Nutmeg is a famous spice used extensively in cuisines globally that renders a mild, sweet and warm fragrance to the dishes. A native spice of Indonesia and it is largely cultivated in Southern India, Malaysia and the Caribbean.
Nutmeg seed or ground spice belongs to species of the genus Myristica fragrans. Fragrant nutmeg or true nutmeg is the only tropical evergreen tree in the world, cultivated for two distinct spices nutmeg and mace- the reddish lacy covering of the seed, with a mild flavour, exuding orange colour into the dishes. It is commercially grown for its essential oil and nutmeg butter.
This fragrant spice is clad by vernacular names such as Jaiphal in Hindi, Jaji kaya in Telugu, Jatikkai in Tamil, Jaikai in Kannada, Javitri in Bengal, Jaipal in Marathi and Gujarat, Jathika in Malayalam. A pinch of this exotic spice powder is used in baking, curries, sweets, beverages like tea and mulled wine. Jaiphal is valued as a potent aphrodisiac, digestive stimulant, essential oil easing the pain associated with headaches and treats common cold, cough and asthma.
Nutritional Facts
Nutmeg spice powder comes with a dense nutrient profile which offers you with indispensable health benefits. The myriad of nutrients present in nutmeg includes fibre, manganese, magnesium, copper, calcium, iron, and vital vitamins thiamin, vitamin B6, folate.
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Besides these, it is overpowered with antioxidants, including plant pigments like cyanidins, essential oils, such as phenylpropanoids and terpenes, and phenolic compounds, including protocatechuic, ferulic, and caffeic acids. The impressive array of nutrients in Jaiphal powder is known to promote digestion, improve brain functions, control blood pressure and stimulate liver health and ease the pain.
Ayurvedic Uses
Jaiphala has been an integral part of Ayurvedic medicine since time immemorial for several beneficial properties which include laghu guna( very light on the gut), trutahara ( relieves thirst), vaktra kledahara(eases excess secretions in the mouth), vaktra daurgandhyahara (combats bad breath), artijit (treats sore throat), prameha (regulates diabetes), vrushya (potent aphrodisiac), hridaya (optimizes cardiac health), shwasahara (promotes respiratory health and treats COPD and asthma), and vishahara (detoxifies the system).
Health Benefits Of Jaiphal
Potent Anti-inflammatory Effects
Inflammation is associated with increased risk of adverse health problems like heart disease, diabetes and arthritis. The richness of potent anti-inflammatory compounds monoterpenes, sabinene, terpineol and pinene lowers inflammation by hindering the action of the inflammatory enzyme. Jaiphal powder comprises essential volatile oils like myristicin, elemicin, eugenol and safrole with powerful anti-inflammatory properties is well-known to ease muscles and joints pain and lessen swelling.
Bolsters Brain Health
The potent aphrodisiac properties of Jaiphal are proven to stimulate the nerves in the brain and was used extensively as a brain tonic by the Greeks and Romans. The essential oil is effective in alleviating stress by treating depression and anxiety. The adaptogen nature of nutmeg powder works both as a stimulant and a sedative. Furthermore, notable aphrodisiac properties enhance libido and improve sexual health and vigour. Also Read: Medhya Rasayana: Benefits Of These Incredible Ayurvedic Herbs To Improve Cognitive Abilities
Improves Digestion
The distinct flavour and aroma of Jaiphal powder hold incredible medicinal properties and effective in treating digestive woes like indigestion, constipation, flatulence, and ulcers. The exceptional fragrance of mace and Jaiphal powder relieves abdominal cramps, pain associated with gas and also treats diarrhoea and nausea.