What is Nutmeg Essential Oil?

Nutmeg essential oil is the spicy, warm, and nutty aromatic extract obtained by steam distillation of the seeds (nuts) of the tree scientifically named Myristica fragans, belonging to Myristicaceae family.

Myristica fragans is a tree that grows exclusively in tropical areas. Originally from the Banda Islands in the Moluccas, Indonesia, a country that maintains an important volume of production next to the Antilles and Malaysia.

This tree measures between 10-20 meters high and has dense foliage of perennial odorous leaves. Its leaves are dark green with oval shape and marked ribs.

Its fruit of thick pulp (drupe) similar to peach, once ripe, opens and shows the ovoid seed. This seed has attached a gummy tegument that can be yellow, orange or red.

This tegument has a discontinuous grid structure, called mace (aril); behind which is nutmeg almond, which, like a conventional almond, has a hard and woody cover that protects the seed that we use once dried.

The seeds smaller than 10 grams are destined for the obtaining of essential oils, which are used in the alimentary, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry.

Nutmeg essential oil blends well with black pepper, cypress, clary sage, coriander, geranium, lavender, lime, mandarin, oakmoss, orange, Peru balsam, petitgrain and rosemary essential oil.

Nutmeg in History

The presence of nutmeg dates back to the Roman era of Pliny the Elder (23-79 AD Approx.), describing its use as a spice and incense for religious ceremonies.

Subsequently, from the eleventh century its availability was facilitated by the Arabs through the silk route, for in the sixteenth century be marketed by Portuguese, and later by Dutch. Then, in the eighteenth century, its therapeutic use for cases of flatulence and diarrhea was referenced by the doctors of the Elizabethan London.

Also used in gastronomy, whether powdered or whole, nutmeg has served to flavor and enhance the taste of a wide range of culinary possibilities. Likewise, it has benefited with its medicinal applications from the Ayurvedic and Unani tradition, typical of the geography from which it originates.

Active Principles of Nutmeg Essential Oil

The components of nutmeg are numerous, however, the ones that stand out are: miristicin, camphor, eugenol, various minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, iron or manganese. vitamin C, catechins, acetic, formic, oleic, linoleic acids. Limonene, lignin, safrole, sabinene and other terpenes.

Properties of Nutmeg Essential Oil

The main properties of nutmeg oil are: analgesic, antioxidant, antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, carminative, antispasmodic, digestive, energetic, aphrodisiac, antiseptic, stimulant and tonic.

Additionally, it has antidontalgic, antiemetic, antitoxic, calming, cardiac, cephalic, cordial, emmenagogue, narcotic (in high doses), stomach, hormonal, hepatoprotective, neurotonic, uterine tonic, larvicidal, antidisbiosis, antiparasitic, laxative, litholitic and parturient effects.

Benefits of Nutmeg Essential Oil

Helps in the prevention of heart diseases

Cardiopathies are cardiovascular disorders that affect the ability of the heart to function properly. Its causes are many, although the most common is related to a narrowing or blockage in the coronary arteries that supply blood to the myocardium.

Nutmeg is rich in monoterpenes, a compound with anticoagulant properties that helps in the natural prevention of heart disease. It is also useful for regular consumption in case of heart problems. Additionally, it prevents the formation of thrombi.

Excellent natural antibacterial

Nutmeg is a wonderful natural antibacterial, which helps protect our body from the spread of certain bacteria, such as Escherichia Coli.

Natural treatment against Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory process, mainly of the intestinal tract. Although it can affect any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus.

Nutmeg has proven its effectiveness by acting as a potent natural anti-inflammatory. It is also an excellent treatment to relieve and improve bowel inflammation, and soothe the pain caused by this chronic ailment.

Fights oral diseases

Nutmeg essential oil is a great ally in oral health when used as an analgesic, antibacterial and anti-fungal, since it prevents the colonization of unwanted microorganisms in the oral cavity and, additionally, prevents caries and relieve gum pain.

Soothes digestive complaints

Used as a carminative for flatulence, nausea and diarrhea, nutmeg essential oil can help eliminate gases that accumulate in the intestine. On the other hand, it also helps relieve cramping caused by certain foods or beverages.

