Atipalam in Tamil / Jaiphal in Hindi
Nutmeg or Jaiphal (Myristica fragrans) comes from a dark-leaved evergreen tree cultivated for two spices derived from its fruit: nutmeg, from its seed, and mace, from the seed covering or arillus.
Nutmeg is not a nut, but the kernel of an apricot-
Nutrition Information
Nutmeg is a good source of minerals like copper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, zinc and magnesium.
It is also rich in many vital B-complex vitamins, including vitamin-C, folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin-A & many flavonoids like beta-carotene & cryptoxanthin that are essential for health.
Nutmeg is very low in cholesterol and sodium. It is also a good source of dietary fibre.
One serving (1 teaspoon or 2.2 grams) of ground nutmeg provides around 12 calories, according to USDA data. Calories come from carbohydrate (1.08 grams), protein (0.13 grams), and fat (0.8 grams).
Benefits
- Nutmeg is rich in minerals like calcium, potassium, manganese, and iron, all of which help in regulating blood pressure and enhance the circulation of blood. These minerals have the effect of reducing stress, and further, relax the blood vessels and aid in the regulation of blood pressure.
- A lot of Ayurvedic-based medicines use nutmeg as a part of the medication in treating depression and anxiety. Nutmeg also has sleep-inducing properties.
- Nutmeg is rich in myrislignan, which can help treat liver disorders and injuries. Research suggests that the extracts found in nutmeg can help treat hepatitis inflammations. Nutmeg, as mentioned before, has anti-inflammatory properties as well, and can help treat an inflamed liver.
- Nutmeg contains an abundance of antioxidants, including plant pigments like cyanidins, essential oils, such as phenylpropanoids and terpenes, and phenolic compounds, including protocatechuic, ferulic, and caffeic acids. These neutralize free radicals, preventing cellular damage and keeping your free radical levels in check.
- It has anti-inflammatory properties and that makes it an effective joint and muscle pain reliever.
How to use
- Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) is a spice that is commonly used in baked goods, holiday treats, ethnic cuisine, and beverages.
- While nutmeg is commonly used in cooking and baking, some also use the spice or its essential oil to gain a nutmeg high which is dangerous, hence inadvisable.
- The leaves and other parts of the tree are used in extracting essential oil as well as nutmeg butter.
- The oils are used as condiments and carminatives and to scent soaps and perfumes.
- The essential oil is also used in the manufacturing of toothpaste and cough syrups.
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