# Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/nutmeg
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Southeast Asian
**Also Known As:** Myristica fragrans, Jaiphal, Jatiphala, Muscade, Muskatnuss, Noz-moscada, Buah pala, Rou dou kou

## Overview

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) contains myristicin and eugenol as primary bioactive compounds that exhibit [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and mild sedative properties. These compounds work through DPPH radical scavenging mechanisms and potential GABA-ergic pathways in the central nervous system.

## Health Benefits

• [Antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) demonstrated through DPPH radical scavenging and ferrous ion chelating properties (preliminary evidence from in-vitro studies)
• Inhibition of lipid peroxidation in essential oil and oleoresins (preliminary evidence from laboratory studies)
• Sedative effects observed through locomotor inhibition in mice, attributed to myristicin content (animal studies only)
• Rich source of volatile oils (16% content) including monoterpenes and phenylpropanoids (chemical analysis only)
• Traditional use in global medicine systems (historical use, no clinical evidence)

## Mechanism of Action

Nutmeg's myristicin and eugenol compounds demonstrate [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) through DPPH radical scavenging and ferrous ion chelation, protecting cells from oxidative damage. The sedative effects appear to involve GABAergic pathways in the central nervous system. Additionally, the essential oil components inhibit lipid peroxidation by interfering with free radical chain reactions in cellular membranes.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for nutmeg's health benefits comes primarily from in-vitro laboratory studies examining antioxidant capacity and [lipid peroxidation](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) inhibition. No large-scale human clinical trials have been conducted to establish therapeutic efficacy or optimal dosing protocols. The sedative effects have been observed in preliminary studies, but sample sizes and methodologies remain limited. Most research focuses on the essential oil and oleoresin extracts rather than whole nutmeg consumption.

## Nutritional Profile

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) seed kernel per 100g (dried, ground): Macronutrients — Calories ~525 kcal; Total fat ~36g (dominated by trimyristin/myristic acid ~60-70% of fatty acid content, oleic acid ~10-15%, palmitic acid ~6-8%); Total carbohydrates ~49g (dietary fiber ~21g, net carbs ~28g); Protein ~6g. Micronutrients — Manganese ~17.4mg (870% DV, highest notable mineral); Copper ~1.0mg (~111% DV); Magnesium ~183mg (~46% DV); Phosphorus ~213mg (~21% DV); Zinc ~2.1mg (~19% DV); Iron ~3.0mg (~17% DV); Calcium ~184mg (~18% DV); Potassium ~350mg (~10% DV); Thiamine (B1) ~0.35mg; Folate ~76mcg; Vitamin B6 ~0.16mg. Bioactive Compounds — Essential oil constituents (5-15% of dry weight): myristicin (1-methoxy-4-allyl-3,4-methylenedioxybenzene) ~1.3-3.2% of whole seed weight, sabinene ~14-50% of essential oil fraction, α-pinene ~15-28% of essential oil, β-pinene ~6-15%, terpinen-4-ol ~2-7%, elemicin ~0.3-1.5%, safrole ~0.5-0.8%; Fixed oil (mace butter/expressed nutmeg oil): ~25-40% of kernel by weight, rich in trimyristin (~75%); Phenolic compounds: isoeugenol, eugenol (~0.2-0.6%); Lignans: nectandrin B, malabaricone C; Tannins and flavonoids present in minor quantities. Bioavailability notes — Fat-soluble aromatic compounds (myristicin, elemicin) show enhanced absorption in lipid-rich matrices; manganese bioavailability may be reduced by fiber and phytate content; typical culinary doses (1-5g per serving) deliver trace-level micronutrients with toxicologically relevant myristicin doses requiring >5g ingestion; essential oil compounds are highly volatile and subject to degradation during prolonged cooking.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges are available for nutmeg extracts, powder, or standardized forms, as human trials have not been reported in the scientific literature. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Nutmeg is generally safe as a culinary spice but can be toxic in large doses (5-30g) causing hallucinations, nausea, and neurological symptoms due to myristicin content. It may interact with sedative medications and should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulant effects. Individuals with liver conditions should use caution as myristicin undergoes hepatic [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management). Allergic reactions are rare but possible in sensitive individuals.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier reveals a complete absence of human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses on nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) for biomedical applications. Limited evidence exists only from animal models, such as locomotor inhibition in mice attributed to myristicin in nutmeg seed oil, but human data and PubMed PMIDs for clinical studies are not available.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Nutmeg has been recognized in global traditional medicine systems as a spice and herb. However, specific historical contexts, durations of use, or traditional therapeutic indications are not detailed in the available research.

## Synergistic Combinations

Cinnamon, Clove, Ginger, Turmeric, Black Pepper

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the active compound in nutmeg responsible for its effects?

Myristicin is the primary active compound in nutmeg, comprising 4-8% of the essential oil. Eugenol and safrole are also present in smaller concentrations and contribute to nutmeg's biological activities.

### How much nutmeg is safe to consume daily?

Culinary amounts (1-2g or about 1/2 teaspoon) are considered safe for daily use. Doses above 5g can cause toxicity symptoms, while 30g or more can be dangerous and potentially fatal.

### Can nutmeg help with sleep problems?

Preliminary studies suggest nutmeg may have mild sedative properties through GABAergic pathways. However, human clinical trials are lacking, and the effective dose may approach toxic levels, making it unsuitable as a sleep aid.

### Does nutmeg interact with blood thinning medications?

Nutmeg may enhance the effects of anticoagulant medications due to its eugenol content, which has mild antiplatelet properties. Patients on warfarin or similar medications should consult healthcare providers before using medicinal amounts.

### What are the signs of nutmeg poisoning?

Nutmeg toxicity symptoms include nausea, dizziness, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, and disorientation, typically occurring 3-6 hours after ingestion. Severe cases may involve seizures and require immediate medical attention.

### Is nutmeg safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Nutmeg should be avoided during pregnancy in supplemental or concentrated forms, as myristicin—its primary active compound—may have uterotonic properties that could stimulate uterine contractions. While culinary amounts of nutmeg are generally considered safe, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before taking nutmeg supplements or consuming unusually large quantities.

### What is the most effective form of nutmeg for maximum antioxidant benefits?

Nutmeg essential oil and oleoresins demonstrate the highest antioxidant activity in laboratory studies, showing superior lipid peroxidation inhibition compared to whole nutmeg powder. However, whole nutmeg and standardized extracts are safer for oral supplementation, as essential oils are highly concentrated and carry greater toxicity risks at doses needed for therapeutic effect.

### How does the strength of scientific evidence for nutmeg's health effects compare to other herbal supplements?

Currently, most evidence for nutmeg's benefits comes from in-vitro (test tube) and animal studies rather than human clinical trials, placing it in the preliminary evidence category alongside many herbal ingredients. The sedative and antioxidant effects show promise in laboratory settings, but larger, well-designed human studies are needed to establish efficacy and optimal dosing for supplement use.

---

*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
*License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*