Nutmeg. The use and harm of a known seasoning

In the East, this tree is very much appreciated. Rather, not the tree itself, and its fruits are nutmeg . The benefits and harms of the walnut are known to the ancient peoples very well, especially the Sumerians, because he served them as a fragrant spice 5 thousand years ago. Few of the spices can boast such an interesting past and rich history. Nowadays nutmeg is used not only in cooking, but also in perfumery and folk medicine. Muscat tree is quite high - from 9 to 12 m, lives on average up to 120 years, true, fructifies only half of its life. The fruit of a tree in diameter is from 6 to 9 cm, and its seed is a nutmeg, the size of which is an order of magnitude smaller - 1-2 cm. The annual harvest of one tree totals about 10 thousand nuts.

Use of nutmeg. Composition

The nutmeg is valued for useful substances, available in its composition and conditioned by them healing properties. Walnut is quite caloric, contains a lot of protein, about 3% essential oil (eugenol, linaola), about 40% fatty oil, 20% starch, pigment and pectin substances. Nutmeg is rich in micronutrients such as phosphorus, iron, calcium, magnesium. It also contains vitamin A and part of the B vitamins.

Nutmeg. Benefit and harm

Nutmeg is a kind of "double-edged sword". Excessive use of this spice is extremely dangerous and can lead to death (in medical history there are 2 cases of nut intoxication)! The nut contains the narcotic substance elimitsin, a famous hallucinogen. To eat more than 3 kernels of a nut it is undesirable, and as seasoning it is quite enough to add it on the tip of a knife - the excess leads to an arrhythmia and skips of intracranial pressure.

Nutmeg. The benefits and harm of spices in cooking

Spice is distinguished by its incredible aroma! By inhaling the smell of nutmeg, a hormone of happiness serotonin is produced, so it will not only make the food more tasty, but it will also raise your spirits! Residents of Europe, especially Holland, widely use this spice, adding it to almost all dishes. Nutmeg seasoned with meat, fish, various sauces, except for pasta and mushrooms, with which the walnut does not mix at all. Best seasoning has proven itself in sweets (cakes and other pastries), beverages (cocoa, coffee, mulled wine, tea). Children for a healthy sleep, as well as for any adult to relieve tension, will come with a drink made of milk with the addition of ginger, honey, cinnamon and nutmeg. Such a cocktail will have a beneficial effect on the whole organism and will calm the nervous system.

Nutmeg in medicine

With rational use, nutmeg will bring great benefits to the whole body. Due to its medicinal properties, it is not inferior to ginger and other valuable seasonings. Nutmeg "charges" the body with new strengths and positive energy, strengthens blood vessels, improves the functioning of the heart muscle, has a beneficial effect on the nervous system (helps to relax and cheer). There is a positive effect of spices on the reproductive system of both men and women. Various tinctures and dishes seasoned with nutmeg help with catarrhal diseases, and also increase the body's immunity. The nuts perfectly warm both inside and outside, so therapeutic ointments based on nutmeg help to cope with rheumatism, osteochondrosis. It stimulates the work of the intestines, increases appetite, cleanses the liver, eliminates flatulence, stimulates blood circulation, and has an excellent warming effect. It improves memory, prevents the development of tumors, helps with tuberculosis, is used as an analgesic, and shampoos containing nutmeg strengthen the roots of the hair, making them shiny and healthy.

Those who watch their health will be very useful nutmeg. The benefits and harms of this spice are now familiar to you, be careful and do not overdo it. And take care of your health!