Nutmeg is the inner seed of the Myristica fragrans tree, which is in the evergreen family. The tree is native to the Banda Islands, in Indonesia, and is an easy-to-grow crop. This crop also is cultivated in the Caribbean, especially in Grenada, and on the Penang island in Malaysia.

The Myristica fragrans tree is grown for the harvest of two distinct spices, both from the fruit of the tree: nutmeg, which we all know and many use for its culinary taste and benefits, and mace, from the outer covering of the seed. 

Nutmeg is made by grinding the inner seed of the fruit, producing a wonderful aromatic smell, and it adds a mildly sweet taste to culinary items. Although many of us sprinkle it in our eggnog during the holidays, it is also commonly used on vegetables, meat dishes, pasta, and beverages. It also plays well with other spices like cardamon, cloves, cinnamon, and turmeric. 

Mace has a flavor that is similar to nutmeg, though milder, and it can be used in many of the same foods. Throughout history, Mace has been used as a seasoning, a food preservative, and in foods that are being pickled. The nutmeg seed is ground, but with mace, the red-colored arils are picked from the seed and dried for up to two weeks, where it changes color a few times.

While mace and nutmeg are used around the world as culinary spices, health benefits have also been discovered. Nutmeg is known to have antioxidant properties, it may support a healthy inflammatory response, and it may have noticeable antibacterial properties and support. You may also read about its history for digestive support, and as an aid for a better night’s rest.

Researchers in Food Research International report: “The phytochemicals in nutmeg are linked to numerous health-promoting effects, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-adipogenic, anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, immune-stimulating, growth-promoting, antidiabetic, autophagy-inhibitory, and mosquito-repellent properties.”

Although a wonderful spice, high doses can possibly cause nausea and dry mouth, and is not recommended for pregnancy or during breast feeding.