Nutmeg

Natural health supplements sometimes have unexpected side effects or interactions with medication that can lead to adverse reactions that are sometimes life threatening. The following is a list of cautions that you should be aware of before using Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans). These are referred to as drug/herb interactions.

Warning 1 - Contraindications: Pregnancy, lactation or any chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers, ulcerative colitis, spastic colitis, diverticulosis, diverticulitis, or esophageal reflux (reflux esophagitis).

Warning 2 - Antidiarrheals: Nutmeg may increase the effect of antidiarrheal drugs, monitor for constipation.

Warning 3 - MAOIs: Nutmeg may increase the effects of MAOIs too much. Experts recommend avoiding concurrent use.

Warning 4 - Psychotropic agents: Nutmeg may increase the effects of psychotropic medications too much. Experts recommend avoiding concurrent use.

Warning 5 - Drug testing: If you are subject to drug testing you need to know that ingestion of nutmeg can produce amphetamine derivatives through bioconversion of the phenylpropane derivatives in the human body. (See Medical Toxicology of Natural Substances: Foods, Fungi, Medicinal Herbs, Plants, and Venomous Animals by Donald G. Barceloux)

Used as a natural health remedy: Nutmeg is used internally for the following benefits and conditions:

Aphrodisiac
Cramps
Delirium Tremens
Diarrhea
Dysentery
Expectorant
Flatulence
Grand mal and partial seizures
Impotency
Inflammation of the stomach membranes
Insomnia
Nausea
Spermatorrhoea
Stimulates central nervous system
Stimulates muscular movement of intestinal tract
Vomiting

Externally, the nutmeg oil is used for:

Rheumatism
Sciatica
Neuralgia
Disorders of the upper respiratory tract

Side Effects of Nutmeg

There are no side effects on the body, either good or bad, when this herb is used in small amounts to enhance the flavor of food.

Overdosing on nutmeg causes a short period of euphoria and vision changes often followed by one or more of the following serious side effects:

Dry mouth and fever, which may result in dehydration
Facial skin flushes
Heart Palpitations
Psychotic episode, which can cause out-of-control behavior
Fatal cardiac event
Hallucinations
Heart palpitations
Nausea and stomach spasms often followed by vomiting
Shock
Sensation of doom

Symptoms arise about 30 minutes to three hours after eating nutmeg and can continue for up to 2 days. These serious side effects require immediate medical care. It is important you tell the doctor that you have eaten nutmeg and how much.

Nutmeg is a spice used in cooking. Nutmeg is the seed and mace is the fibrous covering of the seed.

As with any herb, a serious allergic reaction is possible. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. These may include a rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Return to the Herb List.

For questions and answers about the side effects of herbs see the Herb Forum

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This consumer advocate website is protected by copyright © 2011 Askdocweb, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This is a layman's report on Nutmeg and is not intended to replace discussions with a health care provider. Do not use the information on this forum as a substitute for your doctor's advice. Always consult your doctor before taking any drug and follow your doctor's directions. Source material: Food and Drug Administration, Medline, Physician's Desk Reference, and the largest community of people in the world, those who are concerned about side effects and healthcare.