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Summary In this study, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, phytochemicals, fatty acid compositions, elements and sensory characteristics of the breads prepared using wheat flour and nutmeg powders at different concentrations were investigated. The results obtained regarding the physical and chemical properties of nutmeg breads exhibited some changes based on the nutmeg amounts added in bread production. Also, ‘L*’ results of the breads changed between 70.85 (1.0%) and 76.09 (0.5%). In addition, ‘a*’ and ‘b*’ results of breads with nutmeg powder were assigned to be between 0.47 (0.5%) and 1.93 (2.0%) to 18.44 (2.0%) and 20.42 (0.5%) and 1.93 (0.5%), respectively. Total phenol and flavonoid amounts of breads were established between 24.64 (0.5%) and 47.58 mg GAE per 100 g (2.0%) to 10.71 (control) and 177.38 mg per 100 g (2.0%), respectively. An increase in the redness value was monitored in nutmeg bread added at the rate of 1% and 2%. The amounts of phenolic constituents in the breads fluctuated depending on the added nutmeg concentrations. Gallic acid and 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid values of the breads were stated to be between 2.66 (2.0%) and 6.66 mg per 100 g (1.0%) to 1.48 (2.0%) and 2.71 mg per 100 g (control), respectively. Phosphorus and potassium quantities of the breads were found between 743.60 (control) and 810.50 mg kg−1 (0.5%) to 2077.37 (1.5%) and 2345.42 mg kg−1 (0.5%), respectively. The dominant fatty acids in bread oils were myristic, palmitic, oleic and linoleic acids. It can be seen that the addition of nutmeg in high concentration decreased the consumer's taste. In addition, the added nutmeg increased the colour value of the bread and corrected the textural structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) is spice plant which has an important position as a source of essential oils. An important problem in nutmeg cultivation is white root disease which can reduce nutmeg production. Until now, white root disease is still a problem in nutmeg plantations in South Aceh district. One of the solution that can be explored as an environmentally friendly control measure is to use the botanical fungicide coconut shell liquid smoke. This research aims to determine the potential of coconut shell liquid smoke in controlling white root fungus in vitro. The research was carried out in the Plant Protection Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Teuku Umar University. The research design used was a non-factorial Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of nine levels of liquid smoke concentration treatment; control 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10%. Each treatment involved three replications. Data analysis was carried out using analysis of variance and Tukey's least significant difference (HSD) test.The research stages carried out consisted of producing coconut shell liquid smoke, isolating white root fungus from the roots of infected nutmeg plants and potential assay of liquid smoke in inhibiting the growth of white root fungus. In vitro bioassay result showed that liquid smoke treatment 3% was the best treatment because it was the lowest concentration causing total inhibition of the growth of white root fungus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) provides broadbands, overtones, and combinations of organic-bond vibrations and has been used to characterize agricultural and food products. The adulteration of grated nutmeg with cinnamon is extremely profitable and difficult to detect; to prevent retail fraud, it is vital to differentiate between these materials. This study proposes a model for classifying the adulteration of nutmeg with cinnamon and predicting the level of adulteration. NIR spectra were characterized with six machine learning (ML) algorithms, namely, the principal component-multilayer perceptron (PC-MLP), principal component-linear discriminant analysis (PC-LDA), partial least squares regression (PLSR), support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and decision tree (DT) methods. PC-MLP provided 100% accuracy in calibration and prediction in distinguishing nutmeg from cinnamon. In addition, this approach showed excellent performance in predicting the adulteration ratio of nutmeg and cinnamon with a high coefficient of determination of prediction (R2pred) value of 0.9969, low root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) value of 0.5728%, and high ratio of prediction to deviation (RPD) value of 17.9605. Therefore, this study indicates the potential of integrating NIR spectroscopy with PC-MLP to classify and quantify the adulteration of nutmeg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to estimate the antioxidant activity, total phenolic, caffeic acid and quercetin contents, along with color parameters and pH of green coffee, cinnamon clove and nutmeg powders using their ethanolic extracts of grape origin (EEGO). In addition, volatile compounds' analysis was done using solid phase dynamic extraction coupled to gas chromatography mass spectrometry (SPDE/GC–MS) to the raw powders. Results showed that the highest average antioxidant activity (59.62%), total phenolic content (1160.49 mg GAE/L), and caffeic acid content (1978.20 mg/L) had green coffee EEGO. The respective values for cinnamon clove EEGO were: 55.12%, 1120.24 mg GAE/L, and 634.66 mg/L, whereas those of nutmeg EEGO were: 57.24%,199.39 mg GAE/L, and 30.43 mg/L. Quercetin had the highest content in cinnamon clove (566.77 mg/L), followed by green coffee (141.75 mg/L), and nutmeg 18.24 (mg/L) EEGO, respectively. Color parameters and pH differed significantly (p < 0.05) among the studied EEGO. Volatile compounds (alcohols, aldehydes, esters, ketones, phenolic compounds, etc.) differed significantly (p < 0.05) among the studied powders. The present findings confirm that ethanol of grape origin can be used as an edible and eco-friendly solvent to extract the phytochemicals found in green coffee, cinnamon clove, and nutmeg powders (which also possess a characteristic aroma), providing additional knowledge, on the potential use of these extracts as natural food preservatives. Ongoing research will further approve this hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new neolignans, myrifralignans F–G (14 and 18), four new diarylnonanoid derivatives, myrifragranones A–D (21–24), and 18 known compounds were isolated and structurally elucidated from nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) seeds. The absolute configurations of these secondary metabolites were determined using the electronic circular dichroism technique. The inhibitory potential of these isolated compounds on soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) was investigated for the first time. Among them, malabaricones B and C (19 and 20) and four new compounds 21–24 displayed inhibitory activities against sEH, with IC50 values ranging from 14.24 to 46.35 µM. Additionally, the binding mechanism, key binding interactions, stability, and dynamic behaviour of the active compounds with the sEH enzyme were analysed using in silico molecular docking and dynamics simulations. Our findings suggest that nutmeg could become a promising natural source for discovering and developing new sEH inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internal mildewed nutmeg is difficult to perceive without cutting the nutmeg open and examining it carefully, which poses a significant risk to public health. At present, macroscopic identification and chromatographic analysis are applied to determine whether nutmeg is moldy or not. However, the former relies on a human panel, with the disadvantages of subjectivity and empirical dependence, whilst the latter is generally time-consuming and requires organic solvents. Therefore, it is urgent to develop a rapid and feasible approach for evaluating the quality and predicting mildew in nutmeg. In this study, the quality and odor characteristics of five groups of nutmeg samples with different degrees of mildew were analyzed by using the responses of an electronic nose combined with chemical profiling. The main physicochemical indicators, such as the levels of α-pinene, β-pinene, elemicin, and dehydro-di-isoeugenol, were determined. The results revealed that the contents of α-pinene, β-pinene, and elemicin changed significantly with the extension of storage time. Through the use of an electronic nose and HS–GC–MS technology to assess the overall odor characteristics of nutmeg samples, it was found that the production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as