Nutmeg is the dried seed derived from the tree Myristica fragrans . It's sweet, aromatic, warm flavour tends to be strong so it is advisable to use small amounts. Mace is the scarlet fleshy covering called the aril enclosing in a network the seed , the nutmeg. Mace is carefully removed, flattened and dried.
The most important part of the nutmeg and mace is the volatile oil which contains terpenes and aromatics. Nutmeg yields about 25 per cent fixed oil known as nutmeg butter.
It is an important element of the world's cuisines. Best freshly grated , it imparts a delicate taste and colour to a variety of dishes. It is used as a
Flavouring agent.
Dental preparations.
Essence.
Confectionery.
Vegetable dishes.
Beverages.
Drugs.
Archeologists have found nutmeg spiced food from an Indonesian island. They were using nutmeg as a spice 3500 years ago.
Medicinal properties
Carminative.
Feeling a bit down, eating nutmeg -cinnamon biscuits might lift your spirits. Adding 1/2 tsp each of nutmeg and cinnamon to the biscuit recipe will help to reduce mild depression. But don't overeat.
Contains a monoterpene eugenol.
Prevents heart disease by preventing blood cells from forming too many clots.
May have antibacterial properties that may destroy the food borne bacteria E.coli.
Nutmeg poisoning
The active toxic factor is myristicin. Excess of nutmeg can cause hallucination. Even a teaspoon of nutmeg can produce toxic symptoms. It is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis and in high doses has an anticholinergic effect resembling atropine toxicity.
It has been self administered to induce menses or abortion.
Beware :
Nutmeg is poisonous when eaten in very large quantities so should be stored well out of the reach of the children.
Nutmeg and mace are used in many Indian dishes like mutton curries , pulao , sweets , desserts etc . Spices should be eaten in moderation so nutmeg and mace when used in moderation gives maximum benefits and flavour to the food.
Enjoy food and the spices and live healthy.
