Nutmeg comes from the Myristica fragrans tree indigenous to the Spice Islands (Moluccas) of Indonesia. Nowadays it is grown in the tropical climate of Malaysia and Grenada. Nutmeg, one of the spices used in trade by the Dutch East India Company, is an integral part of modern day Dutch cooking used to season vegetables and certain meats.
Nutmeg is an interesting botanical for two types of essential oil. The interior of the fruit contains a nut surrounded by a red waxy aril that is used to distill Mace essential oil. The nut without the aril is distilled for Nutmeg essential oil. The dried nut is the source of nutmeg powder for culinary use.
Aromatherapy benefits of Nutmeg essential oil include digestive aid and to reduce inflammation and pain in joints and muscles. It is said to help reduce joint pain in conditions of arthritis and rheumatism. Nutmeg is an oil best used in moderation because several reliable sources indicate exposure to large undiluted amounts has the propensity with some individuals to cause a state of disorientation. Nutmeg is considered a skin irritant undiluted, so use in small amounts of no more than 1% in a blend intended for skin use. To calculate dilutions see our
dilution chart.
Because of its stimulating effects Nutmeg may be an excellent choice for fatigue (physical and metal), is a strong psycho stimulant, perhaps making it a good choice for chronic fatigue syndrome. Some sources say Nutmeg with its stimulant properties is useful with instances of frigidity and impotence and recommend combining with
Vanilla Co2 for an aphrodisiac blend.
Batch specific GC/MS analysis for this essential oil is available by clicking on the green tab above.
Aromatherapy use: Analgesic, antibacterial, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, arthritis, carminative, digestive, fatigue, flatulence, frigidity, gout, impotence, indigestion, mental stimulant, muscular aches, nausea, neuralgia, rheumatism
General use: Oil diffusers, potpourri, bath oil, bath salt, bath and shower gels, spa treatment oils and creams, soap and candle making
Contraindications: Some sources indicate avoid during pregnancy. Use in low dilution 1%, skin irritant undiluted.
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