Nutmeg (jaiphal)

By Kbjawadwar July 17, 2020

Nutmeg (jaiphal)

Nutmeg is a valued kitchen spice that has been used for centuries all over the world. In addition to it is use in flavoring foods and beverages, nutmeg has been used in traditional remedies for stomach and kidney disorders. It is a dark-leaved evergreen tree cultivated for two spices derived from its fruit: nutmeg, from its seed, and mace, from the seed covering. It is also a commercial source of an essential oil and nutmeg butter. Nutmeg is the spice made by grinding the seed of the fragrant nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) tree into powder. The spice has a distinctive pungent fragrance and a warm slightly sweet taste; it is used to flavor many kinds of baked goods, confections, puddings, potatoes, meats, sausages, sauces, vegetables, and such beverages as eggnog. It shows anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic, analgesic, anti-pyretic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-diarrhoeal anti-rheumatic, carminative, stimulant properties. In the ancient Aurvedic tradition, nutmeg is valued for its warming nature, stimulating fragrance, and unique soothing effects.

Nutmeg and mace have similar sensory qualities, with nutmeg having a slightly sweeter and mace a more delicate flavour. Nutmeg is used for flavouring many dishes, and nowadays is mostly found in Western supermarkets in ground or grated form. Whole nutmeg can also be ground at home using a grater specifically designed for nutmeg or a multi-purpose grating tool.

It has different names in different languages such as Hindi(Jaiphal), English(Nutmeg), Bengali(Jaiphal& Javitri), Kannada(Jaikai), Urdu(Jauzbuwa, Jaiphal), Telugu(Jaji Kaya), Tamil(Jatikkai, Sathiccupi, Jadhikai, Jadhiccupi), Malayalam(Jathika), Marathi and Gujarati(Jaipal), Sanskrit(Jatiphala, Malatiphala, Malatisuta)

Vitamins and minerals content of Nutmeg

Vitamins : Folates, Niacin, Pyridoxine, Riboflavin, Thiamin, Vitamin A, Vitamin C.

Minerals : sodium, calcium, copper, iron magnesium, manganese, potassium, zinc, phosphorus

essential oils : terpenes, phenylpropanoids, myristicin, elemicin, safrole and sabenene which comprise 80% of the oils.

- while gas chromatographic analysis showed that α-pinene, β-pinene and sabinene constituted 77.38% and 60.76% in nutmeg and mace oil respectively

phenolic compounds : caffeic, ferulic and protocatechuic acids, lignans/neolignans, and diarylalaknes.

Polyphenols and pigments : catechins, epicatechins, falvonoids, and cyanidins.

Properties and benefits of Nutmeg

Properties:

• Tikta– Bitter

• Katu– pungent

• Teekshna – piercing, strong, penetrative

• Vipaka – Katu – Undergoes pungent taste conversion after digestion

• Veerya– Ushna – Hot potency

• Laghu – light to digest

Benefits:

• Trushnapaha – relieves excess thirst

• Vaktra Kledahara – relieves excessive sliminess and moisture of mouth

• Laghu– light to digest

• Vaktra Daurgandhyahara – relieves bad breath problem

• Artijit – useful in throat pain

• Vata Atisara – Useful in relieving diarrhea associated with bloating and abdominal pain

• Mehaghna – Useful in diabetes and urinary tract infection

• Vrushya – aphrodisiac.

• Deepana – improves digestion strength

• Hrudya – cardiac tonic, good for heart

• Rochana, Ruchikrut – improves taste, appetizer

• Teekshna – Piercing, strong

• Grahi – absorbent, bowel binding, useful in IBS, diarrhoea

• Krumihara – useful in intestinal worm infestation and infected wounds

• Kasahara – relieves cough, cold

• Vamihara – relieves nausea and vomiting

• Shwasahara – useful in asthma, COPD and other respiratory diseases

• Trushnahara – relieves excessive thirst

• Shoshahara – relieves emaciation, dehydration

• Peenasahara – Relieves allergic rhinitis

• Hrudruja – relieves cardiac pain

• Varnakrut – improves skin tone and complexion

• Vishapaha – natural detoxifier, anti toxic

It helps to induce sleep.

