Nutmeg Side Effects

Nutmeg is a common holiday spice that is derived from the seed of the Myritica fragrans plant. According to the March 1993 issue of the "Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine," nutmeg also has touted psychoactive and hallucinogenic properties and has been used as a drug for several centuries. In recent times nutmeg has gained popularity as a natural legal high. In small quantities nutmeg is safe, but in higher quantities, nutmeg is very poisonous and toxic. It is not safe for recreational drug use.

Nutmeg oil

Oils found in the shell of the nutmeg can be very toxic if taken in high enough quantities. The most toxic component of the nutmeg oils is known as myristica oil or myristica. The quantity that must be ingested to act as poison is much higher than what is usually used in cooking or the amount sprinkled on eggnog. According to the 1997 issue of "Natural Toxins," five grams of nutmeg is enough to induce a toxic effect. The actual toxic dose may differ from person to person. Caution should be taken.

Nervous System

According to MedlinePlus, nutmeg poisoning, also known as myristica oil poisoning, can cause a wide range of adverse reactions to the nervous system. These can include drowsiness, anxiety, drunkenness, and headache, but also can have more serious effects including tremors and seizures. Nutmeg poisoning, according to MedlinePlus, can cause tremendous bodily harm and even be fatal if medical treatment is not sought.

Other Side Effects

According to MedlinePlus, nutmeg poisoning can cause a slew of adverse effects including gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and diarrhea. Nutmeg poisoning can also cause rapid heart rate, chest pain, and dehydration. Under the right circumstances, any of these effects can be dangerous if medical attention is not readily available.

Drug Interactions

Although nutmeg drug interactions are not fully understood, scientists have done some research on them. In a study published by Dr. Dinesh Dhingra in the spring 2006 issue of the "Journal of Medicinal food" nutmeg oil exhibited anti-depressive effects in mice. The mechanism of action is not known, but it could be suggested that higher levels of nutmeg could interact with anti-depressant medication. In the April 2001 issue of "Forensic Science International", Dr. Stein describes an interaction of nutmeg oil with flunitrazepam, a powerful prescribed narcotic lead to the death of a patient.