Nutmeg psychosis is an acute psychiatric disorder caused by the ingestion of around one to three whole nutmegs or an equal mass of ground nutmeg. Its symptoms include hallucinations, excitement, thought disorder, sense of impending death and agitation. Nutmeg is a toxic substance and a dosage of as little as 5g may cause a dry mouth, fast pulse, fever and flushing. It has amphetamine-like effects and may lead to the ingestion of large volumes of water. There is no specific antidote; the adverse effects wear off after 24 hours (or more) of rest.
The condition is almost always the result of deliberate experimentation in pursuit of the "legal high" or hallucinogenic effects, especially since nutmeg is easily purchased. Some cases have resulted in hospitalization; few who have experienced the effects of nutmeg poisoning recommend it as a "good trip" or repeat the experience.
Nutmeg is the actual seed of the tree, roughly egg-shaped and about 20-30 mm long and 15-18 mm wide, while mace is the dried "lacy" reddish covering or arillus of the seed.
Nutmeg powder is used as an ingredient, in small quantities, in the Indian spice mixture garam masala, which is a mixture of dry spices.It is also used as a flavouring agent in Indian sweets.
Nutmeg butter is obtained from the nut by expression.
Nutmeg is the actual seed of the tree, roughly egg-shaped and about 20-30 mm long and 15-18 mm wide, and weighing between 5 and 10 grams dried, while mace is the dried "lacy" reddish covering or arillus of the seed.
The Jamaica or calabash nutmeg is derived from Monodora Myristica, the Brazilian from Cryptocarya moschata, the Peruvian from Laurelia sempervirens, the Madagascar or clove nutmeg from Agathophyllum aromaticum, and the Californian or stinking nutmeg from Torreya Myristica.
Nutmegs were often used as amulets to protect against a wide variety of dangers and evils; from boils to rheumatism to broken bones and other misfortunes.
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