Nutmeg

sanskrit jaTI phala, mada zauNDa

latin Myristica fragrans

rasa pungent, bitter, astringent

vIrya heating

vipAk pungent

guNa light, oily penetrating

doSa VK-,P+

rasayana to reproductive, nervine, and intestinal tissues

karmas astringent, nervine, sedative, psychotropic, carminative, aphrodisiac, stimulant, expectorant

suggested dose 1/8-1/4 teaspoon

Botanical Description Nutmeg is the seed (about 1 x 3/4 inch) of the tree which is an angiosperm or evergreen.

Habitat and Varieties Indigenous to the Spice Islands of Indonesia, it is also grown in Malaysia, the Caribbean, and the Kerala state of India. M. malabarica is an adulterant sometimes used in India, and is called Jaiphal as well.

Indications:

• vAta mind
• transient insomnia
• restless leg syndrome
• need for muscle relaxation
• angina
• fibromyalgia
• arthritis
• intestinal spasms, gas, bloating
• premature ejaculation
• female infertility

Contra-Indications:

• high pitta
• high doses (>6g) may cause intoxication, leading to hallucinations, headaches, dizziness, and heart palpitations
• inhibits prostaglandin in the expectant mother and may be hallucinogenic in the fetus

For, Combine With:

• Inflammation and Bleeding :  bitters
• Spasms and Gas :  aromatic herbs
• Nervousness and Insomnia :  ashwagandha, brahmi, jatamansi
• Digestive Upset :  amalaki, haritaki, fennel, cardamom
• Diarrhea from Coldness :  haritaki, kustha, bakuchi
• Impotence and Premature Ejaculation : ashwagandha, gokshura, lotus seeds
• Female Infertility and Menstrual Irregularity : shatavari, rose

Dr. Lad uses nutmeg essential oil for marma point massage therapy.
Nutmeg is also considered an Ayurvedic dhupana, or smoke therapy agent.


Sources:

1. Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice, Sebastian Pole, Elsevier Limited, 2006, p. 235-6.
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myristica_fragrans, accessed 5/31/9.