Botanical Plate · 19th c. Scientific AtlasMyristica fragrans
Spices & AromaticsRare Terroir
Banda Islands Nutmeg & Lacy Mace
Native / Vernacular: [Pala (Biji & Fuli) / जायफल एवं जावित्री]
Myristica fragrans·Family: Myristicaceae
Primary Geographic TerroirBanda Islands (Spice Islands), Maluku Archipelago, Indonesia
Flavor Profile & Aroma Notes
Sweet NuttyWarm WoodyPine-CamphorCitrus-Bitter (Mace)Earthy
"Rich myristicin, elemicin, sweet floral wood, roasted almond, and warm buttery spice"
Vedic Ayurvedic Energetics
Rasa (Taste)Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent)
Virya (Energy)Ushna (Heating)
Vipaka (Post-Digest)Katu (Pungent)
Prabhava (Special)Nidrajanana (Promotes sound sleep) & Grahi (Digestive absorbent)
Ayurvedic classification based on Classical Samhitas (Charaka & Sushruta). Balances doshas when formulated in appropriate dietary proportions.
Bioactive Compounds & Health Benefits
- ✓Natural sedative and sleep-promoter containing myristicin which regulates serotonin and dopamine pathways
- ✓Stimulates gastric motility and relieves abdominal colic and spasms
- ✓Potent antibacterial activity against oral pathogens
Identified Active Phytochemicals:
MyristicinElemicinSafrole (trace)MacelignanTerpineol
Kitchen & Chef Applications
- Freshly grated over classic French béchamel sauce, potato gratin dauphinois, and cheese fondues
- Essential in Mughlai rich gravies (Shahi Korma, Biryani) and garam masala
- Mace arils infused into Scottish haggis, charcuterie terrines, and eggnog
Artisanal Flavor Pairings
Heavy CreamGruyère CheesePotatoPumpkinVeal / LambEggnog
Harvest Season & Pantry Care
Harvest Window:Year-round in tropical volcanic Banda Islands
Storage Guidelines:Buy whole nutmeg kernels; grate directly over dishes just before serving.