Nutmeg Nutrition facts

Nutmeg

Pleasantly aromatic, nutmeg is actually a seed (kernel) of the fruit from the Myristica fragrans tree. It is one of the highly prized spices known since antiquity for its aromatic, aphrodisiac, and curative properties.
Nutmegs are evergreen trees, native to the rainforest of Indonesian Moluccas Island, also known as the Spice Islands.
Botanically, the plant belongs to Myristicaceae family of medium to large trees. Its scientific name is: Myristica fragrans. Besides M. fragrans, several other species of Myristica grown all over the tropical regions including M. argentea, M. malabarica (Indian), and M. fatua. Although they are similar in appearance to M. fragrans, they, however, have a less intense flavor and aroma and command less price.
M. fragrans is a large evergreen tree that thrives well in tropical climates. A fully-grown tree may reach about 50-60 feet in height, and is the source of nutmeg, and mace, the two invaluable spices.
The nutmeg fruit, indeed, is a drupe about the size of an apricot, which upon ripening splits up to reveal a single, centrally situated oval-shaped, hard kernel, that is popular as 'nutmeg spice.' This seed (kernel) is closely enwrapped by crimson-red, lacy, or thread-like arils known as 'mace.' Both spices feature a similar warm, sweet aromatic flavor.