Nutmeg and Health
Nutmeg contains a substance called myristicin, a narcotic with very unpleasant toxic side effects if taken in large quantities. Ingestion of small amounts of nutmeg is harmless to the body, however the consumption of 1 to 3 whole nutmegs (in excess of 1 teaspoon ground) can cause wild hallucinations, nausea, vomiting, and/or circulatory collapse within 1 to 6 hours after ingestion. Very large doses can be fatal.Although nutmeg is said to counteract stomach distress from gas, do not try any home remedies without first consulting your physician. Nutmeg is also an astringent and stimulant, as well as a purported aphrodisiac.
More About Nutmeg and Mace with Recipes:
• Nutmeg Selection, Storage, and Cooking Tips• What is mace? Mace Information FAQ
• Nutmeg and Health - Warning!
• Nutmeg and Mace History
• Nutmeg Lore and Legends
• Nutmeg Recipes
• Mace Recipes
Nutmeg Photo © 2009 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, licensed to About.com, Inc.
