Nutmeg Essential Oil Properties

I recently read a magazine article about using nutmeg for a unique twist on traditional holiday scenting.  Combining nutmeg essential oil (EO) with orange EO in a room spray can provide a one-two punch of motivation for the early-morning sleepies.   Nutmeg EO smells rich, warm and spicy, making it especially nice during cooler weather.   If you love autumnal spicy scents, try mixing with vanilla, ginger and / or cinammon EO’s.   In general, I avoid  mixing too many “spicy-kitchen-scented-EO’s” because I have a severe sweet tooth!

The majority of nutmeg comes from Indonesia and Grenada.  Dried nutmeg seeds grow on a tall, thick evergreen tree full of little yellow flowers, and the EO extraction method is through steam distillation from the seeds.

Nutmeg EO is stimulating, which is why it’s great for a “pick-me-up-like-yesterday” treatment.  Some of its properties include anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, analgesic, anti-rheumatic and antispasmodic; several studies indicate nutmeg may have also have an anti-fungal composition.  Believed to invigorate the mind (take heed, morning sleep heads!), it is also thought to relieve pain associated with arthritis and muscle aches.  Additionally, research has indicated it can help with digestive troubles, including nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.  I haven’t personally tried it for digestive troubles because my default for nausea relief is peppermint EO.

Since the molecular structure of all essential oils is so small, the theory is they are absorbed into the circulatory system by inhalation through the mucous membranes.  Once the EO molecules enter the bloodstream, the properties assist the body. 

WORD TO THE WISE on Nutmeg EO:

This EO is not thought to be toxic or irritating, as long as it is properly diluted (e.g., use only 1 drop of nutmeg EO to 2 oz. of base oil or emulsifier).  However, in large dosages, it has the potential to be dangerous because it contains a constintuent called myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, vomiting, epileptic symptoms.  And if you are pregnant, I recommend avioding this oil.

In health
barbara-ann