Nutmeg comes from the evergreen tree Myritica fragrans native to the Indonesian Spice Islands. The essential oil is steam distilled from the seed of the fruit from this tree. Interestingly, nutmeg is one of the few essential oils that contains the chemical compound myristicin.
This compound provides the signature aroma and flavour of nutmeg. In excess, myristicin can be psychoactive but can also soothe the mind, increase antioxidant activity, and improve circulation. Nutmeg has many properties that benefit the skin, from improving circulation to combatting acne to stimulating healthy blood flow. And because it fights free radicals, it can improve the overall appearance of skin and slow the aging process. Nutmeg creates a soothing, warming sensation when applied to the skin. If your joints are stiff and achy, try a bit of nutmeg to loosen them. You may also experience relief from minor headaches with a dab of nutmeg essential oil.
Aromatically, Nutmeg Essential Oil is a warm, spicy essential oil that is sweet and somewhat woody. It blends beautifully with other essential oils in the spice family.
It also blends well with floral, citrus and wood essential oils. It can add a beautiful, distinctive spicy characteristic to otherwise bland blends.