Stimulates the appetite

The use of nutmeg essential oil accelerates digestion. Besides, it is extremely effective for people who easily lose their appetite or suffer from anorexia. It is also a great help for those who want to gain weight.

Relieves muscle and joint pain

Another of the magnificent properties of nutmeg, is to act as a sedative. Thanks to its analgesic power, it can reduce muscular and joint pains. It is highly effective in treating arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatism and lumbago.

In addition, it also acts as an anti-inflammatory, which will help decrease swelling in certain parts of the body.

Helps with diarrheal problems

Due to its astringent property, it stops diarrhea and stomach spasms.

Traditionally, it was widely used for this purpose, since its effect was infallible fighting this condition.

Relieves indigestion

Nutmeg essential oil helps eliminate pain and discomfort caused by foods that are difficult to digest.

Stimulates the digestive process, so it will make it easier for the body to get rid of harmful compounds.

Improves circulation

It stimulates the blood flow through the body. It also helps to reduce cramps and diseases related to poor circulation.

Due to the above, it promotes the correct functioning of our entire system, since when there is an optimal circulation, it allows the body to carry the necessary nutrients to each organ.

Regulates menstrual cycles

The use of nutmeg essential oil helps normalize irregular menstrual cycles. Also, it diminishes the pain caused by the characteristic cramps of this period.

Additionally, due to its calming and relaxing effect, it can control the hormonal disorder that occurs in this cycle, avoiding states of irritability, depression and/or anxiety.

On the other hand, nutmeg essential oil has properties that help treat dysmenorrhea. This disease is known by producing strong pain at the time of menstruation, in addition to other symptoms such as cramps, headaches, vomiting, etc.

Alleviates respiratory diseases

Traditionally, this is another of its uses. It is known to possess compounds that help treat certain diseases related to the respiratory system. Also, its efficacy as an expectorant is known, eliminating mucus and substances that cause congestion in the respiratory tract.

Relieves cough

It helps control the spasms generated by the cough, producing a sense of relief and calmness.

Formerly, it was believed that with the nutmeg essence it was possible to treat asthma. This, because it was able to control the symptoms related to other diseases, such as flu or cough.

Helps to treat insomnia

Inhaling nutmeg essential oil helps notoriously in sleep disorders. The relaxing effect allows to achieve sleep more easily, and without the need to rely on pills for it.

Also, by taking a bath with a couple of drops of nutmeg essential oil, we can get the same relaxing effect.

Eliminates bad breath

Thanks to its antibacterial effects, nutmeg essential oil is able to help eliminate halitosis or bad breath. It removes bacteria and microorganisms that cause the appearance of these odors from the mouth.

Protects the liver

As it is known, nutmeg essential oil is a potent component that benefits the liver in different aspects.

Several studies indicate that due to one of its compounds (myristicin), the oil acts as a protector of this organ, thus, achieving its proper functioning and preventing the appearance of chronic diseases.

Body stimulant

Nutmeg essential oil not only stimulates the mind, avoiding depression, anxiety or irritability, but it is also great to keep us active.

It is excellent for relieving muscle fatigue, allowing the body to perform any physical activity. Besides, it is known that it can help stimulate libido, which positions it as an aphrodisiac oil.

Antioxidant activity

The studies carried out on the properties of nutmeg essential oil result very interesting, based on their important antioxidant character, in which the following benefits are associated:

Acts positively in bone metabolism
Regulator of total cholesterol levels
Platelet antiaggregant
Immunomodulator
Anticarcinogenic
Radioprotective

How is Nutmeg Essential Oil applied?

In the bath

For relaxation and to benefit the skin, it is possible to add a few drops of nutmeg essential oil in a bathtub filled with warm water. Thus, we will enjoy its relaxing, soothing and sedative effect. In addition, we will achieve a smoother and rejuvenated skin.

Diffusing

Especially to spread its delicious aroma throughout the house. It is also excellent for relaxing and relieving stress; reduce depression and mental health problems.

Orally

This must be done through an infusion or in the manner recommended by the doctor. However, you should not consume more than a few drops daily. Its toxic effects can be very harmful to health.

Topical application

The topical application should be done with the nutmeg essential oil previously diluted in a carrier oil or, added to lotions or creams. The application can be in a specific area or in the form of a massage, according to the need.

