Do you know herbs and spices fuel hunger and build up Agni in your body? Are you aware of its amazing healing actions in the body? The beauty of Indian cooking is it is both flavoursome and therapeutic. Many of it is grounded on the custom of Ayurveda, which uses the intrinsic insight of nature to reinstate and preserve the health and balance of body, mind and spirit. Here we are see about the astonishing health benefits of Nutmeg. Let’s get started…
HISTORY
Nutmeg emanated in the Banda Islands of Indonesia, which was found by the Portuguese. The word nutmeg is obtained from the Latin nux muscatus, meaning “musky nut.” In India, nutmeg is known as Jaiphal. Nutmeg is frequently mentioned in the oldest scriptures of Hinduism in India, the Vedas, composed between 1500 and 1000 BCE. It is grown in India in the parts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Over 50% of the worlds export of nutmeg and mace is from Indonesia. Nutmeg is called as Jaiphal in Hindi, Jaji kayi in Kannada,telugu and Jathikkai in Tamil,Malayalam.
NUTRITIVE CONTENT
It can influence on your health due to its nutritive content of vitamins, minerals, and organic compounds. These beneficial components include dietary fiber, manganese, thiamin, vitamin B6, folate, magnesium and copper. It is also rich in many vital B-complex vitamins, folic acid, riboflavin, niacin. It has vitamin A, vitamin C and many flavonoid antioxidants like beta-carotene and cryptoxanthin essential for good health.
BENEFITS OF NUTMEG
REDUCES CHOLESTEROL
Nutmeg helps in the elimination of cholesterol through stools. Nutmeg helps to decrease the level of LDL or bad cholesterol and triglycerides. It also helps to increase the level of HDL or good cholesterol. Its antioxidant property reduces the number of free radicals and prevents lipid peroxidation.
GOOD FOR BABIES
Nutmeg helps to manage digestion problems in babies like flatulence, indigestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. It also helps to manage diarrhea in babies because of its absorbent property.
GOOD FOR SKIN
Macelignan in Nutmeg which is rich in antioxidant acts as a skin depigmenting agent. It prevents the synthesis and storage of melanin pigment. It protects the skin against the damage caused by UV radiations.
FOR TREATING CANCER
The chemoprotective and antioxidant properties in the nutmeg helps to cause the death of cancer cells and helps to prevent its spread.
TREATS INDIGESTION
Nutmeg might be beneficial in the management of stomach problems like indigestion. It acts as a good digestive agent and supports digestion. According to the ethno-medical literature, nutmeg seed oil was used for intestinal disorders by Indians.
BRAIN REFRESHER
Nutmeg can effectively refresh the brain and is been used as a brain booster since ancient times. It can reduce tiredness, stress and anxiety. The compound myristicin present in nutmeg helps to keep your brain sharp and improves concentration. Nutmeg also protects your brain against degenerative diseases like Alzheimers.
HOW TO USE?
Nutmeg Powder
– Take1-2 pinch of Nutmeg Powder.
-Take it with honey preferably after meals
Nutmeg face Pack
– Take ½ -1 teaspoon of Nutmeg Powder.
– Mix it with honey or milk
– Apply on the face and neck.
– Wait for 5-7 minutes.
– Wash thoroughly and follow this remedy 1-2 times a week to reduce excess oil on the skin.
It is recommended that you should not exceed 1 to 2mg a day. Studies say that toxic reactions occur when taken at 5gram and above.
TAKE AWAY
Nutmeg is popular for its aromatic value and unique flavour. Nutmeg is a great spice that has several nutritional benefits. Nutmeg has chemicals that can have a calming and relaxing effect on infants. Make sure not to give your child too much as excessive consumption of nutmeg can be dangerous for health. Nutmeg is known to have medicinal properties that can treat stomach ulcers and help in digestion. Its many antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can help keep the skin healthy.
“Calm mind brings inner strength and self-confidence, so that’s very important for good health.”
