Synonyms:- Myristica, Jaiphal.
Biological Source:-Nutmeg consists of dried kemels of seeds of Myristica fragrans Houtt (Family Myristicaceae) The seeds are freed from their anillus and seed-coat. It contains not less than 5% (w/w) volatile oil.
Chemical Constituents:- Nutmeg contains 5 to 15 % of volatile oil, and about 30 of fat. The volatile oil contains about 4 to 8 % myristicin, elemicin and saffrole. The fatty acid constituents of the fixed oil are myristic (about 60 %), palmitic, oleic, lauric and other acids. The fat of nutmeg is also known as nutmeg butter. The other constituents of the drug are protein and starch. Myristicin (methoxy saffrole) is very poisonous and the narcotic effect of the drug is said to be due to myristicin. Geraniol, terpineal, camphene etc are the other constituents of volatile oil of nutmeg
Uses :- It is used as an aromatic, stimulant and carminative. It is used as a flavouring agent, too. The fat (nutmeg butter) also known as Banda soap, is used in soap industries. The fat and volatile oil of nutmeg are used in the treatment of rheumatism.
If taken in high quantity it will act sedatives and hypnotic. It might produce narcotics action and can cause hallucinations.
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