Nutmeg and nutmeg oil have a variety of health benefits for the body, inside and out! The Myristica fragrans is an evergreen tree that grows tropical fruit. Inside this fruit is an egg shaped seed, nutmeg, with a dried reddish covering called mace. Nutmeg is usually used in ground, powdered or grated form. Nutmeg oil is often used as its replacement.
Nutmeg oil is a volatile essential oil with a colorless to light yellow tint and thin consistency. It’s sharp, spicy, woody aroma is invigorating. It’s found in a variety of commercial and homemade products: soaps, lotions, creams, candles, cosmetics, hair dyes, toothpaste, mouthwash and more.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Nutmeg has antioxidants benefits! Get rid of toxins! The body builds up toxins, over time, for a variety of reasons including: diet, stress, pollutants and medications. Prevent and dissolve kidney stones! Nutmeg is, especially, helpful by cleaning the liver and kidney of toxins.
Are you hungry? Boost your appetite by using nutmeg as a spice in tasty dishes or beverages. Use in potatoes, soups, sauces, eggnog, apple cider, syrups, in baled goods or as an addition to vegetables.
Get rid of bad breath! Nutmeg has antiseptic properties to eliminate bacteria causing bad breath. It’s found in toothpaste and mouthwash. Additionally, it has analgesic, (pain killing), properties. It’s often used to ease toothaches or gum ailments.
Do you suffer with insomnia? Use nutmeg as a sleep aid. Mix a pinch of nutmeg into a cup of milk to induce relaxation and sleep. You can begin having that restful night you so deserve.
SKIN CARE BENEFITS
Nutmeg is not, generally, recommended for skin care but it does have its benefits and is still used a variety of ways. It’s antiseptic, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic, all with antioxidants! Get rid of blackheads, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, fade acne scars, reduce swelling and inflammation, ease painful muscles and joints! When nutmeg oil is used in soaps, creams, lotions, or scrubs it can help to improve the appearance of skin while offering pain relief.
CAUTION! Nutmeg or nutmeg oil can skin irritating for some, especially those with sensitive skin. Adverse reactions of allergies, contact dermatitis and asthma have been reported. Avoid using if you have nut allergies. Avoid using if you’re pregnant. Never use in large doses since toxic symptoms, like nausea or tachycardia can occur. Those with psychiatric condition should avoid excessive use. Nutmeg has been known for its psychoactive properties of producing fear, anxiety and hallucinations, however there is still some lacking evidence in these clinical studies.
MAKING HOMEMADE SOAP
Nutmeg essential oil is used for making homemade soap. It doesn’t take much, only a drop or two in your homemade soap recipe. This oil blends well with other essential oils including: lavender, rosemary, orange, black pepper, clary sage, eucalyptus, geranium, ginger, yiang yiang or other spice oils. This homemade soap will have invigorating properties with a touch of spicy, woody, tones.
CAUTION! Essential oils contain bioactive ingredients. This means they contain natural chemicals that interact with biological systems. They’re potent chemicals and should be used with care! Never use large amounts of essential oils externally, or internally. Never use them straight. They must always be diluted in carrier oil, or soap, lotion, or other buffering agent. Finally, never use them without knowing what their bioactive compounds are known to do.
