Nutmeg: its benefits and uses
Nutmeg
Like oregano, thyme and bay leaves, nutmeg is one of the essential spices in our kitchens. Over the years, it has also become a key product in phytotherapy. This is due in particular to its formulation, which is rich in active compounds.
About nutmeg
Nutmeg is the seed kernel of the nutmeg tree. Brown in color, the nut takes the form of an ovoid ball surrounded by an aril. This forms a vast network of bright red filaments, commonly known as “mace”.
The nutmeg tree is a dioecious tree native to Indonesia, more precisely to the Moluccan archipelago. Growing up to 12 meters tall, the tree is distinguished by its extraordinary longevity. A healthy individual can live up to 100 years. The nutmeg tree has evergreen leaves up to 12 cm long. They are elongated, alternate and short-stalked.
Nutmeg flowers are small and particularly fragrant. Arranged on separate stems, the flowers are whitish to pale yellow, depending on whether they are male or female. It’s usually the female flowers that produce the fruit. Large and fleshy, the fruits are similar in size to apricots. They open naturally when ripe.
What do you need to know about the habitat and cultivation of the nutmeg tree?
Made popular by its nuts, the nutmeg tree is now grown in most tropical countries. It is found in the West Indies, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. In countries with a hot, humid tropical climate, nutmeg can be grown at any time of year. In Europe, nutmeg is best grown in rich, cool, well-drained soil. It is also advisable to plant it in a slightly shady spot, sheltered from the wind.
The nutmeg tree is not a hardy plant. It cannot withstand drought, sea spray or atmospheric pollution. Nor can it withstand temperatures below 5°C. To protect the tree from frost, we even recommend growing it in pots. This makes it easier to bring the pot inside during winter. However, this method of cultivation is not conducive to fruiting.
Preparing and using nutmeg in phytotherapy and cooking
To obtain the nut, you have to wait for the fruit to fall to the ground. They are collected, then set out to dry so that they open naturally. Once the fruit has opened, the mace is carefully removed and the nutmeg is left to dry. The whole process can take up to 6 weeks in all. The reason we go to such lengths to extract it is that nutmeg benefits from a natural composition rich in active compounds.
Its active ingredients include phytosterols, triterpene saponosides and lineages, including neolignans. Nutmeg also contains up to 15% aromatic essence. It is all these active elements that give nutmegs their properties. They act synergistically to promote digestion and comfort in the event of flatulence. They also help maintain the flow of digestive juices.
In herbal medicine, nutmeg is available in a variety of formats. You can buy them in capsule form, as essential oils, or as herbal tea powder. To reap the benefits of nutmeg, it is always advisable to follow the correct dosage. We also encourage you to respect the duration of the cure. A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle also contribute to optimizing your daily health and well-being.
In addition, the nutmeg tree provides two types of spices with specific characteristics. On the one hand, there’s mace or walnut husk, with its fine, delicate and slightly bitter flavor. It is used in Garam masala, a blend of roasted and ground spices from India. On the other hand, we have nutmeg, which seduces with its sweet taste and penetrating musky aroma. Well-known and widely present in our kitchens, it is one of the star ingredients of the essential 4-spice and colombo. Nutmeg is a wonderful accompaniment to duck and lamb dishes. It also goes well with vegetables such as potatoes, and adds character to cream-based desserts.
