By Dr. Surya Bhagwati
Chief In- House Doctor
BAMS, DHA, DHHCM, DHBTC | 30+ Years of Experience
Jayfal (Nutmeg in English) is a seed of the Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) tree that is indigenous to the rainforests of Indonesia. You can get Jayfal in its whole seed form or its powdered form which is often used in cooking.
You can use it in curries or enjoy its slightly nutty flavour in tea. Either way, you get to experience its many health benefits. The essential oil extracted from Nutmeg contains a psychoactive substance called myristicin. This is the active component that provides the many benefits of Jayfal. Ayurved has used Jayfal to treat various diseases. This has led to many scientific studies being carried out on Nutmeg.
Jayfal is also known by:
- Jaadhikai - Jayfal in Tamil
- Jathikka - Jayfal in Malayalam
- Jajikayi / Jaikaaya - Jayfal in Telugu
- Jaika / Jeerake / Jajikai - Jayfal in Kannada
In this article, we will go through the benefits, side effects, and uses of Nutmeg.
7 Nutmeg Benefits:
1. Jayfal Is Rich In Antioxidants
Jayfal is packed with antioxidants that can help protect your cells from free radical damage. This can help reduce the risk and progression of heart diseases, neurodegenerative illness, and certain cancers.
2. Jayfal Controls Blood Sugar Levels
Studies have shown this Ayurvedic ingredient to help improve blood sugar control. Nutmeg also boosts pancreatic function, supporting a more efficient digestive system.
3. Nutmeg Improves Sex Drive
According to some studies, Nutmeg boosts libido and sexual performance. The studies showed nutmeg to help improve the sexual activity by stimulating the nervous system. Ayurvedic treatment for sexual disorders also makes use of this spice. A few sexual performance-boosting supplements also contain Jayfal.
4. Jayfal Supports Heart Health
Studies have found that taking nutmeg supplements can help lower the risk of heart disease. It does this by regulating high cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
5. Jayfal Has Antibacterial Properties
Along with the other benefits, Jayfal also provides antibacterial properties. This allows your body to combat bacteria that can cause gum disease.
6. Jayfal Improves Mood
This spice is found to be able to improve mood and combat depression. Several studies are being conducted to provide more details on the mechanism behind this benefit.
7. Jayfal Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Jayfal has menoterpenes like sabinene, pinene, and terpineol which provide its anti-inflammatory attributes. This helps reduce inflammation that is linked to other health issues like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.
Potential Side Effects Of Jayfal:
Jayfal is used in cooking and taken in small doses for its health benefits. It’s also used in dietary supplements for a convenient way to experience these benefits. It is also safe for most people.
That said, Nutmeg contains myristicin and safrole, two compounds that can cause some side effects when taken in large amounts. These side effects include loss of muscle coordination and hallucinations.
Symptoms of nutmeg toxicity include nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, agitation, and disorientation. This is also why doctors suggest against self-medicating on Nutmeg powder.
Final Word:
Jayfal is a household spice in India and can make for tasty, sweet, and savoury dishes. But its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties allow for improved heart health, mood, and blood sugar levels. Male health products like Herbo 24 Turbo also make use of Jayfal.
In the end, there are plenty of health benefits that Jayfal can provide, whether you go for Jayfal-based Ayurvedic supplements or its powder.
References:
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- “Chemical Diversity and Pharmacological Significance of the Secondary Metabolites of Nutmeg (Myristica Fragrans Houtt.).” Phytochemistry Reviews : Proceedings of the Phytochemical Society of Europe, vol. 15, no. 6, Dec. 2016, pp. 1035–56. PubMed Central, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11101-016-9469-x.
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Dr. Surya Bhagwati
BAMS (Ayurveda), DHA (Hospital Admin), DHHCM (Health Management), DHBTC (Herbal Beauty and Cosmetology)
Dr. Surya Bhagwati is an established, well-known Ayurvedic expert with over 30 years of experience in treating and consulting in the field of Ayurveda. She is known for the timely, efficient, and patient-centred delivery of quality health care. The patients under her care receive a unique holistic treatment comprising not only medicinal treatment but also spiritual empowerment.