The highs and lows of nutmeg

Iused freshly grated nutmeg in some homemade vanilla eggnog I made recently. Just so you know, it really does make a difference if you grate a whole nutmeg versus using powdered spice. The flavor is incredibly richer!

Nevertheless, nutmeg is a super interesting spice with tons of health benefits. What’s particularly remarkable is that nutmeg naturally contains myristicin, a compound that can get you a little bit high. Its psychoactive properties might explain why that one relative gets all weird after Thanksgiving dinner.

For sensitive individuals, it may be a little too much. Myristicin puts the sympathetic nervous system into action, which can cause fight-or-flight symptoms. In excess, one may experience dry mouth, blurred vision, dizziness, confusion and heart rhythm abnormalities. For those with pre-existing heart conditions, even a teaspoon or two can be fatal!

The worst part is that children and teens are usually the ones getting into trouble because of the nutmeg challenge that’s trending on social media.

The LSD-like effects don’t occur right away. The spice is fully ingested and absorbed into the bloodstream before the dreadful situation presents itself symptomatically.

Before you go and trash the nutmeg in your home, myristicin is also in your parsley, anise, cinnamon, clove, fennel, parsley and basil— just not as much.

I don’t want to scare you away from nutmeg because it's a strong anti-inflammatory known to help with sleep, blood pressure, inflammation, stomach problems and pain. It also improves memory. And, if used correctly, nutmeg will enhance the flavor of any dish!

Recipes call for very small amounts—usually one-quarter or half of a teaspoon to the batter or soup you’re making.

Nutmeg is easily a superfood with tremendous health benefits. When abused it can lead to intoxication. Please read your recipes carefully and keep an eye on what your kids or grandkids are watching on social media. ■

HOW TO MAKE Vanilla Eggnog

Find a link to my homemade eggnog recipe at: www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

DEAR PHARMACIST

BY SUZY COHEN For more articles and advice, sign up for Suzy’s newsletter at www.SuzyCohen.com

P AIN ?

CBD AND NON-CBD PRODUCTS AVAILABLE

ESSENTIAL OIL • TINCTURE • SALVE • BODY BUTTER LOTION • TOPICAL ROLL-ON • BATH SALTS CULINARY • HYDROSOL & MORE....

Website: mesalavenderfarms.com Blog: curtisswift.com Store: 545 North Ave., Suite A Grand Junction, CO 81501 Phone: 970.628.1339

Email: hello@mesalavenderfarms.com

25% OFF use coupon code: BEACON0422 VALID THROUGH April 2022 CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER COUPON.

Family Health West was built from the ground up by our community – settled with health and prosperity in mind. Today, we look forward to the future, approaching new horizons in healthcare while taking forward that same spirit of dreaming to create a beautiful tomorrow we all believe is possible.

FHW.org/Rose