Nutmeg has hallucinogenic effects. Everything you need to know

Can nutmeg have hallucinogenic effects? The health dangers of taking it in massive doses

The question of nutmeg and its possible hallucinogenic effects came to the fore after the Amici affair. Some contestants on the talent show are said to have “experimented” with particular effects from taking the spice.

Whether the news is true or false, nutmeg contains substances that can have consequences that are even dangerous. Even comparable to those caused by the use of drugs.

What nutmeg is

It is a spice obtained from the seed of a plant called Myristica fragrans, native to Indonesia. In cooking it is used in many recipes with different kinds of dishes: meat, vegetables, cheeses and mushrooms. Its use in cooking is usually moderate, so there is no danger of harmful effects on the body. However, using nutmeg in excessive amounts can cause side effects that are even very serious.

The substances that cause harmful effects

The substances most harmful to the human body are elemicin and myristicin. Both can cause the central nervous system to malfunction. The consequences are similar to those of drug use. It is therefore established that nutmeg can have hallucinogenic effects, but it can also lead to more severe states of anxiety.

The negative consequences are linked to use that goes far beyond the standard doses used in cooking. Therefore, taking excessive amounts can result in nervous disorders, states of anxiety, psychiatric disturbances and hallucinations. It can also cause vomiting and fever.

These symptoms are linked to the fact that myristicin and elemicin are chemically similar to synthetic amphetamines, with effects similar to taking LSD.

For these reasons, the use of nutmeg is not particularly advisable during pregnancy, or should at least be limited. The same applies to people who suffer from psychological distress and psychiatric problems. In particular, it should be practically avoided by people undergoing treatment with psychiatric medications.

The dangers to health

The affair that reportedly took place among the contestants of the talent show Amici, which has yet to be confirmed, raises a problem. The media echo has effectively made the hallucinogenic properties of nutmeg known to everyone. It is a food easily found in the supermarket and available for purchase by anyone, without any kind of restriction.

In the boundless ocean of the web, it is also possible to find “instructions” on how to take it to obtain effects similar to drugs. In extreme cases it can even lead to death after severe convulsions. For this reason it is appropriate to underline in no uncertain terms the dangers of abusing nutmeg because of its hallucinogenic effects. These are risks about which young people in particular must be warned, as they are more inclined to experiment with dangers in every form.

Nutmeg has hallucinogenic effects, but it also has beneficial effects

Besides the negative consequences, nutmeg, when taken in moderate amounts, can also have beneficial effects. It is a valuable ally for metabolism, and it contains minerals useful for the production of iron and red blood cells. It also contains substances such as calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, which are useful for bones and teeth.

In traditional medicine nutmeg is used as an antidepressant, an antifungal and a digestive aid. It also has aphrodisiac properties.

The substances contained in nutmeg

Nutmeg contains many substances, in larger or smaller amounts. The list includes:

• Water
• Protein
• Carbohydrates
• Fiber
• Sugars
• Lipids
• Vitamins A, B6, C
• Potassium
• Sodium
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Iron
• Manganese
• Copper
• Zinc