We know it is a feast when the aroma of nutmeg wafts through the air. Nutmeg’s flavor and smell reigns in most regional cuisines across India.
Incidentally, this Indonesian spice not only rules delicacies by enhancing its flavor but also possesses medicinal properties. Including it in your diet and personal care routine is the perfect way to have both healthier skin and body. But before we get into that, let’s get to know the spice a little better.
What is Nutmeg Spice Made From?
The Myristica fragrans tree of Indonesia is one of the few species in the world that produces two different spices – nutmeg from the seed and mace from its skin.
Up until the 19th century, the “Spice Islands” of Indonesia were the sole producers of these spices in the world. Gradually, international trade bloomed and nutmeg reached India.
Today, the spice is mainly grown in Kerala and Tamil Nadu but finds fans across the country.
What is Nutmeg Used For?
While it is the perfect addition to your sweets, delicacies and curries, the spice offers much more than fragrance and heat. Among its many medicinal properties, few are listed here:
The spice is the perfect remedy for diarrhoea, constipation, gas and such other digestive issues. So the next time you are suffering from any of these, add a pinch of ground nutmeg to your soup. The essential oils in the spice catalyse the secretion of digestive fluids, helping your body recover.
Regular consumption (but not overindulgence) of jaiphal (Nutmeg) is known to lower the lipid and lipoprotein in the blood. Both these elements are notorious binders of cholesterol and can make them accumulate in blood vessels. In simple words, nutmeg can help lower cholesterol levels.
The internal cleansing of your system may also reduce bad breath. Bad breath throughout the day is usually the sign of toxicity, especially in your liver and kidneys.
While the spice will undoubtedly help in digestion, it will also cure minor damages or toxins in other organs.
Nutmeg also has sleep-inducing properties, making it the perfect addition to desserts on holidays. If your sleep cycles have been disturbed lately, try adding a pinch of jaiphal to your meals.
Nutmeg oil has anti-inflammatory properties and that makes it an effective joint and muscle pain reliever.
Nutmeg contains calcium, iron, manganese, minerals, potassium etc.- all necessary nutrients for the body that also help regulate blood circulation.
Besides these Medicinal Properties, Jaiphal is also great for Skin and Hair. Here’s how:
Mixing nutmeg powder with raw honey, lemon juice, clove oil and baking soda will make an excellent face pack to exfoliate your skin and deep cleanse the pores. Or just use a nutmeg exfoliator for amazing results.
An addition of nutmeg to your honey face pack can also reduce pigmentation.
It is also a great exfoliant. Cleanse your pores with ease and enjoy buttery soft skin with this nutmeg body wash!
The antibacterial and antifungal properties of the spice also help battle acne. Use a jaiphal face wash for best results.
For amazingly soft hair and to accelerate hair growth, mix some nutmeg powder with coconut oil and honey and use it as a hair pack regularly.
Tired of oily skin? Let nutmeg be your solution. Mix honey with some jaiphal powder and apply as a face pack once every two weeks or so. Give the spice some time and within a couple of months, you will see amazing results.
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