There are also other ways in which we can enjoy the benefits of this wonderful oil. Among others, we can find: soaps, deodorants, incense, spices, cosmetics, etc.

Gargles

Add a couple of drops in a glass of water and make gargles for oral problems.

Aromatherapy and Nutmeg Essential Oil

The beneficial effects that are obtained from nutmeg essential oil through aromatherapy sessions are:

PSYCHO EMOTIONAL EFFECTS

Aphrodisiac: strengthens the body and mind, awakening sensuality.
Balances the central nervous system.
Relieves chronic fatigue.
Stimulates creative energy and increases bioelectric energy.
Calm hysterical people and excited for no reason.
Eliminates negative charges in the home.
Revitalize memory and concentration.
Decreases depression, anxiety and nervous tension.

PHYSICAL EFFECTS

Tonic: stimulant of the organism in general.
It helps to fight, practically, all gastrointestinal disorders related to neurosis and incorrect nutrition (excess fat). Makes food more digestible, eliminates toxins, etc.
Excellent to relieve pain and discomfort in muscles, joints, neuralgia, etc.
Very helpful in the therapy of rheumatism.
A good scalp tonic. Promotes hair growth and prevents hair loss.
Powerful vasoprotective: valuable in the treatment of varicose veins, broken veins, ulcers, etc.
Digestive system: antiseptic and intestinal anti-inflammatory, gastric stimulant, antispasmodic and analgesic.
Dissolves gallstones.
Imitates the hormone estrogen: tones the system of female reproduction, balancing irregular menstrual periods.
Helps childbirth by strengthening contractions.
Stimulates blood circulation, lymphatic and tones the heart.

Uses of Nutmeg Essential Oil

As an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, for skin treatment and to improve circulation, among others.

In aromatherapy, where you can take advantage of the incredible benefits mentioned above.

Nutmeg is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for cases of fever, halitosis, various heart problems and headaches. It is considered a good stimulant and excellent digestive.

To reduce gums inflammation, treat depression, stress and mental fatigue; relieve rheumatic and menstrual pain; treat indigestion and other digestive problems, etc.

It should be noted that the toxicity of this oil is high when it is not used correctly.

Warnings and Precautions when using Nutmeg Essential Oil

Toxicity

Its action on the Central Nervous System (CNS), gives the nutmeg a psychoactive reaction that requires prudence in its prescription. This reality, together with the lack of conclusive data on the efficacy of its possible indications, causes the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) to determine its maximum dose in supplementation with the value of 0.05 mg / kg / day in adults.

Precautions

Do not use directly on the skin, always dilute it with some carrier oil.
Do not eat without the advice of a therapist.
Keep out of the reach of babies and children.
Avoid its use in pregnant women and breastfeeding without consulting a specialist.
Essential oils can cause skin irritations, especially in sensitive skin, it is recommended to perform an allergic patch test before use.
Take maximum care with the eyes and, do not apply inside the ears, nose and anal or genital areas.
If in doubt, consult a professional before use.

Where to buy Nutmeg Essential Oil?

Usually, good quality oils, that is, 100% pure and not mixed with other substances, can be found in specialized natural herb stores.

If you can not reach a trusted naturist or herbalist shop near you, here are some recommendation for you:

Nutmeg Essential Oil by SWB

Scent Characteristics: Rich, spicy, sweet, nutty scent.

Our 100% Pure Essential Oils are extracted from the root, bark, wood, seed, fruit, leaf, or flower of a freshly harvested plant.

We source only the finest quality essential oils from highly regarded suppliers and distillers from around the world, many with whom we’ve worked with for decades.

Many of our oils are steam-distilled or cold-pressed, therefore retaining the essential odor, aroma, taste, medicinal, and therapeutic properties of the plant, resulting in a superior quality, and highly concentrated essence. Shop here.

The following are also good quality essential oils that you can find on Amazon:

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Tips for a better performance and duration of your oils:

Store them in a dark glass bottle, never plastic, not even when blended with a carrier oil.
Keep them in cool, dark places, away from sources of heat and light.
Maintain the container that holds it tightly closed, since they are very volatile and also, their properties would be lost or modified.