ABSTRACT
Myristica fragrans (nutmeg) is a tree spice that belongs to the Myristicaceae family. Cultivated around the world, it has been used to flavour food, as essential oils, and in traditional medicine. Traditionally in many medicinal systems, nutmeg and its essential oils are used to treat gastro-intestinal disorders, nervous system problems, and skin conditions. Nutmeg seeds have justified their pharmaceutical application given their pharmacological attributes, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and neurological activities. Nutmeg is an important ingredient in many industrial applications ranging from food, medicine, cosmetics, and agricultural pesticides. Intense research on nutmeg has resulted in the uses and applications of nutmeg seeds and its by-products being constantly expanded.
