| Nutmeg (Myristica
fragrans)
Description...
As early as the seventh
century, Arabs used nutmeg for digestive disorders, kidney problems, and lymphatic
ailments. Today it is used principally as a spice in cooking and as a treatment for
diarrhoea, insomnia, indigestion, and flatulence.
It relaxes muscles, sedates
the body, and helps remove gas from the digestive tract. Early reports described
hallucinogenic reactions to ingesting whole seeds, but these have not been substantiated.
Nutmeg is native to a
province of Indonesia once known as the Spice Islands, where it is still used as a
culinary seasoning and medicinal herb. It comes from an evergreen tree that produces a
fruit called the nutmeg apple. Nutmeg comes from the nut, which is removed and dried.
How It May Benefit
You...
diarrhoea,
indigestion,
loss of appetite,
colic,
flatulence,
insomnia.
Caution...
Beware, nutmeg has narcotic
properties.
WARNING:
Herbs should only be used under the supervision of an experienced
herbalist or naturopath experienced in herbs.
Availability...
Nutmeg is available as a
powder and tincture.
|
|
