Nutmeg essential oil is therapeutic

Organic nutmeg essential oil (Nutmeg)

Myristica fragrans

Ingredients: 100% organic and therapeutic nutmeg essential oil

Country of origin: Sri Lanka

Extraction method: Steam distillation

Plant part: nut

Shelf life: 24 months

Storage conditions: in a cool, dark place at a temperature not higher than +25°C (it is preferable to store in the refrigerator if you rarely use it). Avoid direct sunlight and warm/hot surfaces. Do not expose to oxidation and ingress of air.

Profile:

digestive, nervous system, musculoskeletal system

Therapeutic action:

Analgesic, antiemetic, antiseptic (intestinal), antiparasitic, antiviral, aphrodisiac, antidiarrheal, carminative, digestive, neurotonic, sedative, warming

Symptoms for which nutmeg essential oil is recommended for use:

Digestive system: sluggish digestion, diarrhea

Musculoskeletal system: rheumatism, acute or chronic pain, sprains

Nervous system: anxiety, mental fatigue, stress, nervous exhaustion, insomnia from excitement or stress, asthenia

Methods of use:

Diffusion, nasal inhalation, steam inhalation, general massage and massage of reflex points in diluted form, dermal application in diluted form, point application, oral (internal) application, bath, foot and hand baths

Precautions and contraindications:

• Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Do not use essential oil for intravenous or intramuscular injections
• Do not apply essential oil directly to mucous membranes, nose, eyes, ear canal, etc
• Never heat nutmeg essential oil for diffusion. Use only a special diffuser for spraying essential oils

The history of nutmeg

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) originates from the isolated Banda Islands in Indonesia. It is believed that the Arabs were the first to come across the mysterious spice and, trying to hide its whereabouts, began to tell stories and legends about its roots. Nutmeg later entered European trade, and only the wealthy could afford to spend lavishly to experience its earthy, spicy-sweet flavor and aroma. Then, when medieval doctors claimed it could be the only antidote to the Black Death pandemic, prices for the already expensive spice skyrocketed. The battle for nutmeg only intensified in the 1600s, when the Dutch began the infamous "Nutmeg Wars" on the soil of the Banda Islands, which ended only after the British invaded the region and successfully redistributed the seeds to East Asia.

Back then, nutmeg and its essential oil were considered something like mystical spices. It was believed to have aphrodisiac and hypnotic powers, and to bring good luck to those who use it. In China, India, and the Middle East, it has been used to induce sexual arousal, revive marriages, and promote fertility. Because nutmeg contains myristicin, many have claimed that consuming nutmeg can also cause hallucinations, euphoria, and paranoia.

Nutmeg essential oil has also been widely used in traditional medicine and practices of various cultures for many generations. For example, in ancient China it was considered an important remedy for liver and abdominal problems, and Indian Ayurvedic practitioners often used it to relieve symptoms of fever, as well as relieve pain, cough, flatulence, and menstrual problems. In addition, the ancient Egyptians considered nutmeg essential oil a valuable preservative as part of the embalming and mummification process.

Nutmeg essential oil

Nutmeg essential oil is obtained from the dried seeds of the nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrans), which contains approximately 10-15% essential oil. Myristica fragrans can range in height from about 5-20 meters (16-66 feet). One of the interesting features of this evergreen tree is that it is also dioecious, meaning that one plant will have its fragrant flowers of only one sex.

After harvesting, the outer shell is removed and the seeds are usually left to dry in the sun for one to two months before the kernels are extracted and steam distilled. As a result, a thin and colorless (or light yellowish) volatile oil is formed, which emits a mild spicy aroma with a unique shade of nutmeg, slightly heavy and musky.

Nutmeg essential oil has a long-standing reputation for its benefits for a variety of physical and psychological conditions and is believed to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, carminative, tonic, cleansing and pain-relieving properties. Its chemical composition consists mainly of monoterpene hydrocarbons (approximately 80% or more), including sabinene, pinene, and limonene.

Sabinene, which emits a sharp, spicy aroma, is known for its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It is believed to help relieve stomach and muscle pain and aid digestion, particularly by relieving flatulence and bloating. Sabinen is also involved in the relief of skin irritation symptoms such as rashes and itching. Both α-pinene and β-pinene give off a fresh woody aroma and are known for their strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. α-Pinene is also known to stimulate a sense of alertness, help clear the airways, and clear and brighten the skin. Limonene, which gives off a more fruity aroma, is said to help calm the senses as well as combat stress and anxiety, and has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and digestive benefits.

Used in aromatherapy, the warming aroma of nutmeg oil is good for promoting sleep, calming the senses and inducing a sense of relaxation. It can be inhaled at the end of a long, tiring day to reduce fatigue and restore mood and energy levels. For an uplifting, calming and relaxing atmosphere, try diffusing 3 drops of nutmeg oil along with 5 drops of lavender oil and 3 drops of orange or any other citrus oil. To increase concentration and alertness, mix 2-3 drops of nutmeg with 4-5 drops of grapefruit or any other citrus oil.

Nutmeg oil is an excellent addition to massage mixtures. It is said to help soothe sore areas, joint pain, muscle cramps and tension in the abdomen or menstrual cycle. Abdominal massage, in particular, can be helpful for digestive problems such as flatulence, bloating or excessive gas. An added benefit of massaging with nutmeg oil is that it is incredibly relaxing and can help boost libido. A simple recipe is to dilute 5-6 drops of nutmeg oil in 60 ml (2 oz) of a carrier oil of your choice and rub slowly and gently into the skin as often as desired.

You can buy nutmeg essential oil on our website or in the direct Instagram account of Acanthus.