# Myristica fragrans (Nutmeg Fruit)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/myristica-fragrans
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-23
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Herb
**Also Known As:** Myristica fragrans, Nutmeg, Jaiphal, Jatiphala, Pala, Muscadier, Noz-moscada, Buah pala

## Overview

Myristica fragrans fruit pericarp contains bioactive lignans and phenolic compounds that demonstrate [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties. The pericarp extracts inhibit cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) by 36-47%, suggesting potential therapeutic applications.

## Health Benefits

["\u2022 May possess [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties. Pericarp extracts inhibited COX-1 (42-44%) and COX-2 (36-47%) enzymes at 100 \u00b5g/mL. Evidence quality: Preliminary (in vitro).", "\u2022 Exhibits [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). Lignans within extracts demonstrated antioxidant effects on enzymes like glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. Evidence quality: Preliminary (in vitro/animal).", "\u2022 Provides a rich source of neolignans. Compounds isolated from the pericarp, such as neolignans, showed bioactivity in lab assays. Evidence quality: Preliminary (in vitro).", "\u2022 Contains bioactive phenylpropanoids. Myristicin and elemicin, found in the pericarp, contributed to enzyme inhibition in laboratory models. Evidence quality: Preliminary (in vitro).", "\u2022 Traditionally used for digestive support. It has a history of use in Ayurvedic and Indonesian folk medicine as a carminative to aid [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health). Evidence quality: Traditional (historical use)."]

## Mechanism of Action

Nutmeg fruit pericarp extracts inhibit cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) by 42-44% and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) by 36-47% at concentrations of 100 μg/mL, reducing inflammatory [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) synthesis. The lignans present in the extracts provide antioxidant effects by scavenging free radicals and protecting cellular enzymes from oxidative damage. These dual mechanisms suggest potential for managing inflammation-related conditions through both enzymatic inhibition and [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) reduction.

## Clinical Summary

Current research on nutmeg fruit pericarp is limited to preliminary in vitro studies examining enzyme inhibition and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity. Laboratory studies demonstrate measurable COX enzyme inhibition ranging from 36-47% at 100 μg/mL concentrations, indicating dose-dependent [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity. No human clinical trials have been conducted to establish safety, efficacy, or optimal dosing protocols. The evidence quality remains preliminary, requiring controlled human studies to validate therapeutic potential and establish clinical relevance.

## Nutritional Profile

{"macronutrients": {"carbohydrates": "50.5 g per 100 g", "protein": "5.8 g per 100 g", "fat": "36.3 g per 100 g", "fiber": "20.8 g per 100 g"}, "micronutrients": {"vitamins": {"vitamin A": "5 IU per 100 g", "vitamin C": "3 mg per 100 g", "vitamin B6": "0.16 mg per 100 g"}, "minerals": {"calcium": "184 mg per 100 g", "iron": "3.04 mg per 100 g", "magnesium": "183 mg per 100 g", "phosphorus": "213 mg per 100 g", "potassium": "350 mg per 100 g", "zinc": "2.15 mg per 100 g"}}, "bioactive_compounds": {"myristicin": "4-8% of essential oil content", "safrole": "0.1-0.3% of essential oil content", "eugenol": "2-3% of essential oil content"}, "bioavailability_notes": "The bioavailability of myristicin and other essential oil components can vary based on preparation and consumption methods. Cooking may reduce some volatile compounds."}

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for Myristica fragrans extracts, powders, or standardized forms have been established due to a complete lack of human trials. Traditional culinary use involves small quantities (e.g., under 5g of powder), but this does not constitute a therapeutic dose. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Safety data for nutmeg fruit pericarp extracts is limited, with no established adverse effect profiles or contraindications documented in clinical literature. Nutmeg seed is known to cause toxicity at high doses (>5g), but pericarp safety profiles may differ significantly from seed preparations. Potential interactions with anticoagulant medications may occur due to COX inhibition effects, though this remains theoretical without clinical validation. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data and potential uterine stimulant properties associated with nutmeg compounds.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), or meta-analyses specific to Myristica fragrans fruit or its extracts were identified in the provided research dossier. The available evidence is limited to preclinical in vitro and animal studies, and no PMIDs were cited.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Myristica fragrans has been utilized for centuries in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, Unani, and Indonesian folk medicine. It was primarily employed for digestive complaints, pain relief, and as a carminative spice, though specific timelines for its use are not detailed.

## Synergistic Combinations

No synergistic ingredients were identified in the provided research.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What compounds in nutmeg fruit provide anti-inflammatory effects?

Nutmeg fruit pericarp contains lignans and phenolic compounds that inhibit COX-1 enzymes by 42-44% and COX-2 enzymes by 36-47% at 100 μg/mL concentrations. These bioactive compounds work synergistically to reduce inflammatory prostaglandin production.

### How much nutmeg fruit extract is needed for anti-inflammatory benefits?

In vitro studies show COX enzyme inhibition at 100 μg/mL concentrations, but no human clinical trials have established effective dosing protocols. Current evidence is limited to laboratory studies without established therapeutic dosages for humans.

### Is nutmeg fruit pericarp the same as nutmeg spice?

No, nutmeg fruit pericarp is the outer covering of the nutmeg fruit, while nutmeg spice comes from the inner seed. The pericarp contains different concentrations of lignans and may have distinct bioactive profiles compared to the commonly used seed.

### Can nutmeg fruit extracts interact with blood thinning medications?

Theoretical interactions may occur due to COX enzyme inhibition effects that could enhance anticoagulant medications. However, no clinical studies have documented specific drug interactions with nutmeg fruit pericarp extracts.

### What evidence supports nutmeg fruit's antioxidant properties?

Laboratory studies demonstrate that lignans in nutmeg fruit pericarp extracts provide antioxidant effects on cellular enzymes. However, evidence remains preliminary from in vitro studies without human clinical validation of antioxidant benefits.

### What is the difference between nutmeg fruit extract and nutmeg seed spice?

Nutmeg fruit extract is derived from the pericarp (outer husk) of Myristica fragrans, which contains different phytochemical profiles than the commonly used nutmeg seed spice. The pericarp is rich in lignans and compounds that inhibit COX enzymes, while nutmeg seed spice is primarily used as a culinary seasoning with different volatile oil compositions. Fruit extracts are typically standardized for research and supplementation purposes, whereas seed spice is a whole food with traditional culinary applications.

### Who should avoid nutmeg fruit supplements, and are there specific populations at higher risk?

Pregnant and nursing women should exercise caution with concentrated nutmeg fruit extracts due to limited safety data in these populations, though culinary amounts of nutmeg spice are generally considered safe. Individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing, as nutmeg compounds may have mild blood-thinning properties. Children and those with liver or kidney impairment should also seek professional guidance before use.

### How does the bioavailability of nutmeg fruit pericarp extract compare between different extraction methods?

Extraction methods significantly influence which compounds are available for absorption; water-based extracts capture different lignans and polyphenols compared to alcohol or lipid-based extracts. The lignans in nutmeg fruit pericarp—responsible for observed antioxidant activity in preliminary studies—may have better bioavailability when extracted with alcohol due to their semi-polar nature. Current research on optimal extraction methods for human absorption remains limited, with most evidence coming from in vitro studies.

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