Nutmeg

At a Glance

Common name

Nutmeg

Scientific name

Myristica fragrans

Family

Myristicaceae

Region

Indonesia

Plant part

Seed (nutmeg), Aril (mace)

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Limited

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

An evergreen tropical tree with leathery oval leaves; the ripe fruit splits to reveal a shiny brown oval nutmeg seed wrapped in a red lacy aril (mace). Both seed and aril are dried as spice.

Also known as: Myristica, Jatiphala, Bandan Nut

Historical Background

Native to the Banda Islands of Indonesia, nutmeg was one of the most prized spices of the medieval and early modern world, driving colonial rivalries for control of its tiny island home. In Ayurveda and medieval European medicine it was a warming digestive and sleep comfort spice, used in tiny amounts in milky bedtime teas.

Earliest recorded uses: Indian and Arab medicine for centuries; a prized spice in medieval European trade — the Banda Islands were the world's sole source.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Warm, sweet, woody, spicy

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Nutmeg has a long tradition as a warming digestive and sleep-comfort spice. Clinical evidence is limited; larger doses are toxic due to myristicin. It is not a treatment for digestive disease, insomnia, or any condition, and should be used only in small culinary amounts.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.