Nutmeg
is considered a twin spice, since the fruit produces nutmeg and mace (which is the
outer layer of red fiber around the seed which is milder in flavor). Nutmeg finds its application in flavorings,
healing and aromatherapy.
It
has quite a history because in earlier centuries it had a high trade
value. Today, we are familiar with its
use during the holiday season with pumpkin pie, spice cookies and eggnog. I use it all throughout the year in my mashed
potatoes and cheese dishes.
It
also makes a wonderful air freshener as a scented candle. The greatest benefit can be found in the
medicinal use. Nutmeg has analgesic,
anti-septic, digestive, stimulant, tonic and anti-oxidant properties.
In
“Nathaniel’s Nutmeg,” British author
Giles Milton writes about Nathaniel Courthope who was a trusted captain of the
East India Company, who fought a fierce battle in the 17th century against
the Dutch by defending Run, the tiny island in the volcanic group of the Banda
Islands in today’s Indonesia. At that
time Run was the only place in the world where the priced nutmeg trees were
growing. (I will write the next blog
about the events which took place on Run and the Dutch-Anglo war which resulted
in the trade of Run for the island of Manhattan (which was controlled by the
Dutch and was called New Amsterdam).
Nutmeg’s
Use in the Kitchen
There
are many culinary uses for nutmeg, mainly in sweet and spicy dishes like
pumpkin pie, puddings, custards, spice cakes and cookies. It works well in soups like split pea,
chicken or black beans or as an addition to cheese sauces. In Middle Eastern cooking it is added to meat
dishes like lamb as well. Italians are adding it to their sausages. During the holiday season it is added to
eggnog and mulled wines and punches. One
whole nutmeg grates into 2-3 teaspoons of ground nutmeg.
Nutmeg
in the Medicine Cabinet
There
many more medicinal uses of nutmeg. The
oil can become a rub for muscle and joint pains in arthritis. In ancient Greece and Rome small amounts of
nutmeg oil which contains myristicin were used as brain stimulants to induce
dreams and to relieve stress.
Small
doses of ground nutmeg can be added to liquids to reduce flatulence,
indigestion and nausea. In holistic
medicine it is considered an excellent liver tonic which can remove
toxins. Nutmeg oil can be used to
dissolve kidney stones and relieve infections.
Nutmeg
can help with respiratory problems and can be used in the common cold against
coughing.
NOTE: Large doses (2-3
nutmegs per day) can cause hallucinations, vomiting and other serious side
effects, even death.
Nutmeg
in Aromatherapy
In
aromatherapy nutmeg oil finds various applications: it stimulates circulation,
eases muscular aches and joint pains in arthritis and helps with nausea and
indigestion. It can also be added in
small amounts to a glass of milk to induce sleep.
The
home uses for nutmeg mainly focus on its fragrance. With its musky smell it is often combined
with other aromas to make candles and other aromatherapy products.
Nutmeg’s
Magic
In
the old days people used to carry nutmeg seeds as protection from danger and
evil. It was acceptable to put a nut in
your armpit before attending a social event, believing that you could attract
more admirers.
At
some point it was popular to carry a seed and a little grinder with you to social
events in a beautiful box made of wood, silver or ivory.
Commercial
uses of Nutmeg
Nutmeg
and mace are used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. They are often added as flavorings in
medicine or as fragrances in colognes for men.
They are also added to soaps, perfumes, detergents and lotions. Some cough medicines contain nutmeg. Many popular drinks and foods contain
nutmeg. Did you know that Coca-Cola
contains nutmeg?
WARNINGS: Nutmeg in large quantities can be toxic and
even fetal. Never use more than 30 grams
(6 tablespoons) in a day. Even 3
tablespoons are considered excessive.
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