JAATHIKAI – ஜாதிக்காய் (जायफल) / NUTMEG / MYRISTICA FRAGRANS

🌰 Product Name: Jaathikai

Other Names:

• Botanical Name: Myristica fragrans

• English: Nutmeg

• Tamil: ஜாதிக்காய் (Jaathikai)

• Hindi: जायफल (Jaiphal)

• Malayalam: ജാതിക്ക (Jathikka)

• Telugu: జాతికాయ (Jathikaya)

• Kannada: ಜಾಜಿಕಾಯಿ (Jajikai)

• Sanskrit: Jatiphala / Jatika

📦 Product Description:

Jaathikai is the seed of the nutmeg tree, native to the Spice Islands (Indonesia) and widely used in Indian traditional medicine and culinary preparations. It is oval-shaped, brown, and has a distinctive warm, spicy aroma. Nutmeg contains essential oils, tannins, and antioxidants.

It is prized in Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani for its carminative, sedative, and antimicrobial properties.

✅ Health Benefits of Jaathikai:

1. Improves Digestion:

   • Relieves gas, bloating, and indigestion.

   • Stimulates appetite.

2. Promotes Better Sleep:

   • Used traditionally to induce sleep in children and adults.

   • Mixed with warm milk at night.

3. Relieves Cold & Cough:

   • Has antibacterial and expectorant properties.

   • Used in balms or rubbed on the chest for relief.

4. Oral Health:

   • Helps fight bad breath and gum infections.

   • Antimicrobial action aids in toothache relief.

5. Skin Care:

   • Powdered nutmeg is used in face packs for acne and blemishes.

   • Acts as a mild scrub and antiseptic.

6. Brain and Nervous System:

   • Acts as a mild stimulant and may improve concentration and mood.

7. Pain Relief:

   • Nutmeg oil or paste is used topically for joint pain and muscle ache.

⚠️ Side Effects & Precautions:

• Overconsumption (more than 1–2 grams) can cause:

  • Hallucinations

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Dizziness

  • Heart palpitations

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using.

• Use sparingly, especially in children.

🍽️ How to Use:

• Culinary Use: Grated or powdered in small amounts in sweets, gravies, and desserts.

• Medicinal Use: A pinch with honey, milk, or hot water, as directed by traditional practices.

• External Use: Paste made with water or milk for face or pain relief application.