ammonia/organic amines, carbon monoxide, ethanol, and hydrogen sulfide, as well as changes in the terpene and phenylpropene components of the nutmeg itself, may be the material basis for the changes in odor. The accuracy of the qualitative classification model for the degree of mildew in nutmeg was higher than 90% according to the electronic nose data combined with different machine learning algorithms. Quantitative models were established for predicting the contents of the chemical components, and models based on a BP neural network (BPNN), the support vector machine (SVM), and the random forest algorithm (RF) all showed good performance in predicting the concentrations of these chemical components, except for dehydro-di-isoeugenol. The BPNN performed effectively in predicting the storage time of nutmeg on the basis of the E-nose's responses, with an RMSE and R2 of 0.268 and 0.996 for the training set, and 0.317 and 0.993 for the testing set, respectively. The results demonstrated that the responses of the electronic nose (E-nose) had a high correlation with the internal quality of nutmeg. This work proposes a quick and non-destructive evaluation method for the quality of nutmeg, which has high accuracy in discriminating between different degrees of mold in nutmeg and is conducive to early detection and warning of moldy phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutmeg is an important spice and contributes significantly to the gross domestic product of Indonesia. The study examines the impact of climate change on Indonesia and the production of nutmeg over Banda Neira Island. For this, the outputs from high‐resolution regional climate models under different representative concentration pathways (RCP2.6, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5), within the framework of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 5/Coordinated Regional Climate Down‐scaling Experiment‐Coordinated Output for Regional Evaluations (CMIP5/CORDEX‐CORE) over southeast Asia domain are employed. The representation of the spatial structure of rainfall and temperature climatology is found to be much better in ensembles as compared to individual model experiments. The behaviour of simulated rainfall and temperature from the model experiments is examined to check whether the projected climate favours an increase in nutmeg production. The study found that projected changes in the number of wet days (ideal 100–160 wet days), heavy rainfall events, rising mean temperature above the optimum temperature range (25–26°C), increasing heatwave spells, and prolongation of the warm period led to an unfavourable climate for nutmeg production. Based on the analysis of dynamically produced (model simulated) climate variables, the study rejects the forecasted increase in nutmeg production using a statistical regression model due to the unfavourable climatic conditions that are likely to affect the growth, production and quality of nutmeg. The changing climate not only reduces regional agricultural production but also impacts the socio‐economic condition of the people of Indonesia. Therefore, the study emphasizes implementing stringent climate laws and policies at global, regional and local levels to curb greenhouse gas emissions and reduce the negative impact of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to obtain land characters and qualities data and to determine land suitability for clove and nutmeg and their spatial distribution in Nusalaut Island, Central Maluku Regency. The results showed that the land suitability for clove are marginally suitable class (S3) with the coverage area is 1452.38 ha or 66.51%, and the limiting factors are water availability and nutrient retention (wa, nr) limiting factors and unsuitable class (N) of 731.52 ha or 33.50 %. While the land suitability for nutmeg are moderate suitable (S2) with root media and nutrient retention (rc, nr) limiting factors and the coverage area is 123.75 ha or 5.66%, S2nr of 409.93 ha or 18.77%, slope (S2eh) limiting factor with the coverage area is 918.7 ha or 42.1% and the unsuitable class (N) with the area of 731.52 ha or 33.50 %. The land suitability of the clove and nutmeg is located in the Other Used-Areas (APL) with the area of 2183.63 ha, while total land units in the study area is 2697 ha. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutmeg is an important spice and contributes significantly to the gross domestic product of Indonesia. The study examines the impact of climate change on Indonesia and the production of nutmeg over Banda Neira Island. For this, the outputs from high‐resolution regional climate models under different representative concentration pathways (RCP2.6, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5), within the framework of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 5/Coordinated Regional Climate Down‐scaling Experiment‐Coordinated Output for Regional Evaluations (CMIP5/CORDEX‐CORE) over southeast Asia domain are employed. The representation of the spatial structure of rainfall and temperature climatology is found to be much better in ensembles as compared to individual model experiments. The behaviour of simulated rainfall and temperature from the model experiments is examined to check whether the projected climate favours an increase in nutmeg production. The study found that projected changes in the number of wet days (ideal 100–160 wet days), heavy rainfall events, rising mean temperature above the optimum temperature range (25–26°C), increasing heatwave spells, and prolongation of the warm period led to an unfavourable climate for nutmeg production. Based on the analysis of dynamically produced (model simulated) climate variables, the study rejects the forecasted increase in nutmeg production using a statistical regression model due to the unfavourable climatic conditions that are likely to affect the growth, production and quality of nutmeg. The changing climate not only reduces regional agricultural production but also impacts the socio‐economic condition of the people of Indonesia. Therefore, the study emphasizes implementing stringent climate laws and policies at global, regional and local levels to curb greenhouse gas emissions and reduce the negative impact of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many Neotropical tree species are widespread at continental and even inter-continental scales, but phenotypic variation across their respective ranges has rarely been quantified. We measured traits in the widespread, unisexual Neotropical tree Virola sebifera (Myristicaceae) across its continental-scale range, and predicted that, given its hyperdominant status, generalist-pollinated flower type, high dispersal capacity and wide ecological amplitude there would be: (1) a weak relationship among and within reproductive and vegetative characters with environmental, spatial and biome correlates; (2) undetectable canalization of reproductive traits; and (3) high phenotypic variation of vegetative characters. We measured five foliar and seven floral traits from 187 male-expressing individuals of V. sebifera in specimens collected from Central to South America. Spatial regression models were employed to test for the importance of distance, elevation, mean annual rainfall and temperature on phenotypic variation. Pairwise correlations of vegetative and reproductive characters were calculated to examine intraspecific trait variation among and within these two classes. We found that most phenotypic variation was weakly explained by spatial predictors such as certain major South American domains like the Andes Cordillera and the Amazon Basin. Within-class comparisons of floral characters were no different than among-class (floral-foliar) correlates, suggesting the absence of canalization of reproductive structures. Greater phenotypic variation in flowers relative to leaves may be due to the generalist pollinator regime and high dispersal capacity thus relaxing divergences in the evolutionary process of its floral morphology. The results of these morphometric analyses (e.g. weak signals of isolation by distance) in combination with the biology of this Neotropical tree suggest that V. sebifera operates as a well-dispersed metapopulation across most of its range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indonesia is a nutmeg exporter with the highest export value during 2012‒2020. However, the growth of Indonesia's export value is lower than its competitors. Therefore, to maintain its position as a major exporter, it is important to know its competitiveness. This study aims to explain the competitiveness of Indonesian nutmeg in the world