Nutmeg

Myristica fragrans

Nutmeg essential oil

Nutmeg essential oil (Myristica fragrans) is rich in sabinene (~50%), alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, myristicin, and eugenol, with sabinene and the phenylpropanoid myristicin as its most characteristic compounds. At therapeutic doses the oil demonstrates antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, while myristicin warrants caution at high doses due to its psychoactive properties and role as an MAO inhibitor.[1] A broad pharmacological profile — including anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsant effects — has been confirmed in multiple experimental models.[1]

Also Known As
Mace, Nutmeg Tree
Family
Spice
Perfumery Note
Middle
Intensity
Strong
Extraction
Steam Distillation
Plant Parts
Seeds
Origins
Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka
Effect
Focus & Clarity, Warming & Comforting
Aroma
Spicy, Warm, Sweet
Applications
Aromatherapy, Culinary, Massage, Medicinal
Price
$$$$A common spice with a decent yield, but the oil is highly potent and requires precise distillation
Blend

References

  1. [1]Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) essential oil: A review on its composition, biological, and pharmacological activities — Ashokkumar K et al. Phytotherapy Research, 2022