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Nutmeg

latin Myristica fragrans

rasa pungent, bitter, astringent

vIrya heating

vipAk pungent

guNa light, oily penetrating

doSa VK-,P+

rasayana to reproductive, nervine, and intestinal tissues

karmas astringent, nervine, sedative, psychotropic, carminative, aphrodisiac, stimulant, expectorant

suggested dose 1/8-1/4 teaspoon

Botanical Description Nutmeg is the seed (about 1 x 3/4 inch) of the tree which is an angiosperm or evergreen.

Habitat and Varieties Indigenous to the Spice Islands of Indonesia, it is also grown in Malaysia, the Caribbean, and the Kerala state of India. M. malabarica is an adulterant sometimes used in India, and is called Jaiphal as well.

Indications:
vAta mindtransient insomniarestless leg syndromeneed for muscle relaxationanginafibromyalgiaarthritisintestinal spasms, gas, bloatingpremature ejaculationfemale infertility

Contra-Indications:
high pittahigh doses (>6g) may cause intoxication, leading to hallucinations, headaches, dizziness, and heart palpitationsinhibits prostaglandin in the expectant mother and may be hallucinogenic in the fetus

For, Combine With:
Inflammation and Bleeding : bittersSpasms and Gas : aromatic herbsNervousness and Insomnia : ashwagandha, brahmi, jatamansiDigestive Upset : amalaki, haritaki, fennel, cardamomDiarrhea from Coldness : haritaki, kustha, bakuchiImpotence and Premature Ejaculation : ashwagandha, gokshura, lotus seedsFemale Infertility and Menstrual Irregularity : shatavari, rose
Dr. Lad uses nutmeg essential oil for marma point massage therapy.
Nutmeg is also considered an Ayurvedic dhupana, or smoke therapy agent.

Sources:

Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice, Sebastian Pole, Elsevier Limited, 2006, p. 235-6.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myristica_fragrans (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myristica_fragrans), accessed 5/31/9.