Nutmeg in Tea – All You Need to Know

Nutmeg is a spice from an evergreen tree from Banda Islands in eastern Indonesia.

Originating from the fragrant genus Myristica, nutmeg is actually the seed of the tree’s fruit.

The spice boasts natural sweetness which makes it a favorite condiment in spicy Indonesian soups such as soto and konro.

Its use extends far from culinary recipes to cocktails, lattes, and teas.

Nutmeg in Tea

Nutmeg is one of the spices added to Masala chai. The spice goes particularly well with Black teas, and even more with Bubble teas with milk.

Adding nutmeg to your favorite Black tea will boost its intense flavor and give it some natural sweetness to balance the earthy tones.

Aromatic warmth and nutty sweetness is what nutmeg adds to any Black tea of your preference.

Ground vs. Grated Nutmeg

There are spices that contain almost the same aroma whether fresh or ground, but not our favorite nutmeg.

When freshly grated for tea, nutmeg releases a fresh and sweet, almost citrusy fragrance which, of course, is not the case with the already ground and processed nutmeg that has a more musky smell.

When adding nutmeg to your tea, always opt for a fresh nutmeg that you can grate yourself right before adding to the infusion rather than its ground counterpart that’s been sitting on the supermarket shelf for months.

How Much Ground Nutmeg Is Equal to Fresh Nutmeg?

Although there is no exact measure for the two types, freshly grated nutmeg is much more intense than the pre-ground, so you can use 1/4 teaspoon of fresh nutmeg or 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Have in mind that the fresh one will always have more aroma.

Nutmeg Tea Benefits

Drinking a cup of nutmeg tea per day has a massive impact on human health.

The spice has anti-inflammatory compounds that act as antioxidants in the body, preventing severe cell damage and the development of fatal diseases.

Nutmegs have the following science-backed benefits:

• Relieving pain
• Helping digestion
• Improving cognitive functions
• Aid skin health
• Detoxify the body
• Improve sleep
• Reduce oral infections
• Boost blood circulation

The information presented on this site is provided for information purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical advice or diagnosis provided by your physician or other medical professionals. Do not use this information to diagnose, treat, or cure any illness or health condition. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your physician or healthcare provider.

Can You Boil Whole Nutmeg?

You can pour hot water over the whole nutmeg and let it steep for 15-20 minutes until it releases the aroma.

However, the best way to make a nutmeg tea is by using grated nutmeg.

How Much Nutmeg Can I Add to My Tea?

Whether you want to make pure nutmeg tea or add the spice to your Black tea, a 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg is good for one cup of tea. If you add more than that, the nutmeg will entirely overtake your tea’s flavor.

Nutmeg Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp Ground Nutmeg
• 3-4 tsp Tulsi
• 5 tsp Rosebud (optional)
• 3 tsp Chamomile (optional)
• 1 cup of water

Preparation:

Pour boiling water over all of the ingredients and let it steep for 5-7 minutes. Strain and serve with honey or sugar.

The natural floral aroma of Tulsi blends perfectly with the nutty warmth of the nutmeg, creating an awe-inspiring tea pleasure.

Is Nutmeg Good for Healing?

Nutmeg tea contains essential oils with active compounds that may relieve joint and muscle pain.

Drinking two cups of nutmeg tea per day may help with chronic joint pain and muscle spasms and reduce inflammation.

Can I Drink Nutmeg Tea Before Bed?

Pure nutmeg tea is known to combat insomnia, but you can also mix it with other sleep-aiding teas like chamomile.

However, if you add nutmeg to Black tea, it will most likely make you more alert unless you choose a decaf Black tea.

Final Word

Freshly grated nutmeg in your tea will boost your metabolic system and your blood circulation which means your body will get more oxygen and prevent cell damage.

Besides the phenomenal flavor, nutmeg is also boasting a plethora of medicinal properties that will increase the nutritive value of your favorite tea.