and in ten export destinations. In addition, this study was conducted to analyze the competitive position in the export destination market. The study uses secondary data from UN Comtrade. The data are Indonesian export values of whole and powdered nutmeg in the international market and in ten destination countries during 2012‒2020. The data were processed using revealed comparative advantage (RCA) and dynamic revealed comparative advantage (DRCA) analysis. The results showed that Indonesian whole and powdered nutmeg were competitive in the world market. However, the competitiveness is lower than nutmeg competitiveness of Sri Lanka. Indonesian nutmegs in ten destination markets are also competitive, with the highest competitiveness being in Italy and Germany. Nevertheless, the always positive growth of competitiveness from two products occurred in Japan, thus make Japan's competitive position in rising star during the period of 2018‒2020. Increasing the competitiveness of nutmeg can be done by increasing the export value of the product through regulations by the government regarding post-harvest handling so that there is only a small amount of aflatoxin. In addition, the government can more focus on increasing exports to Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study presents the most suitable method for encapsulating nutmeg essential oil with liquorice and red clover. Two widely used methods, spray-drying and freeze-drying, were employed to find the most suitable for essential oil volatile compounds' protection. Results showed that freeze-dried capsules (LM) had a higher yield (85.34%) compared to the exact formulation of spray-dried microcapsules (SDM)—45.12%. All the antioxidant and total phenolic compounds' results obtained with the LM sample were significantly higher compared with SDM. LM microcapsules were incorporated in two different bases with no additional sugar (gelatin and pectin) for targeted release. Pectin tablets had firmer and harder texture properties, while gelatin tablets had a more elastic texture. There was a significant impact on texture changes caused by microcapsules. Microencapsulated essential oil with extracts can be used alone or in a gel base (pectin or gelatin, depending on user preferences). It could be an effective product to protect the active volatile compounds and regulate the release of active compounds and give a pleasant taste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcopenia, characterized by reduced muscle mass and fiber number leading to muscular atrophy, has been associated with serious socioeconomic challenges among the elderly in developed countries. Therefore, preventing sarcopenia could be a promising strategy for achieving a healthy aging society. Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) has been used as a spice to increase flavor and prevent putrefaction of food. Nutmeg contains various bioactive components that improve muscle activity. To determine the potential effect of lignan-enriched nutmeg extract (LNX) on sarcopenia, LNX (100 mg/kg body weight)-fed aged mice were subjected to forced exercise. Herein, aged (22-month-old) mice fed LNX for three weeks exhibited a shortened and thickened soleus muscle. The ratio of the soleus muscle mass (%) to body weight was significantly increased in LNX-fed aged mice. The relative increase in muscle mass in LNX-fed aged mice improved exercise activities, including rotarod, swimming, and grip strength test results. Proteome profiles of the soleus muscle of LNX-fed mice were used to analyze protein–protein interaction network. Several myosin heavy chain isoforms were found to interact with actin, ACTA1, which functions as a hub protein. Furthermore, the expression of myogenic proteins, such as MYH1, MYH4, and ACTA1, was dose-dependently increased in vivo. In result, our functional proteomic analysis revealed that feeding LNX restored muscle proteins in aged mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was to optimize the extraction conditions of polyphenol from nutmeg by ultrasonic wave and cellulase. Using nutmeg as raw material, the extraction process of polyphenols from nutmeg was optimized by ultrasonic and cellulase, and the antioxidant activity of nutmeg was studied in vitro. The results showed that the optimal extraction process was as follows: Cellulase dosage of 1.6 g/L, enzymolysis temperature of 45 ℃, ultrasonic time of 60 min and ultrasonic power of 300 W. Under these conditions, the yield of mace polyphenol was 2.962%. When the polyphenol concentration was 1.5 g/L, the DPPH· and ABTS+· clearance rates were 80.34% and 83.13%, respectively. The study indicates that the method used in the experiment has low energy consumption and high efficiency, which can provide a reference for the efficient extraction of polyphenols from nutmeg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the seed kernels of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) were pretreated with partially purified pectinase (PPP) prior to hydrodistillation to enhance the extraction of essential oil. The yield of the essential oil obtained after pretreatment with PPP was 4.70%. GC-MS analysis of the essential oils obtained after pretreatments with PPP showed a total of 33 constituents classified into monoterpenes (51.52%), sesquiterpenes (21.21%) and phenylpropanoids/aromat ic (27.27%) compounds. Comparison was made by pretreating the nutmeg seeds with a pure pectinase (CP) obtained from Sigma-Aldrich. The fraction obtained when pretreated with CP was made up of 32 components with monoterpenes (51.31%), sesquiterpenes (18.75%) and phenylpropanoids/aromatic (28.12%) compounds. The major components of essential oils obtained after pretreatments with PPP and CP were sabinene, α -pinene, β-pinene and myristicin. This research shows that the extraction of Myristica fragrans seed kernel essential oil can be improved using PPP when compared with the yield of the control (3.80%) obtained from the seed kernels that were not pretreated with the enzymes prior to hydrodistillation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With about 70 species Virola, is the largest genus of Myristicaceae in the Neotropics, the genus ranked in the top ten genera of abundance across Amazonia. Ten new species are proposed in this striking genus, which are described based on morphology, and are illustrated. The new species were discovered thanks to herbarium specimens collected mainly in the 1980s and 1990s when field documentations were more active. The new species come from Colombia (V. calimensis sp. nov., V. cogolloi sp. nov., V. excisa sp. nov., V. tuckerae sp. nov.), Ecuador (V. alvaroperezii sp. nov., V. bombuscaroensis sp. nov., V. calimensis, V. excisa, V. yasuniana sp. nov.), Peru (V. aguarunana sp. nov., V. cumala sp. nov., V. excisa, V. parkeri sp. nov.), and Brazil (V. excisa, V. yasuniana). Additionally, a lectotype is designated for V. macrocarpa, a name used to identify some specimens of the new species here described, and V. kwatae is reported for the first time for Brazil. We provide a comparation table between the new species and the species that is morphologically close to it, a preliminary list of species for the genus, and notes of how the new species were treated in floras, checklists, or collections that need more study and herbarium specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutmeg syrup is one of the processed nutmeg flesh products that has high selling potential, one of the producers of nutmeg syrup in the South Aceh area is Usaha Diyanti. The purpose of this research activity is to determine whether or not there is GMP application in the nutmeg syrup production process at Diyanti Enterprises, Hilir Village, Tapaktuan District, South Aceh Regency, Aceh Province through the Kedai Reka internship program, Merdeka Campus, Teuku Umar University 2021. This study uses a study method. field and interviews with Diyanti Business owners to find out the existing problems. The problem-solving method is done by making a questionnaire to the business owner. The application of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) aims to improve product quality and employee hygiene when processing products at home businesses and is safe for consumption by consumers. Aspects that are considered by consumers to be unfavorable really need to be observed and need to be improved, namely production room facilities, storage areas for finished products, employee hygiene in producing products in the home industry and aspects of product design and packaging to attract consumers' attention and want to consume beverage products nutmeg syrup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The consumption of antioxidant-rich foods can lower the risk of chronic diseases. In the present work, plain yogurt (control) and three kinds of herbal yogurts fortified with a polyphenol extract from nutmeg, black pepper, and white pepper were prepared. Post-acidification, proteolysis, total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant activity of yogurt samples were studied over 21 days. Additionally, all yogurt samples were subjected to sensory evaluations on the first day of storage. Results: Higher production (p < 0.05) of lactic acids was observed in all herbal yogurts than in plain yogurt over 21 days of storage. Black pepper and nutmeg enhanced (p < 0.05) the proteolytic activity of yogurt as compared to control, with the maximum values at 21 days. All three herbal yogurts showed the highest TPC (48–55μg GAE/ml) at day 14 of storage. The radical scavenging activity of yogurt was positively affected (p < 0.05) by the presence of the three kinds of herbal extracts (72–83%; day 0), with the highest values observed in nutmeg yogurt. Ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) value of nutmeg yogurt was the highest (p < 0.05) among the other samples at day 7 of storage. The ferrous ion chelating (FIC) ability of all the three herbal yogurts ranged from 80% to 83% during 2 weeks. The highest overall preference scores among the three kinds of herbal yogurts were recorded for black pepper yogurt. Conclusions: Polyphenol compounds derived from nutmeg, black pepper, and white pepper extracts could enrich yogurt with antioxidant properties, with nutmeg yogurt showing the best effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dianti's business is a home industry for candied nutmeg that has distributed its products to several cities in Aceh. The extent of marketing of the products produced needs to be supported by good product quality control. Purpose: This study aims to analyze the suitability of the GMP implementation practices that have been applied in the Dianti Business with the GMP standards set by the government and observe the GMP aspects that need to be improved in the candied nutmeg production process in this business. Method: The research method used is primary data collection through observation and interviews. Results: In general, Usaha Dianti's candied nutmeg industry has implemented GMP in its production activities. However, there are still 3 aspects that need to be improved, namely related to building facilities, employee health and hygiene, and maintenance of hygiene and sanitation. Conclusion: Dianti's efforts have made efforts to implement GMP in all stages of production. However, there are still some aspects that do not quite meet the GMP standards. These aspects include improving building facilities so that they are more closed so as to prevent the entry of contamination from outside, implementing employee hygiene by tightening the rules for using personal hygiene attributes such as aprons, masks and gloves when carrying out production activities as well as implementing better sanitation, especially in controlling polluting pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background : The lack of utilization of nutmeg flesh causes nutmeg flesh to be often wasted as waste. In fact, if used optimally through diversification of processed products, nutmeg can produce products that have economic value so that it has the opportunity to increase the income of nutmeg farmers. Purpose: This study aims to develop processed nutmeg products, namely Sukade and nutmeg juice and to determine the acceptance of these products based on organoleptic tests. Method: The research was carried out by hedonic testing on nutmeg juice, and nutmeg juice using a comparison of papaya juice and pineapple juice. Observation variables include the level of preference of the panelists/organoleptic (color, aroma, and taste). The data collected were analyzed statistically and continued using the different BNT test at the 5% level. Results: The results of the study related to the level of panelists' preference for nutmeg Sukade using a papaya Sukade comparison showed a score of color assessment (5,2-5,4) in the slightly liked category, taste (5,1-5,5) in the slightly liked category, aroma (5,4- 5,7) in the category of slightly like to like, and texture (4,3-4,8) including the category of neutral to moderately like. The results of organoleptic testing on nutmeg juice with comparison of pineapple juice obtained a score of color assessment (4,7-4,9) in the slightly like category, taste (5,7-5,9) in the like category, and aroma (5,6-5,8). ) likes category. Organoleptically, it can be seen that the comparison between nutmeg juice and papaya juice and nutmeg juice with pineapple juice is not significantly different so that it can be used as an alternative product of nutmeg. Conclusion: The results of the study related to the level of panelists' preference for nutmeg Sukade using a papaya Sukade comparison showed a score of color assessment (5.2-5.4) in the slightly liked category, taste (5.1-5.5) in the slightly liked category, aroma (5.4-5.4). 5,7) the category is somewhat like to like, and texture (4.3-4.8) is in the category of neutral to somewhat like. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The white adipose tissue (WAT) browning process has become one of the promising methods for managing obesity. During this process, WAT is transformed into brown-like adipose tissue, which is also known as beige adipose tissue. The browning process can be activated by several inducers. One of the best candidates is peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) agonist. Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt) is a natural PPARα/γ partial agonist that is known to contribute to the browning effect. This study aimed to explore the potential effect of nutmeg seed extract (NuSE) on body weight reduction and uncoupling protein (UCP)1, UCP2, UCP3, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1 PGC-1α levels in aging rats. Eight male Wistar rats (80 weeks old) were divided into control and treatment groups. Both groups were fed a standard diet, and the treatment group was given 8.1 mg/kg body weight/day of NuSE via oral gavage for 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, the levels of UCP1, UCP2, UCP3, and PGC-1α from both inguinal WAT (iWAT) and interscapular brown adipose tissue (BAT) were examined. We observed that the administration of NuSE has no significant effect to the decreasement of rats body weights (p = 0.464), levels of UCP1 (p = 0.686), UCP2 (p = 0.360), UCP3 (p = 0.076), and PGC-1α (p = 0.200). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Extracts from Samoan indigenous species Myristica hypargyraea and Myristica inutilis. • Aril extract of M. hypargyraea possessed the highest anti-staphylococcal activity. • Aril extract of M. inutilis showed the highest selective antiproliferative effect. • Malabaricone A, otobain, licarin A, and licarin B identified as the major components. Hexane extracts derived from the arils and seeds of two Samoan indigenous plant species, Myristica hypargyraea A. Gray and Myristica inutilis Rich ex A. Gray, were assessed for their in vitro anti-staphylococcal effect using a broth microdilution assay. Additionally, their cytotoxic activity against human colon cancer and normal intestinal cell lines was determined. In this study, all plant extracts tested showed a certain degree of growth-inhibitory effect against various strains of Staphylococcus aureus with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 8 to 1,024 µg/mL. The aril extract of M. hypargyraea possessed the highest antibacterial activity with MIC value 8 µg/mL against one standard strain and three clinical isolates of S. aureus , the effective concentrations of this extract were found to be safe for the intestinal cells. The aril extract of M. inutilis showed the highest selective antiproliferative effect on intestinal cancer cells with a lower toxicity to normal cell lines. