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| Type | Seed and ground spice |
|---|---|
Nutmeg is the seed, or the ground spice derived from that seed, of several tree species of the genus Myristica;[1] fragrant nutmeg or true nutmeg (M. fragrans) 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 nutmeg essential oil and nutmeg butter. Indonesia is the main producer of nutmeg and mace, and the true nutmeg tree is native to its islands.
If consumed in amounts exceeding its typical use as a spice, nutmeg powder may produce allergic reactions, cause contact dermatitis, or have psychoactive effects.[2] Although used in traditional medicine for treating various disorders, nutmeg has no scientifically confirmed medicinal value.[2]
Conifers of the genus Torreya, commonly known as the nutmeg yews, have edible seeds of similar appearance, but are not closely related to M. fragrans, and are not used as a spice.
- ^ "Nutmeg and derivatives (Review)". Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. September 1994. Archived from the original on 30 October 2018. Retrieved 29 October 2018.
- ^ a b "Nutmeg". Drugs.com. 2009. Archived from the original on 2020-12-16. Retrieved 2017-05-04.