Nutmeg Benefits for Eye Health in Detail 2026

Nutmeg is a spice native to the Maluku Islands in the South Pacific, also known as the “Spice Islands.” It is famous for its flavor, aroma, and medicinal properties, and is lightweight and easy to transport.

Nutmeg offers many benefits for the skin: it helps maintain a healthy, glowing complexion and can help reduce dark circles under the eyes. It is also rich in antioxidants that support good vision. These antioxidants may help reduce the risk of eye problems such as cataracts and others. Still, it is strongly recommended to visit the Eye Center at Al Batal Specialized Complex in Saudi Arabia for a comprehensive eye exam by top ophthalmologists and specialists.

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What Is Nutmeg?

The nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrans) grows among pristine coral reefs and white sands in its native island environment. It can reach a height of up to 66 feet and produces a peach‑like fruit known as the nutmeg apple. The fruit itself is often discarded, although in some parts of Indonesia it is used to make jams and sweets.

The nutmeg we know is the seed (the “nut”) inside this fruit. After drying, the seed yields two distinct spices: nutmeg (the inner kernel) and mace (the lacy red aril surrounding the seed).

Drug Interactions with Nutmeg

Sedative medications (central nervous system depressants) can interact with nutmeg and mace. Nutmeg itself may cause drowsiness and slow breathing. Some medications classified as sedatives already cause sleepiness and respiratory depression. Taking nutmeg together with these drugs may increase the risk of breathing difficulties and/or excessive drowsiness.

Side Effects and Risks of Nutmeg

When consumed in large amounts, nutmeg has been associated with several toxic effects, including tachycardia (rapid heart rate), nausea, vomiting, agitation, and hallucinations. These adverse effects are mainly attributed to myristicin, the compound that makes up a large proportion of nutmeg’s volatile oil.

High doses of nutmeg may also pose risks to kidney health. Since the kidneys play a vital role in the body, significant damage could, in severe cases, lead to conditions that might require interventions such as kidney transplantation.

The Health Benefits of Nutmeg

Nutmeg is a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect the body from signs of aging and serious conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and liver disease. It may provide several health benefits. Nutmeg oil is widely used in dental care products because the spice has antibacterial properties that are particularly effective against oral pathogens responsible for gum disease and bad breath.

One experimental study found that nutmeg may act as a potential antidepressant in male rats, and the spice has long been used in traditional medicine for its stimulant properties. A small amount of nutmeg has been shown to support sleep, both in duration and quality. However, high‑quality human clinical studies are still needed to confirm these effects.

Uses of Nutmeg

Topical application of nutmeg oil may help reduce joint pain, although research in this area is still very limited. One randomized, double‑blind, placebo‑controlled trial examined the clinical effects of a topical nutmeg extract in people with painful diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage caused by diabetes).

Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Chronic oxidative stress is linked to a higher risk of many diseases. Nutmeg contains several antioxidants, including:

– (Various phenolic compounds and essential oils, such as myristicin and eugenol, among others.)

When Does Nutmeg Start to Take Effect?

One of the benefits of nutmeg is that it supports overall digestive health. It may help relieve bloating, intestinal cramps, and diarrhea, and can have a soothing effect on stomach pain and peptic ulcers. Nutmeg is also used in some traditional practices for sexual weakness. In that context, it is sometimes taken about an hour before intercourse so that its effects can begin.

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Benefits of Nutmeg for Men

In today’s world, nutmeg is highly valued as a potent aromatic spice. Key components of its essential oil include:

– Myristicin (anti‑inflammatory)  

– Camphene (antifungal)  

– Geraniol (antioxidant)  

– Borneol (antibacterial, analgesic, anti‑inflammatory)  

Nutmeg also contains various fats, protein, starch, and trace amounts of minerals such as potassium and calcium.

Therapeutically, using nutmeg as a spice is said to stimulate the cardiovascular system, help lower blood pressure, improve concentration, reduce joint pain, ease inflammation, and calm occasional stomach upset.

For individuals suffering from arthritis and other types of pain, the active constituents in nutmeg essential oil can be used both internally (in appropriate, safe amounts) and topically.

Thanks to its antibacterial properties, nutmeg can significantly reduce bad breath and help clear the mouth of unwanted bacteria. As a result, it is commonly incorporated into various toothpastes and is also used traditionally to help relieve toothache.

As a general tonic, nutmeg is believed to support liver and kidney detoxification. For people with certain liver conditions, nutmeg may offer supportive benefits, as it has been reported to help prevent and dissolve kidney stones. When the liver and kidneys are effectively cleared of toxins, they can perform their functions more efficiently.

Ultimately, vision problems cannot be fully corrected without appropriate medical care, and there is no quick, easy fix for eye disorders. However, good nutrition and a healthy diet can help support eye health naturally. It is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist at the Eye Center in Al Batal Specialized Complex in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to evaluate your condition and receive safe, effective treatment.

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Is Nutmeg Addictive?

Although nutmeg is unlikely to cause harm when used in small culinary amounts, consuming it in high doses can lead to harmful side effects. Nutmeg contains the compounds myristicin and safrole. In large quantities, these compounds can cause symptoms such as hallucinations and loss of motor coordination.

