Spices play an important role in Ayurvedic cooking. Not only do they add flavor to meals, but their unique properties help balance the doshas, can boost immunity, support digestion, and much more. Nutmeg has many benefits for men and women alike, including its traditional use as a sleep aid.
Nutmeg for sleep: An Ayurvedic sleep aid
Nutmeg is a popular natural remedy to help reduce stress, induce sleep, and increase the duration of sleep. A small pinch is normally taken in warm milk before bed. Make it a ritual by also adding cinnamon, cardamom, or any other warming, sweet spices.
Cooking with nutmeg
Nutmeg is an almost overpoweringly aromatic spice, to be used very sparingly. Fresh-grated nutmeg has a more powerful flavor and aroma than ground nutmeg. Nutmeg’s warming qualities help balance the cool, dry qualities of Vata and cool, damp properties of Kapha. Its sharpness and warmth increases Pitta. It contributes to the pungent, bitter and astringent tastes.
It stimulates appetite and digestion. Nutmeg is used in desserts and in baking. In Ayurvedic cooking, a pinch of nutmeg is added, with spices such as whole black pepper and bay leaf, to flavor rice or rice pilaf. It’s even added to some savory soups, such as cream of spinach and coconut soup.
Nutmeg used fresh or powdered is a delicious addition to many drinks, desserts, grain dishes, and more. Explore more recipes with nutmeg and other Ayurvedic spices at the blog.
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