Nutmeg is a spice consisting of the Myristica fragrans seed. The tree from which it is derived from is a tropical, dioecious evergreen tree. The tree is native to Moluccas, also known as the Spice Islands of Indonesia.
Nutmeg has a distinct, pungent fragrant that is combined with its warm, sweet taste. It is often used as a food flavoring for baked goods, egg nog, puddings, meats, sausages, sauces, and vegetables.http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/422816/nutmeg
In addition to its delightful additive to a food dish, nutmeg has been studied for its psychotropic effects on the body. Arab physicians have been using nutmeg as a drug since the first centuries A.D. http://www.lycaeum.org/leda/docs/16539.shtml?ID=16539
Nutmeg the Drug
Since the first centuries A.D., it was believed that nutmeg could cure a variety of illnesses. It was used in aid of digestive organs, including the mouth, stomach, intestines, liver, and spleen.http://www.lycaeum.org/leda/docs/16539.shtml?ID=16539
Later in the 11th century, physicians started to notice the effect it had on other part ailments, including vomiting, pain, and lymphatic diseases. By the 19th century, Arabs were using nutmeg entirely as a hepatic and tonic.http://www.lycaeum.org/leda/docs/16539.shtml?ID=16539
Nutmeg and Your Health
New studies are showing that nutmeg can lower blood pressure, sooth stomach aches, and stop diarrhea because of its detoxifying effects on the body. The nutmeg oil is the most effective part of the plant. Interestingly, the oil has been proven to stimulate the brain and decrease stress levels while promoting mental activity. It's been used as far back as Greek and Roman times for this purpose.http://www.indepthinfo.com/nutmeg/health-effects.shtml
While the medicinal benefits are valid, nutmeg is dangerous in large doses. It can become toxic within your body and cause serious problems that could lead to death. Never take more than 6 tablespoons a day.http://www.indepthinfo.com/nutmeg/health-effects.shtml
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Division: Magnoliophyta
- Class: Magnoliopsida
- Order: Magnoliales
- Family: Myristicaceae
- Genus: Myristica
Spicy Nutmeg Chicken Drumsticks
This is a recipe from the KooktoCook show featuring the use of nutmeg. The cooks are making Spicy Nutmeg Chicken Drumsticks. The video walks you through the process step-by-step with visual instructions followed by closed captioning so you can pause on the video at any point to see what is needed next.
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Fast Facts
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Classification
Spice of the Myristica fragrans seed