High doses of nutmeg also carry additional risks, most notably the potential for psychological dependence. In some countries, people misuse nutmeg as a powerful recreational substance because of its intoxicating and hallucinogenic effects. Frequent use in such high doses can lead to episodes of severe abuse and dependence.

Nutmeg’s Potential Role in Cancer Treatment

The essential oil of Myristica species has shown cytotoxic effects (cancer cell killing) in laboratory studies. The aril covering the nutmeg seed (mace) may have chemoprotective properties, helping to counteract some of the harmful effects of cancer treatments. It may also help reduce the incidence of cutaneous papillomas (skin tumors) in experimental models.

Nutmeg Benefits in Managing Depression

Myristicin and macelignan, two essential oils found in nutmeg, may help slow cognitive decline associated with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Beyond stimulating brain activity, nutmeg may also help reduce fatigue and stress and is often used in traditional remedies for mood disorders such as anxiety and depression.

General Health Benefits of Nutmeg

Nutmeg has been associated with several potential health benefits, including:

– Alleviating pain  

– Soothing indigestion  

– Supporting cognitive function  

– Aiding in detoxification  

– Promoting skin health  

– Improving some oral conditions  

– Reducing insomnia  

– Supporting immune function  

– Potentially helping prevent leukemia  

– Enhancing blood circulation  

Nutmeg contains a natural compound called trimyristin, which is thought to promote sleep, relax tired muscles and nerves, and contribute to an overall sense of calm. Nutmeg essential oil also has mild sedative properties and may improve sleep by reducing the activity of certain stress‑related enzymes.

Nutmeg contains eugenol, elemicin, safrole, and vitamins A, B, and C—all of which may help reduce dark circles under the eyes.

Benefits of Nutmeg

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Nutmeg Benefits for People with High Blood Pressure

Some studies suggest that nutmeg may help lower blood pressure. It contains compounds that can help relax blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily. This effect may help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

How to Use Nutmeg Oil for Sexual Health

In experimental settings, an increase in mounting frequency (MF) and intromission frequency (IF) suggests that nutmeg, in addition to enhancing libido, may also increase sexual potency. A significant prolongation of ejaculation latency (EL) indicates that both the nutmeg extract and the standard reference drug can lengthen the duration of intercourse in these models.

Benefits of Nutmeg for Joint Health

Nutmeg contains compounds such as eugenol, myristicin, and elemicin, all of which have analgesic (pain‑relieving) properties. These compounds may help relieve various types of pain, including muscle pain, joint pain, and toothache. When applied topically, nutmeg oil can provide localized pain relief. In some mild to moderate cases, using nutmeg may help reduce the need to consider orthopedic or joint surgery.

Nutmeg and Weight Gain

Despite what some may think, nutmeg can actually support weight loss rather than weight gain. It contains compounds that may boost metabolic rate, helping the body burn calories more efficiently. In addition, nutmeg may help suppress appetite, making it easier to adhere to a healthy diet and reducing the need to visit obesity clinics or resort to expensive bariatric procedures and weight‑loss treatments.

Benefits of Nutmeg for Women

Nutmeg helps soothe the nervous system and improve blood circulation to the reproductive organs. This is why it is sometimes referred to as a “female Viagra,” as it may support sexual arousal and responsiveness in women.

Nutmeg for Premature Ejaculation

Nutmeg is considered beneficial for men because it may improve sexual performance and help prevent problems such as premature ejaculation. This is attributed to its aphrodisiac properties and its neurostimulant effects, which are linked to certain active components present in the spice.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Nutmeg Benefits

Does nutmeg cause drowsiness?

Sedative medications (central nervous system depressants) can interact with nutmeg and mace. Nutmeg on its own can cause drowsiness and slow breathing. When combined with sedative drugs—which already have similar effects—the risk of breathing problems and/or excessive sleepiness increases.

Does nutmeg affect the heart?

Nutmeg is well known for its rich flavor, but excessive intake can lead to hallucinations, tachycardia (rapid heart rate), and anticholinergic‑like effects (such as dry mouth, confusion, and elevated heart rate).

Can nutmeg cause hallucinations?

Yes, consuming large quantities of nutmeg can cause hallucinations and visual disturbances such as blurred or double vision.

Is nutmeg a stimulant?

Under controlled laboratory conditions, isolated myristicin from nutmeg oil can be converted into MMDMA, a synthetic amphetamine‑derived “designer drug.” MMDMA is less potent than MDMA (Ecstasy) but can produce similar stimulant and hallucinogenic effects.

What happens to the body when you eat too much nutmeg?

If you consume excessive amounts of nutmeg, you may experience a sense of “high,” although the more accurate description is “poisoned,” because the effects are usually unpleasant. The medical term for this is nutmeg intoxication, which can include symptoms such as hallucinations, drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion.

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Al Batal Specialized Complex in Saudi Arabia is considered one of the leading, most advanced medical centers in the field of eye care and ophthalmic treatment. The center’s reputation is growing day by day thanks to the excellent outcomes achieved by its medical staff and its use of the latest technologies for eye examination and treatment. If you suffer from any eye problem, schedule an appointment at Al Batal Specialized Complex to receive the best medical consultation from a highly qualified ophthalmologist.

If you would like an eye examination in Jeddah, we are honored to welcome you at Al Batal Eye Center. You can find the address here.