Health Benefits Of Jaiphal

1) Anti-inflammatory Effects

The richness Anti-inflammatory property due to potent anti-inflammatory compounds such as monoterpenes, sabinene, terpineol and pinene lowers inflammation. Jaiphal powder comprises essential volatile oils like myristicin, elemicin, eugenol and safrole with powerful anti-inflammatory properties is well-known to ease muscles and joints pain and lessen swelling.

2) Brain Health

The aphrodisiac properties of Jaiphal are proven to stimulate the nerves in the brain and was used extensively as a brain tonic by the Greeks and Romans. The essential oil is effective in alleviating stress by treating depression and anxiety. The adaptogen nature of nutmeg powder works both as a stimulant and a sedative. In times of stress, it can help lower blood pressure. Conversely, it can lift your mood and acts as a tonic and stimulant. With this the aphrodisiac properties enhance libido and improve sexual health and vigour.

3) Improves Digestion

The distinct flavour and aroma of Jaiphal powder hold incredible medicinal properties and effective in treating indigestion, constipation, flatulence, and ulcers. The exceptional fragrance of mace and Jaiphal powder relieves abdominal cramps, pain associated with gas and also treats diarrhoea and nausea.

4) Promotes Dental Health

Bad breath is due to excess buildup of toxins in the system. Jaiphal is believed to clears toxins from the liver and kidneys and cleanse the system. The powerful antibacterial properties present in Jaiphal essential is effective against harmful bacteria that cause dental cavities and gum disease. It is commonly used as an ingredient for Ayurvedic toothpastes and gum pastes. The essential oil eugenol helps in reliving toothaches as well.

5) Healthy Skin

The impressive antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of Jaiphal powder are valuable in uplifting the skin’s natural glow and radiance. The cleansing property removes blackhead treats acne and the pores. The bioactive compounds macelignan in Jaiphal powder aids in slowing down premature ageing and oil is well-known for its skin rejuvenating properties.

Oleoresin preparation

The nutmeg dried seeds powder was extracted using maceration technique (technique 1) with absolute ethanol for 3 days at room temperature. The extraction was carried out using nutmeg powder to solvent ratio of 1:4 (w/v) and, subsequently, the mixture was filtered and concentrated under vacuum using a rotatory evaporator at 40 °C.

Uses of Nutmeg

1) A very tiny piece paste of nutmeg can be used in food in babies above 9 months to treat cold and cough.

2) A paste of nutmeg made with water or milk is applied externally to treat pimple and acne scar.

3) An effective and simple home remedy to

cleanse the skin is to make a fine past of Jaiphal powder by adding a few drops of milk and a teaspoon of Aloe Vera gel, apply over the skin, allow it to stay for 10 -15 minutes and rinse well for an instant glow.

4) it is used as a natural sleep aid, normally taken in warm milk before bed. It stimulates appetite and digestion.

5) It reduces mental exhaustion and fatigue. Put 2 to 3 drops in some carrier oil, and apply it directly on adrenals (mid-back).

6) Apply a few drops on the feet before bedtime for more restful sleep, which we need more of during busy times.

Caution : 1) Excessive use can cause digestive ulcers, psychoactive episodes, acute intoxication or poisoning

Note : 1) Nutmeg is rich in antioxidants, including phenolic compounds, essential oils, and plant pigments, all of which help prevent cellular damage and may protect against chronic diseases.

2) Nutmeg pacifies Vata and Kapha and increases Pitta. ( For information about Tridosha)

3) For thousands of years, Nutmeg has been touted for implementing balance, soothing soreness, brightening the skin, and contributing to healthy, holistic alignment of mind and body.

4) Nutmeg has also historically been used for fragrance and essence. It is sometimes added to perfumes and essential oils for its unique, distinct musk.

5) Nutmeg oleoresins are often used in flavoring soft drinks, canned foods, and cosmetics. Nutmeg oleoresin is used in the preparation of meat and vegetable dishes.

1) Instagram

2) Facebook

3) Pinterest