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis, malabaricone A, otobain, licarin A, and licarin B were identified as the major components of both the aril and seed extracts of M. hypargyraea and M. inutilis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is now considered a "new world syndrome" because it is affecting developed and developing nations in all classes of people. Pancreatic lipase (PL) is the key enzyme for absorption of dietary lipids. Excessive consumption of cafeteria foods leads to obesity. Nutmeg is being used as a spice and it has many medicinal values. We aimed to see whether nutmeg could be used as a potential source of new lipase inhibitors and to explore its molecular mechanism in obesity. An in vitro study, which was performed to check its anti-lipase activity, showed a potent lipase inhibition (66.24%). A liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis was carried out to identify new compounds, and tetrahydrofuran (THF) with MW 536 at RT 15.2 min was isolated. A molecular docking study, that was carried out to check the interaction between THF and PL, found a PL inhibitory action of tetrahydrofuran. A further in vivo study was conducted to see PL inhibition. The percentage of fecal fat was higher in nutmeg treated rats. The size and number of adipose tissue fat cells were also decreased after treatment with nutmeg extract, which pointed to the inhibition of PL by the newly identified compound, THF. These four different types of studies suggested that nutmeg could potentially inhibit pancreatic lipase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myristica fragrans Houtt., commonly known as nutmeg, is an Indonesian indigenous dioecious evergreen tree that contains 5-15% volatile oil. The oil is usually produced from the seed or mace. Nutmeg oil has been extensively utilized in aromatherapy, natural medicine, and the perfume industry. This article provides an overview of the chemical compounds, biological potency, and toxic effects of nutmeg essential oil compiled from recent literature (2000-2020). Nutmeg oil mainly comprises monoterpenes and phenylpropanoids. Several reports on gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometry analysis of nutmeg oil showed that there were 27-38 chemical constituents detected at various concentrations. Many secondary metabolites of nutmeg oil are reported to show biological activities that possibly substantiate its utilization in natural medicine. Numerous studies reported the biological activities of this volatile oil such as antioxidant, analgesic, antiinflammation, anticonvulsant, antibacterial, antiparasitic, insecticidal, and anticancer activity. But large intake of nutmeg oil could cause intoxication which is shown through symptoms in the cardiovascular, central nervous system, anticholinergic, and local effects in the stomach. These symptoms are mainly attributed to the effect of myristicin, safrole, and elemicin overdose. This updated review paper intends to attract more attention to nutmeg oil and its potential to be developed into a medicinal product for the prophylaxis and therapy of diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isolation of nutmeg essential oil from nutmeg seeds (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) using the steam distillation method is a unique technique because nutmeg essential oil contains heavy and light oil. Nutmeg essential oil is the main product produced by nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), isolated by the steam distillation method. The main component of nutmeg essential oil is myristicin and several other typical compounds of essential oils. This study discusses the results of steam distillation from nutmeg seeds, characterizing nutmeg essential oils, and analyzing their suitability for INS number 06-2388-2006. From the Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) results, the main content of nutmeg essential oil is myristicin (30.30%) and followed by a-Pinene (12.01%). The physical characteristics of nutmeg essential oil are colourless. They have a distinctive scent of nutmeg oil, a density of 0.8822 g/mL, a refractive index of 1.4781, solubility in ethanol 90% obtained at a concentration ratio of 1:3, optical rotation (+) 24,3714o, and the remaining evaporation is 1.72%. It can see that the overall results of this nutmeg essential oil quality test are following the Indonesian National Standard (INS) number 06-2388-2006 (INS No. 06-2388-2006). From this research, it can conclude that the steam distillation method for 24 hours with 12 hours without pressure and 12 hours last with pressure can be used as a reference method for the isolation of nutmeg essential oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Browning of white adipose tissue (WAT) is a promising approach to obesity treatment. During browning, WAT transforms into beige adipose tissue through stimulation of the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ). Nutmeg, one of the Indonesian herbs, reportedly has dual roles as a PPARα/γ partial agonist. Even though nutmeg has been traditionally used in body weight reduction, there is limited information regarding the potential role of nutmeg in browning of WAT. Objectives: In this study, we explored the effect of nutmeg seed extract (NuSE) as a potential inductor of WAT browning. Methods: Twelve male Wistar rats, 5–6 weeks old, were divided into control and nutmeg groups. The rats in nutmeg group were given NuSE for 12 weeks by oral gavage. After 12 weeks, the rat's inguinal WAT and brown adipose tissue (BAT) were collected, weighed and stored at − 80°C until use. Results: We observed that even though NuSE did not reduce the final body weight, it significantly reduced body weight gain. NuSE also increased protein levels of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC‐1α) and uncoupling protein 3 (UCP3) significantly and tended to increase UCP2 and UCP1 levels. Furthermore, NuSE induced macroscopic and microscopic morphological changes of inguinal WAT, marked by significantly increased adipocyte numbers and decreased adipocyte size. Conclusions: Even though NuSE did not increase UCP1 significantly, it potentially alters inguinal WAT characteristics and leads to browning through PGC‐1α and UCP3 induction. However, UCP3's specific mechanism in WAT browning remains unclear. Our findings could contribute to obesity treatment in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although spices are widely used as food products and are generally regarded as safe, intentional abuse of household spices may occur and is likely underreported in the medical literature. Spices are inexpensive and widely available for purchase by individuals of all ages and may be perceived as being safer than traditional drugs of abuse. Nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla are commonly abused spices. The major component of nutmeg is myristicin; myristicin has activity at serotonergic receptors and may result in psychomimetic symptoms after exposure. Cinnamon oils contain local irritants which may cause dermatitis or ulcerations after topical application. Ground cinnamon contains cellulose fibers; these are biopersistent and bioresistant, and inhalational exposure to cinnamon powder can result in chronic pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis. Pure vanilla extract contains a minimum of 35% ethanol according to the United States Food and Drug Administration standards, and abuse of vanilla extract may occur among individuals seeking ethanol intoxication. Overall, misuse or abuse of these spices frequently results in mild to moderate symptoms that do not require medical intervention, although more serious intoxications may require hospitalization. Clinicians should be aware of the potential dangers of household spice abuse and understand management strategies for these exposures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a multi-layered neurodegenerative ailment with cumulative loss of dopaminergic neurons over the limbic areas and nigro-striatal pathways. PD mainly affects the motor behavior of old aged population. Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, accumulation of α-synuclein and neuro inflammation was the probable mechanism behind PD pathogenesis. In spite of various understandings, till now effective treatment is unfilled. In PD, both motor signs (tremor, rigidity, akinesia & postural imbalance) and non-motor (NM) symptoms (depression, anhedonia, autonomic dysfunction) were observed. NM deficits mainly affect the quality of life of PD patients. Rotenone and MPTP are the most widely used lipophilic neurotoxins (cross the blood brain barrier) for evaluating the neuro-protective potential of various compounds and drugs against PD. Nutmeg, an aromatic spice possess various pharmacological properties such as anti-diabetic, anti-epileptic, memory enhancer, aphrosidiac, anti-cancer. Rotenone was injected to male Wistar albino rats by intraperitoneal route (2.5mg/kg daily) for 30days. In our previous study, we indicated that MFSE extract ameliorated motor, memory deficits in rotenone induced PD model. Current study focuses on Myristica fragrans seed (MFSE) extract against rotenone induced non-motor behavioural deficits and biochemical parameters. In PD NM models, forced swim test (FST) and sucrose intake test (SIT) were conducted to access the depressive behaviour, anhedonia. Oxidative stress were studied by biochemical parameters (lipid peroxidase TBARS, catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase). MFSE extract (oral) treated groups displayed steady increase in climbing behaviour, low immobility time in FST and elevated percentage of sucrose intake in SIT. It might be due to its neuro-protective, anti-depressant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the degree of influence of moisture content on some physical properties of nutmeg. The nutmeg seeds were subjected to six different levels of moisture (5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 15%db). Moisture content had a significant effect on the physical properties (p=0.05). A decrease in moisture content led to a decrease in length, width, thickness, geometric, arithmetic, square and equivalent mean diameters. Moisture content had a linear relationship with sphericity, projected and surface area, bulk and true density while it had an inverse relationship with porosity and angle of repose. Moisture content had a significant effect on coefficient of friction of nutmeg on the four surfaces considered (glass, stainless steel, plywood and rubber). Glass, stainless steel, plywood and rubber has an increasing coefficient of friction respectively; this implies that materials will move easily with lesser resistance on glass and stainless steel compared to more resistance on plywood. The data obtained will guide engineers, food processors and technicians in accurate selection of machine parts in design and constructions of sorting, separating, cleaning equipment and post-harvest machines which will eventually aid commercialization and efficient processing of the spice crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson's disease (PD) the second most common and progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting the old aged people. PD caused due to the depletion of population of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in niagro striatal system of brain. Natural and synthetic substances such as 6-hydroxydopamine, Rotenone, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine, Paraquat, LPS and cycad were ascertained to be neurotoxic, crossed the blood brain barrier and caused deleterious effects over Dopaminergic neurons. Rotenone (plant derived pesticide) inhibitor of complex I in mitochondrial electron transport chain causes dopaminergic neuron cell death. In the current study, we investigated the effect of MFSE against rotenone induced PD model in rats by behavioural parameters (open field test, narrow beam walking test, hanging test). Rats were administered rotenone by intra-peritoneal route (2.5mg/kg daily) 30days. MFSE treated rats alleviated rotenone induced motor behavioural impairments significantly. It might be due to its positive interaction between dopaminergic neurons mediated through its anti- inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti- epileptic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of nutmeg, rosemary, and ginger oleoresins against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas, Streptococcus mutans, and Enterococcus. Materials and Methods: The oleoresins used for the study were obtained from Synthite Industries Pvt. Ltd., Kerala, as a gift sample. To test the antibacterial effect of the oleoresin, agar well diffusion method was used and its effect was assessed by measuring the zone of inhibition. Results: All the oleoresins showed very good antibacterial activity. A dose-dependent inhibitory effect was observed with all oleoresins except nutmeg oleoresin against Pseudomonas where low concentration showed better activity. In this study, maximum inhibition was shown by rosemary oleoresin against Pseudomonas followed by nutmeg oleoresin against Enterococcus. Conclusion: The present study concludes that nutmeg oleoresin, rosemary oleoresin, and ginger oleoresins were active against E. coli, Pseudomonas, S. mutans, and Enterococcus. Hence, they may be used for the control of infections caused by these organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spices, chemical variability is a known phenomenon. Here, we studied the clove and nutmeg grown in different islands both Andaman and Nicobar groups of islands situated in the Bay of Bengal, India. Essential oils were extracted and profiling was carried out which revealed considerable variations among the collections for essential oil content as well as composition. P-Eugenol was observed in island-grown clove samples in the range of 59.895 to 76.059%, whereas, ß-Caryophyllene and Eugenyl acetate were other important constituents of oil. In case of nutmeg, myristicin, the hallucinogenic compound, was present in the range of 7.070 to 20.331%. Considering the quality of island-grown spices, these crops could be recommended as profitable intercrops in the existing plantations in the islands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deep‐frying process for plenty of fried products using vegetable oils needs safe and effective antioxidants. In the present exploration, the nutmeg essential oil (NEO) was employed as a potential antioxidant for sunflower oil during the deep‐frying of Chinese Maye at 180°C for 30 hr. In the comparative study, the additions for NEO at 0.12 g/kg, TBHQ at 0.12 g/kg, BHA at 0.08 g/kg, and BHT at 0.08 g/kg to sunflower oil were able to obviously improve its oxidative stability during the deep‐frying process, and their antioxidant effects were in the relative order: TBHQ at 0.12 g/kg > NEO at 0.12 g/kg > BHA at 0.08 g/kg > BHT at 0.08 g/kg (p <.05). Besides, NEO at 0.12 g/kg could markedly ameliorate the sensory properties including flavor, taste, crispness, and overall acceptability of the fried products, Chinese Maye (p <.05 or p <.01). In addition, using antioxidant activity‐guided fractionation, three active compounds including limonene, terpinolene, and geranyl acetate were isolated from NEO. Among them, limonene was demonstrated to not only significantly increase the oxidative stability of sunflower oil in the deep‐frying process, but also significantly increase the sensory properties of the fried products, Chinese Maye (p <.05 or p <.01). Consequently, limonene could be employed as antioxidants in sunflower oil for the deep‐frying of Chinese Maye, and the sunflower oil flavored by NEO could be used as frying oils for its oxidative stability and unique flavor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myristica is the largest and primitive genus of the taxonomically complex family Myristicaceae. DNA barcoding was used to study the evolutionary relationship between Myristica spp. and other genera of Myristicaceae. The barcoding loci namely, rbcL, matK, psbA-trnH, ITS and multilocus combinations were tested to assess their phylogenetic relationship. psbA-trnH locus revealed information regarding the relationship of species in Myristica genus. M. fragrans was found to be closely related to M. beddomei, M. amygdalina, M. andamanica1, whereas M. fatua was found to be distinct from M. malabarica. Gymnocranthera and Knema species were found to share sister relation with other Myristica spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The study aimed to identify nutmeg compounds that indirectly interact with the endocannabinoid system through inhibition of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) enzymes. Methods: Thirteen compounds were screened for FAAH and MAGL inhibition. Compounds demonstrating significant FAAH inhibition were evaluated to determine the halfmaximal inhibitory concentration (IC50). The most potent compound was investigated in the elevated plus maze (EPM) rodent anxiety model. Key findings: Three compounds, licarin A (9), 5′‐methoxylicarin A (8) and malabaricone C (6) were most active in inhibiting FAAH with IC50 of 7.02 μm ± 2.02, 4.57 μm ± 0.66 and 38.29 μm ± 6.18, respectively. None of the purified compounds showed significant MAGL inhibition. Because of its relative high potency and selectivity, compound 8 was further evaluated in the EPM animal model of anxiety. The compound showed significant increase in number of open arm entries (P < 0.05) when administered at 120 mg/kg dose. No effect was observed on the locomotor activity. Conclusions: Results collected introduce active nutmeg compounds as potential leads for further development. Of the three compounds, 8 possesses highest potency and FAAH selectivity as well as anxiolytic activity. Furthermore, in