By More than just a taste enhancer, nutmeg is a toasty, fragrant spice that is frequently used in kitchens all around the world. Nutmeg, which comes from the seeds of the Myristica fragrans tree, has long been valued for its culinary qualities as well as its therapeutic, medicinal, and cosmetic properties.
This spice is a natural treatment with potent characteristics that can improve digestion and skin brightness. Let’s examine the incredible health advantages of nutmeg and how you may utilize it in your daily life for skin and wellness.
What is Nutmeg ?
Nutmeg is a kind of spice that originates from the inner seed of nutmeg fruit. This fruit is dried and ground into powder, leading way to nutmeg spice. The fruit is native to spice islands of Indonesia and is widely used in the traditional medicinal system of Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.
It contains some bioactive compounds like myristicin, eugenol and safrole which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is often consumed in powdered form and is even applied topically for skincare purposes.
Nutritional Profile of Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a powerhouse of nutrients, and hence it is a rich source of :
- Manganese: It enhances your bone health while working on increasing the metabolism as well.
- Vitamin B6: It uplifts mood while working excellently on improving immunity as well.
- Antioxidants: Protect your health against any kind of oxidative damage in the body.
- Copper: Promotes brain and nervous system health.
The Ayurvedic perspective of Nutmeg
Nutmeg is termed as Jaiphal in basic ayurvedic language. For the spice is known for its warming and grounding qualities, it is used to balance Vata and Kapha doshas. It’s an effective remedy for improving digestion, skin problems while is famous for curing mental health concerns.
Nutmeg Benefits for Overall Health
Enhance the Functioning of The Brain
Nutmeg brilliantly supports the cognition, memory, and mood of an individual and hence it is known as the brain tonic. It supports all these brain functions because of the presence of myristicin. Also it is believed to boost neurotransmitter activities that can help you to reduce stress and anxiety.
Improves the Quality of Sleep
You can consider nutmeg as a natural remedy for people suffering from insomnia. It calming properties have mild sedatives that helps sleep better.
Pro Tip: A dash of nutmeg in warm milk before bedtime is a guaranteed home remedy for relaxation and better sleep.
Boosts Digestive Health
Nutmeg has numerous digestive benefits as well; it eases problems like bloating, gas and constipation. Further, nutmeg cleanses the gut properly and soothes any kind of indigestion in the body as well.
Pro Tip: A pinch of nutmeg powder in warm water or soup endorses smooth digestion.
Supports Oral Health
Nutmeg is also enhanced with the goodness of anti bacterial properties which prevent bad breath and even reduce any gum inflammation. It is one of the famous ingredients of natural toothpastes or mouth rinses as well.
Helps in Regulating Blood Pressure and Circulation
Nutmeg is extremely rich in potassium, calcium, and iron. The presence of all such minerals regulates blood pressure and improves the circulation of blood. They also help support heart function while reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases as well.
Some Dazzling Nutmeg Uses for Skin
Face Away Acne Scars and Dark Spots on Skin
A very less known fact about nutmeg is that it is an excellent exfoliant, it helps in fading pigmentation, scars, and even blemishes on the skin. If you regularly exfoliate your skin with nutmeg, it will definitely improve the texture as well as the skin tone.
Pro tip: To lighten acne scars at home, combine both nutmeg powder along with lemon juice and apply its mixture on affected areas.
Soothes Dry and Flaky Skin
Nutmeg’s has some super nourishing properties which help in skin hydration and soften it as well. It can be mixed with milk or curd to soothe dry and patchy skin while also balance the moisture level.
Treats Acne and Pimples
One of the most effective nutmeg uses for skin is acne treatment. The anti bacterial properties in nutmeg help kill acne causing bacteria and reduce the inflammation nearby or in the skin. It also helps in fading away of breakout as well.
DIY Some Effective Nutmeg Face Packs For Acne Treatment
Take 1 teaspoon of nutmeg powder and mix it with honey or milk. Apply this paste on the acne prone areas and leave it for 15 minutes, and rinse with lukewarm water.
Anti-Aging Benefits
Free radicals which are responsible for accelerating aging if often neutralized by nutmeg. Being rich in antioxidants it reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin as well. Regular consumption or application nutmeg powder keeps the skin youthful and firm.
DIY nutmeg anti-aging pack
Add some nutmeg powder in a small bowl and mix it with aloe vera gel and rose water. You can apply this cream everyday before bedtime to get a fresh, toned, and wrinkle free skin.
Controls excess oil
Nutmeg balances the sebum production in the skin and hence, can be a perfect home remedy for those struggling with problems of oily skin. It has some natural stringent properties which helps tighten the pores and reduce excess oil in the skin.
How to Use Nutmeg in Skincare Routine
Here are some DIY face masks made up of nutmeg, which can provide youwith some exceptional skin benefits:
Nutmeg and Yogurt Scrub
This scrub is used for exfoliation and the reduction of dark spots on the skin. Apply it in a circular motion for continuous minutes and rinse off. It is a great remedy for reducing tan and improving the texture of the skin. The ingredients include:
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp yogurt
- A pinch of turmeric
Nutmeg and Honey Mask
This is an excellent face mask if you are craving acne free, glowing and nourished skin. The ingredients include :
- 1 tsp nutmeg powder
- 1 tbsp honey
Mix both the ingredients and apply them on clean skin. Leave for 15-20 minutes and rinse it.
Pro tip: Use it twice a week for best results
Nutmeg Toner
Use a nutmeg toner for tightening the pores. The recipe includes :
- Boiling of 1 cup of water with a pinch of nutmeg. Cool and use it as a facial spray.
Nutmeg Is Small But Mighty
Nutmeg, a little seed with amazing health and beauty advantages, is a spice that is very potent. Its many uses make it an essential addition to any kitchen or skincare shelf, whether you’re using it in a face mask or drinking it in warm milk.
The impressive list of nutmeg benefits, which are supported by both tradition and science, includes anti-aging properties, better digestion, better sleep, and glowing skin. So go ahead and use nutmeg to nourish your skin and body in a natural and efficient way.
