BACKGROUND:Nutmeg is made from the seed of a large evergreen tree that is native to the Maluccas, or Spice Islands, of Indonesia. It is now cultivated in several countries, including the Caribbean ones. It is central to the economy of Grenada, which designed its flag around the colours of nutmeg and included an image of the fruit in a corner of its flag.
Nutmeg and mace are different spices made from the same fruit, which is believed to be the only example of a tropical fruit used to made two spices. The fruit is also processed in different ways to make nutmeg butter and essential oils.
In addition to its use as a kitchen spice, nutmeg is commonly added to traditional beverages such as mulled wine or eggnog. Nutmeg capsules are available as natural remedies for various gastrointestinal ailments. Most commonly, it is recommended for nausea, stomach spasms, diarrhoea and flatulence. For all of these uses, relatively small amounts are taken. In larger quantities, nutmeg is said to be a hallucinogen, which has led to much interest both from researchers and those seeking a “legal high”.
EVIDENCE FROM STUDIES
Investigations into nutmeg have identified numerous components with a variety of biological effects, some contradictory. In laboratory tests, some compounds stimulate the central nervous system (CNS), while others have sedative effects. Some components have anticonvulsant effects, while others cause convulsant activity. The gastrointestinal effects are believed to arise from components that stimulate the CNS and other parts of the nervous system. This is also the cause of the many side effects. Clinical studies have not investigated the effectiveness or safety of nutmeg for any gastrointestinal problem.
Use of nutmeg to cause hallucinations has been recorded since the Middle Ages. As a cheap and readily available recreational drug, its use appears to remain popular, although it usually receives attention only after tragic adverse reactions, which have included fatal overdoses. In spite of its reputation, much remains unknown about its psychoactive properties. Different extracts of nutmeg produce different effects in laboratory tests.
PROBLEMATIC ASPECTS
In the amounts used in foods and beverages, nutmeg is safe. However, larger amounts lead to a variety of adverse effects. These arise because the components of nutmeg interact with different parts of the nervous system leading to different effects. People vary unpredictably in their responses and to the dose they can safely tolerate. A few teaspoonfuls typically produce dry mouth, flushed skin and faster heartbeat. A few grammes can cause nausea, pressure in the chest, sweating, dizziness, blurred vision, anxiety and panic attacks. Larger doses can lead to hallucinations, hyperactivity, incoherent speech, seizures and occasionally have led to coma and even death. Pregnant women who have taken several grammes of nutmeg have had miscarriages.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Nutmeg used as a spice in dishes and drinks is completely safe. However, containers of nutmeg should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
No clinical evidence exists to support nutmeg’s ability to relieve stomach or intestinal problems. More effective, safe alternatives are readily available.
As a recreational drug, nutmeg is unpleasant and dangerous. Hallucinogenic effects require large amounts which taste bad and usually cause adverse effects long before they give the sought-after euphoria. In spite of these common problems, nutmeg continues to be misused, especially by teenagers. Anyone suspected of having a bad reaction to nutmeg should be brought immediately for medical treatment.
Dónal O’Mathúna has a PhD in pharmacy, researching herbal remedies, and an MA in bioethics, and is a senior lecturer in the School of Nursing, Dublin City University
