In the East, this tree is very much appreciated. Rather, not the tree itself, but its fruits - nutmeg
. The benefits and harms of nuts are well known to the ancient peoples, especially Sumerians, because he served them as a fragrant spice 5 millennia ago. Few seasonings boast such an interesting past and rich history. Nowadays, nutmeg is used not only in cooking, but also in perfumery and in traditional medicine. The nutmeg tree is quite high - from 9 to 12 m, lives on average up to 120 years, although it bears fruit only half of its life. The fruit of the tree is 6 to 9 cm in diameter, and its seed is nutmeg, the size of which is an order of magnitude smaller - 1-2 cm. The annual harvest of one tree has about 10 thousand nuts.
The benefits of nutmeg. Composition
Nutmeg is appreciated for the beneficial substances in its composition and the healing properties due to them. Walnut is quite high-calorie, contains a lot of protein, about 3% of essential oil (eugenol, linaool), about 40% of fatty oil, 20% of starch, pigment and pectin substances. Nutmeg is rich in trace elements 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 (2 cases of nut intoxication have been recorded in the medical history)! Walnut contains the narcotic substance Elimycin, a known hallucinogen. Eating more than 3 walnut kernels is undesirable, and as seasoning it is enough to add it at the tip of the knife - excess leads to arrhythmia and jumps in intracranial pressure.
Nutmeg. The benefits and harms of spices in cooking
Spice is distinguished by its incredible aroma! When inhaling the smell of nutmeg, the hormone of happiness serotonin is produced, so it will not only make the food even tastier, but also will cheer you up! Residents of Europe, especially Holland, widely use this spice, adding it to almost all dishes. Nutmeg is seasoned with meat, fish, various sauces, with the exception of pasta and mushrooms, with which the nut does not combine at all. Best seasoning has proven itself in sweets (cakes and other pastries), drinks (cocoa, coffee, mulled wine, tea). A healthy milk drink with ginger, honey, cinnamon and nutmeg is suitable for children to have a healthy sleep, as well as any adult to relieve stress. Such a cocktail will have a beneficial effect on the whole body and soothe the nervous system.
Nutmeg in medicine
With rational use, nutmeg will bring considerable benefits to the whole body. In its healing properties, it is not inferior to ginger and other valuable seasonings. Nutmeg “charges” the body with new forces 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 up). There is a positive effect of spice on the reproductive system of both men and women. Various tinctures and dishes, seasoned with nutmeg, help with colds, and also increase the body's immunity. Walnut perfectly warms both inside and out, so medicinal ointments based on nutmeg help to cope with rheumatism, osteochondrosis. It stimulates the intestines, increases appetite, cleanses the liver, eliminates flatulence, stimulates blood circulation, and has an excellent warming effect. Improves memory, prevents the development of tumors, helps with tuberculosis, is used as a painkiller, and shampoos containing nutmeg strengthen hair roots, making them shiny and healthy.
Those who monitor their health will be very useful nutmeg. The benefits and harms of this spice are now familiar to you, be careful not to overdo it. And take care of your health!