Nutmeg: aroma, flavor and surprising benefits for your menu

Originally from India, nutmeg is one of the ingredients that motivated the Portuguese to explore that area. It is derived from the fruit of the nut tree, a plant that can reach 10 to 15 meters in height, with numerous branches around the main trunk.

This spice has been widely used to flavor beers. In ancient Italy, they took advantage of its characteristic aroma and perfumed the streets on celebration days. It was even considered a status symbol, due to its high commercialization price.

According to Vivian Talarico, nutritionist at the L&L Espaço Vida Ao Corpo clinic, nutmeg has a very varied composition, with a general average of: 9.0% water; 6.5% nitrogen compounds; 33% fat; 4.5% essential oils; 27% starch; 14.5% non-nitrogenous extracts; 3% cellulose and 2.5% ash.

With a rounded shape, it has a terracotta color and a little orange, presenting a flavor that reminds us of a mixture of black pepper and cinnamon. In addition, nutmeg is still considered caloric, where each 100 grams contains 525 calories, but has a low glycemic index.

8 surprising benefits of nutmeg

This spice has been highly appreciated since antiquity for its aphrodisiac, aromatic and healing properties. Here are some of the benefits of regular consumption, according to the nutritionist:

• Detox effect: if used as a tonic, nutmeg has the ability to remove toxins from the body, acting on the digestive system, promoting liver health and the dissolution of kidney stones.
• Helps with indigestion: when used in oil, it helps in the elimination of gases, improves stomach pains and stops diarrhea.
• Brain tonic: “It has myristicin in its composition, a substance well known for protecting the brain from degenerative diseases”, reveals Vivian.
• Pain relief: famous in traditional Chinese medicine, its oil is used to fight inflammation, applied to joints and to treat abdominal pain.
• Healthier skin: according to the professional, this spice also helps to maintain healthier and more beautiful skin. You can mix your powder with honey and apply it to the area affected by pimples, helping to remove acne marks.
• Sleep Inducer: A tip to get to sleep more easily is to mix a teaspoon of nutmeg with a glass of milk. This will ensure greater relaxation and sleep induction.
• Prevents cardiovascular problems: supporting the prevention of cardiovascular problems, nutmeg increases blood circulation, stimulating the heart.
• Fights Respiratory Problems: An ingredient commonly found in cough syrups, this spice provides relief from congestion and its oil can help treat asthma.

It is worth remembering that the consumption of this ingredient should be regular, because only then can its beneficial effects be observed. In addition, we can also mention its aromatic function, where it is sprinkled over meals, ensuring more flavor to the dish.

Ways to consume nutmeg

Nutmeg has versatility in its applications, one of the most common being the culinary use. It serves as a seasoning during the preparation of recipes such as white sauce, meats and salads, and in addition, it combines with both sweet and savory recipes, and can even be used to flavor drinks.

It can be found in powder form, already grated or whole, and the most suitable option is to grate the ingredient only at the time of use, so that it can maintain its original properties, since they can lose their effects due to contact with the oxygen. “The common thing is to grate the nutmeg ball at the time of preparation.”, teaches the nutritionist.

Another option available for use is the oil of this spice, found for sale in health food stores, it is used for alternative treatments and in the manufacture of perfumes. It still has the property of relieving colic and stimulates the appetite if consumed when used with aromatherapy.

Its tea version is well known for being an aid in weight loss, being prepared with half a teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg powder with a liter of boiling water. Just leave the mixture muffled for about 10 minutes and strain with a fine cloth, retaining the dust. Attention: your maximum consumption is one cup per day.

Nutmeg and slimming

Well known for helping the weight loss process, Vivian explains that this nut can help you lose a few pounds when accompanied by a balanced diet and physical activity, as it acts on the digestive system, helping to cleanse toxins. According to the professional, consuming about 5 grams of this grated walnut is enough to achieve this feat.

Warnings about using nutmeg

“When consumed in excess, this spice can become a poison, and a maximum of 2 teaspoons per day is recommended”, warns the specialist. Also according to her, through some scientific research it was found that nutmeg has some abortifacient properties when consumed above the recommended level, and can also cause visual, auditory and motor hallucinations.

The benefits provided by this ingredient are numerous, directly affecting the quality of life of those who use it. Not forgetting the unparalleled flavor it provides to food, but, like any food, it should be consumed in moderation.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.