Short Answer:
Yes, Nutmeg is Paleo!
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is the egg-shaped seed kernel of the nutmeg fruit belonging to the Myristicaceae family that is native in islands near Indonesia. It is a globally used spice common in powdered form and is known for its aromatic, culinary and medicinal properties. Nutmeg has a delicate, slightly sweet, warm flavor with a fragrant scent and is used both in Asian and Western cuisines. Highly prized for its antiquity, nutmeg is also valued because of the essential oils derived from its leaves and tree that are beneficial to health.
Like other spices, nutmeg also gives fragrant aroma to dishes. It is common in sweet Indian dishes, potato recipes, soups, sauces and baked goods. Apart from its culinary uses, nutmeg is also used in Chinese and Indian cultures as aphrodisiac and herbal medicine.
Nutritional Value of Nutmeg
While sparingly used in dishes, regular use of nutmeg in meals can have an impact to health because of its vitamins, minerals and organic compounds. These nutritive components include vitamin B6, folate, copper, magnesium, calcium, potassium, manganese, iron, zinc and dietary fiber.
Nutmeg also contains antioxidants, phytochemicals and essential oils that can soothe and stimulate the brain and relieve join and muscle pains. The essential oils are safrole, pinene, camphene, dipentene, cineole, linalool, sabinene, safrole and terpeniol. They have antifungal and antifungal properties.
Health Benefits of Nutmeg
Nutmeg like other spices is associated with health benefits including but not limited to its ability to relieve pain, soothe indigestion, boost cognitive function, detoxification.
Pain Reliever
Nutmeg has a compound similar to menthol that can ease pain. It can relieve muscular and joint pains associated with arthritis. In Chinese medicine, nutmeg is used to treat inflammation.
Digestive Support
The dietary fiber content of nutmeg can stimulate digestive process by inducing secretion of gastric juices. Fiber can also add bulk to bowel movement, hence, avoiding constipation. The oil of nutmeg can also relieve stomach pains by removing excess gas in the intestines.
Cognitive Function
Nutmeg contains essential oils myristicin and macelignan which have been proven to boost cognitive function and lower risk of degenerative diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Detoxification
Nutmeg acts as a tonic that can help eliminate toxins in the body by cleaning out these toxins and even dissolve kidney stones. It can also increase overall functions of kidney and liver.
Blood Circulation & Health
Nutmeg contains potassium which acts as a vasodilator that relaxes the blood vessels and regulates blood pressure. Manganese is also present in nutmeg which can prevent blood clotting.
Oral Health
The antibacterial properties of nutmeg can treat halitosis by getting rid of bacteria build up in the mouth. It also treats gum and teeth problems. In fact, nutmeg can be found in some toothpaste and mouthwashes especially those organic or herbal products.
Skin Health
Nutmeg has the ability to treat skin problems like blackheads and acne. It can boost skin health and will help achieve a smooth skin. Nutmeg can also reduce skin inflammation and irritation and reduce marks of acne, chicken pox and boils.
Insomnia
Nutmeg has been used as a remedy for insomnia or difficulty to sleep. Because of its high magnesium content, it reduces nerve tension and stimulates production of serotonin that helps the body relax and sleep.
Other Names for Nutmeg
pala
All you ever wanted to know about Nutmeg and Paleo
Robb Wolf. The Paleo Table: 8 herbs & spices you should get to know
http://robbwolf.com/2010/11/29/the-paleo-table-8-herbs-spices-you-should-get-to-know/
Paleo Porn. Is Nutmeg Paleo?
https://paleoporn.com/q/is-nutmeg-paleo/
Mercola. Food Facts. What Is Nutmeg Good For?
http://foodfacts.mercola.com/nutmeg.html
Organic Facts. Health Benefits of Nutmeg
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/nutmeg.html
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photo credit: David Kracht the nutmeg