vivo testing in appropriate behavioural animal paradigms is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A taxonomic synopsis of Virola (Myristicaceae) is presented for Mesoamerica. Fourteen species are recognised, amongst them six are described and published as new, based on morphology: V. allenii D.Santam. & Aguilar, sp. nov. from Costa Rica, V. otobifolia D.Santam., sp. nov. from Panama and V. amistadensis D.Santam., sp. nov., V. chrysocarpa D.Santam. & Aguilar, sp. nov., V. fosteri D.Santam., sp. nov. and V. montana D.Santam., sp. nov. from both Costa Rica and Panama. Additionally, a lectotype is designated for V. koschnyi, accompanied by an epitype in view of the fragmentary material. Finally, we recognise V. laevigata and V. nobilis as morphologically distinct species, though these are frequently considered synonymys of V. guatemalensis and V. surinamensis, respectively. Of the fourteen accepted species, twelve of them are endemic to Mesoamerica, while the remaining two species (V. elongata and V. sebifera) extend into South America. Illustrations, species diagnoses and distribution maps for each species are provided, as is an identification key to all species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutmeg is an important perennial spice crop, which is dioecious in nature. Vegetative propagation is the norm in commercial propagation of the tree. The existing practice of propagation is grafting and budding which needs good skill and expertise for reasonable success. As an alternative to these two methods, air layering was attempted in matured trees for the first time in the country. Air layering was successful in plagiotropic and orthotropic shoots with 100 per cent survival. This method is cost effective and is easy for adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Massive outbreak of Xylosandrus crassiusculus and Diuncus corpulentus (Coleopera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae: Xyleborini) on clove (Syzygium aromaticum) and nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) is reported from Kerala, India. Infestation results in drying up of branches and death of trees. This is the first report of the ambrosia beetle genera Xylosandrus and Diuncus on clove and nutmeg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Nutmeg is a plant grown in tropical region for its seeds distinct flavor, nutritive value and health benefits. Despite extensive studies on nutmeg seed metabolites composition, much less is known regarding volatiles composition in the seed outgrowth mace and fruit and or roasting impact on its flavor. A volatile extraction method was applied for the first time to reveal for nutmeg distinct aroma using headspace solid-phase microextraction (SPME) coupled to mass spectrometry. A total of 53 volatiles were identified belonging to various classes viz. , aromatic ethers, monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. Compared to seeds and mace tissue, fruit was found more enriched in the key flavor “myristicin” 40%. In contrast, monoterpene hydrocarbons amounted as major volatile forms in seeds. Compared to nutmeg fruit, roasted seeds showed a distinct aroma composed of ( E )-isoeugenol 16% and methoxyeugenol 11% not detected in fresh seed concurrent with lower anti-nutrient alkaloid levels. GC–MS was further utilized to localize primary metabolites ( i.e., sugars and organic acids) and revealing for free sugars abundance in seeds at 47% versus enrichment of organic acids 58% viz. malic acid in fruit, and accounting for the later less palatable taste. This study provides the most comprehensive map for sensory metabolites distribution in nutmeg. Highlights • Metabolites profiling of nutmeg fruit, seed & mace. • 112 peaks were detected viz. aroma, sensory & anti-nutrients. • Fruits metabolome was distinct from that of seeds and mace. • Roasting impacted seed aroma profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutmeg is an inexpensive, readily available spice used in a variety of recipes. However, the use of nutmeg powder as a recreational drug for its hallucinogenic effects is resulting in an increase in overdose rates. We encountered a male patient being hospitalized after ingesting 75 g of commercially available nutmeg powder with the intent of committing suicide. There are no available reports documenting the toxic or comatose-fatal blood concentrations or time-course of drug action in cases of nutmeg poisoning. Therefore, to improve patient management, we endeavored to determine the blood serum levels and time-course of the major psychoactive compounds (safrole, myristicin, and elemicin) present in nutmeg. We designed a simple and reliable method using the MonoSpin® extraction kit and gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry to detect the presence of these psychoactive compounds in human serum. The method had detection and quantitation limits of 0.14–0.16 and 0.5 ng/mL (lowest calibration points), respectively. The calibration curves displayed excellent linearity (0.996–0.997) for all three compounds at 0.5–300 ng/mL blood concentrations. The intra- and inter-day precision values for quality assurance were in the ranges of 2.4–11 % and 2.5–11 %, respectively; bias ranged from − 2.6 % to 2.1 %. Blood serum levels of safrole, myristicin, and elemicin were measured at admission (approximately 8 h post-ingestion) and approximately 94 h after a post-admission fluid therapy to evaluate their biological half-lives. We developed this method to obtain information on the psychoactive constituents of nutmeg and, thereby, determine the toxicokinetic parameters of nutmeg in a case of nutmeg poisoning. • Nutmeg, a common spice, is also used as a recreational psychoactive drug. • Our method detects safrole, myristicin, and elemicin from nutmeg in human serum. • The serum is prepared using MonoSpin® C18 FF cartridges and subjected to GC–MS/MS. • We validated the method and applied it in a nutmeg-poisoning case. • We determined the toxicokinetic parameters of nutmeg in a case of nutmeg poisoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutmeg (NM) and citrus peel (CP) extracts are potential sources of phytochemicals high in antioxidant activity. The synergistic effect of the extracts when incorporated as a binary mixture (NM-CP) demonstrated high antioxidant activity, exceeding the expected values indicating possible interactive synergism. This effect prompted us to investigate the potential of NM, CP and NM-CP extracts in imparting oxidative stability to meat balls during frozen storage. NM-CP was evaluated at two concentrations 0.5% (NMCP) and 1.0% (NMCP1). Meat balls with added salt (MS) and control (without any salt and antioxidant) served as control. Binary mixture (NM-CP) at 1% showed a stronger inhibitory effect on lipid oxidation in comparison to the NMCP and individual extracts NM and CP. However, with respect to protein oxidation, both concentrations (NMCP and NMCP1) exhibited higher inhibitory activity than the individual counterparts. Color, flavor and sensory scores further confirmed the efficacy of NM-CP in extending the storage life of frozen meat. Synergistic effect of binary extract NMCP in retarding lipid and protein oxidation in meat balls could be of practical value for meat processors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most studies on the essential oil of nutmeg ( Myristica fragrans Houtt,; Myristicaceae) have been laboratory based. To our knowledge, this is the first study describing the practical application of the essential oil of this species in the greenhouse for controlling the whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae). Three concentrations (10, 5, and 2.5 mg/mL) of the ethanol-extracted essential oil of M. fragrans were prepared. In laboratory experiments, fumigation toxicity was evaluated by applying 0.1 mL of extracted oil onto a filter paper (6 cm diameter) that was attached to the inside of the cap of a 100 mL glass jar containing 20 whiteflies; mortality was recorded 1, 2, 4, and 8 h after application. For assessment of contact toxicity, a tomato leaf was treated with 0.1 mL of the essential oil extract solutions and placed in cages containing 20 whiteflies each; the mortality was recorded at 3, 6, 12, and 24 h of the bioassay. For determination of the repellency effect, 2 leaves, 1 treated with extracted oil and another with the control solution, were placed in cages, and 20 insects were released into each cage; repellency was observed after 24, 48, and 72 h. In the greenhouse, 2 potted plants were placed in a cage; 1 was treated with extracted oil and the other was treated with a control solution; 100 whiteflies were released into the cage, and repellency and anti-oviposition effects were observed at 24 and 48 h of the bioassay. Maximum fumigation toxicity (79.17 ± 3.00%), contact toxicity (72.50 ± 4.23%), and repellency (76.67 ± 7.15%) were observed at 10 mg/mL in the laboratory experiments. The maximum repellency (58.33 ± 3.50%) and anti-oviposition (46.11 ± 5.38%) effects were observed at 24 h of exposure in greenhouse tests. These results suggest that the essential oil of M. fragrans was toxic, repellent, and prevented whitefly oviposition in laboratory and greenhouse tests. Further studies are recommended to assess the bioactivity of the chemical components of the essential oil on other insect species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

