pregnant or are lactating though its use in culinary
at that time should be harmless.
Use and Storage
Always use freshly ground nutmeg powder for your cuisine. Grate the
pod only when needed as a pod can remain fresh for a year. Store
nutmeg in an airtight container and the used pod in a plastic wrap to
retain its oil content.
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