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 mindtransient insomniarestless leg syndromeneed for muscle relaxationanginafibromyalgiaarthritisintestinal spasms, gas, bloatingpremature ejaculationfemale infertility
Contra-Indications:
high pittahigh doses (>6g) may cause intoxication, leading to hallucinations, headaches, dizziness, and heart palpitationsinhibits prostaglandin in the expectant mother and may be hallucinogenic in the fetus
For, Combine With:
Inflammation and Bleeding : bittersSpasms and Gas : aromatic herbsNervousness and Insomnia : ashwagandha, brahmi, jatamansiDigestive Upset : amalaki, haritaki, fennel, cardamomDiarrhea from Coldness : haritaki, kustha, bakuchiImpotence and Premature Ejaculation : ashwagandha, gokshura, lotus seedsFemale 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:
Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice, Sebastian Pole, Elsevier Limited, 2006, p. 235-6.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myristica_fragrans (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myristica_fragrans), accessed 5/31/9.