Myristicaceae

Myristicaceae, the nutmeg family of the magnolia order (Magnoliales), best known for the fragrant, spicy seeds of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans). The family contains 15 other genera and about 380 species of evergreen trees. Myristica fragrans, popularly known as “‘Rou Dou Kou” or “Nutmeg” belongs to the family Myristicaceae. According to TCM, the most common applications of nutmeg are in preventing diarrhea and gastroenteritis. Nutmeg also helps to reduce symptoms associated with digestive problems, such as nausea and vomiting, and can increase appetite. The major bioactive chemical constituents of M. fragrans are myristicin, myristic acid, elemicin, saffrole, eugenol, palmitic acid, oleic acid, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, etc.