François Stanislas Cloez (1803-1881), farmacéutico francés pionero en química y fisiología vegetal, química analítica y química orgánica, estudió el mecanismo de respiración de plantas acuáticas, la absorción de nitrógeno por las plantas, la nitrificación de los suelos, la fotosíntesis en plantas con hojas de color, los venenos de los batracios y salamandras, descubrió las primeras aminas etilénicas. (etiléndiamina, dietiléndiamina, and trietiléndiamina), separó e identificó el eucaliptol, el principal componente del aceite de eucaliptus, sintetizó la cianamida (junto con Cannizzaro), la tricloracetamida, la primera acetamida clorada, hizo un análisis detallado del famoso meteorito de Orgueil, diseño un aparato para el lavado continuo de materiales pulverulentos o gelatinosos, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myristica fragrans mace, an economically important traded spice is being adulterated with mace of M. malabarica , a closely related species. Identification of the genuine mace from its adulterant is difficult owing to the loss of diagnostic morphological characters on drying and storage. Four DNA barcoding loci viz., rbcL, matK, psbA-trnH and Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) are compared to analyse Myristica malabarica adulteration in traded Myristica fragrans mace samples. The potential of psbA-trnH as the best barcode over other loci in authentication of M. fragrans mace was established by its amplification and sequencing success, high interspecific variation and presence of polymorphic sites. Sixty polymorphic sites and 9 indel regions in psbA-trnH locus specific to M. malabarica are found in three out of the five market samples studied, thereby confirming the adulteration of traded M. fragrans mace with M. malabarica . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf fall disease caused by Phytophthora sp. has become a serious problem in major nutmeg growing areas of Kerala during South - West monsoon period. Host range study was carried out to find out the infectivity of Phytophthora isolates of nutmeg on other known hosts of Phytophthora spp. including arecanut, coconut, cocoa, rubber, black pepper, cardamom, camboge, vanilla, rose, coreopsis, eucalyptus, colocasia and citrus. Phytophthora isolates of nutmeg showed characteristic symptoms on rubber, vanilla, rose, coreopsis, eucalyptus and citrus, whereas, cocoa, black pepper and colocasia developed hypersensitive reaction and the pathogen failed to cause infection on arecanut, coconut, cardamom and camboge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myristica fragrans commonly rich nutmeg is one of the highly prized spices, known since antiquity for its aromatic, aphrodisiac, and curative properties. Nutmeg has many health benefits, studies show that it can help to stop diarrhea (in low dose), detoxify the body, and stimulate the brain, etc., and it has more nutritional effect, rich in energy, dietary fiber and proteins, carbohydrates, and mainly rich in Vitamins A, C, and E. It also contains electrolytes, minerals such as copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and phosphorus and phytonutrients include carotene-B and cryptoxanthin B. It contains antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antifungal and having number of ethnopharmacological properties, these are rich in flesh, seed, and mace of nutmeg. Consuming a huge amount of nutmeg can complicate the body because it is a strong spice should use in small quantities. Consuming too much of nutmeg results in sudden attack, irregular heart palpitations, and vomiting. Nutmeg has enormous amount of benefits, but keep the usage of nutmeg should be in control. Nutmeg is a natural product, people and environment can get more safety and is considered to be less of a risk for resistance development by pathogenic microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myristica fragrans Houtt, traditionally known as Jatiphal and Javitri in India, belongs to the family Myristicaceae is known for its flavour and therapeutic action since 18th centaury in alternative medicinal systems. It is a good body detoxifier, stimulates the brain. Ethanol extract shows antifungal, spasmolytic, carminative, hepatoprotective, antiviral, anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, antimicrobial properties. Nutritionally, nutmeg is rich in energy, carbohydrates, proteins and dietary fibre. Seed is a rich source of vitamins. It also contains electrolytes minerals and phytonutrients including carotene-B and crypo-xanthin . Myristica fragrans has a lot of industrial applications in liqueurs, soap production and cosmetics. This review article elucidates the information regarding the phytochemistry and pharmacological activity of the plant which provides the basis for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study that analyzed the chemical constituents of Myristica fragrans seeds. Proximate analysis, atomic absorption spectroscopic and gas chromatographic methods showed that M. fragrans seeds contain crude ash, crude protein, crude fibre, moisture, crude fat, nitrogen-free extract, and appreciable amount of sodium, potassium and calcium, phenols and flavonoids. Findings show potentials for M. fragrans seeds as source of minerals and amino acids in the diet.

Irradiation of food products and ingredients must be indicated by proper labeling. This study evaluated the appropriateness of the European Standard EN 1785:2003 for the detection of 2-alkylcyclobutanones, which are radiolysis products of fatty acids, in cashew nuts and nutmeg and confirmed its suitability to detect irradiation of cashew nut samples at average absorbed doses of 1 kGy and above. An alternative method was developed, which is based on matrix solid phase dispersion and subsequent separation and detection of oxime derivatives of 2-alkylcyclobutanones by high performance–high resolution mass spectrometry. It is more rapid, less resource consuming, and more sensitive than EN 1785:2003. This method allowed detection of 2-alkylcyclobutanones in cashew nuts irradiated at 100 Gray and in nutmeg irradiated at 400 Gray. None of the 26 cashew nut and 14 nutmeg samples purchased in different EU Member States contained traces of 2-alkylcyclobutanones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forty one accessions of nutmeg collected from diverse locations of Kerala of age 15 years were evaluated at Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur during 2012–14. Among these accessions, 38 were females and three were monoecious. The accessions were evaluated based on 17 fruit characters recorded from two trees per accession during two consecutive bearing seasons. The statistical parameters viz., mean, range, phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), heritability (H2), genetic gain (GG) and genotypic correlation coefficients were calculated. High PCV and GCV were observed for the characters such as fruit weight, mace weight, mace volume, dry nut weight, kernel weight, fruit volume and number of fruits per tree. Heritability was high for all the characters except shell thickness. High GCV coupled with high heritability in the characters indicated the scope for yield improvement through selection based on these characters. Genetic gain was the highest for number of fruits per tree (144.3%) followed by mace characters viz., fresh and dry weight as well as volume of nut. Fruit weight was also significantly and positively correlated with fruit breadth, fruit volume and thickness of pericarp. Based on the results, accessions such as Acc. 9, Acc. 8 and Acc. 22 were found promising with respect to the economic characters viz., mace weight, nut weight, kernel weight and number of fruits per tree. These accessions can be used in further crop improvement programmes on nutmeg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]