Nutmeg(Jaiphal) For Babies – When to Introduce, Benefits and Side effects

What is Nutmeg (Jaipal)?

Nutmeg is a spice obtained from the dried seeds of the fruits of the Myristica trees. It has a sweet taste and fine aroma. The fleshy fruit of the same plant with a deep red skin is called javitri or mace which is also used as a spice. Jaipal seed is fleshy but firm and contains essential oils. Nutmeg requires warm and humid tropical weather to grow.

Jaipal is used as a home remedy for coughs, loose motion, diarrhea and gas in babies for ages. It also has the properties to induce good sleep.

Is Nutmeg Safe For Babies?

According to the a study by NCBI, nutmeg does not have any side effects. Though there is not enough scientific research on the side effects of nutmeg on babies. You can consider it safe as Indian parents are using a bit of nutmeg in baby foods and milk for generations. A pinch or two of nutmeg will not harm your baby. Yet you must consult with your doctor before introducing jaiphal to your baby.

When Can You Introduce Nutmeg to Your Baby?

You can start giving Jaipal to your baby after the rice ceremony which means after 6 months. It is better to introduce spice only when your baby gets fully habituated to solid food and can digest them.

Nutritional Value of Nutmeg

Even a teaspoon of nutmeg has enough nutrients for your baby. According to the University of Rochester Medical Centre, a teaspoon of nutmeg contain:

How Much Nutmeg Can You Give Your Baby?

You can give 0.5 mg of nutmeg once a day to your baby during the summers. You can increase the amount to 0.10 mg per day during winter or monsoon. So roughly a pinch or two of Jaipal is enough for your baby. Add a pinch of nutmeg to the milk of your baby or add Jaipal in the lentil, porridge or khichdi of your baby. Adding a pinch of nutmeg will surely make the baby food more flavorful.

[Read : Khichdi For Babies]

Amazing Top 6 Health Benefits of Nutmeg For Babies

Nutmeg has several health benefits. That is why it is used popularly as a home remedy for various health issues in babies, such as:

1. Excellent Cure For  Gas and Colic

Babies often suffer from gas and colic as most of the time they lie or sit in bed. According to some fresh research, Nutmeg along with honey can cure digestive problems in babies.

[Read : Health Benefits Of Honey For Babies]

2. Helps Cure Diarrhea

The immature digestive system of a baby often causes diarrhea. The fiber present in nutmeg will help in good bowel movements and induce digestive secretion and digestive enzymes to cure diarrhea.

3. Provides Relief From Cold and Cough

Nutmeg keeps the body warm from within. You can offer a pinch of nutmeg powder in warm milk when your baby is suffering from cough and cold. Do not use honey if your baby is less than 12 months.

4. Promotes Good Sleep

Good sleep is needed for the appropriate growth of your baby. Nutmeg can help in this with its relaxing properties.

5. Enhances Appetite

As nutmeg has carminative effects it can reduce gas and bloating. This in turn results in increased appetite.

6. Boosts Immunity

Jaipal contains the goodness of several bioactive compounds like eugenol, methoxyeugenol, and isoeugenol along with antioxidants. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of nutmeg will also boost your baby’s immunity in the long run.

Are There Any Side Effects of Nutmeg For Babies?

Only a pinch or two of nutmeg is enough for your baby. A little overdose (5 to 20 g/ 1 to 4 teaspoon) of nutmeg can cause serious side effects like intoxications. The side effects of nutmeg overdose can be:

• Nausea
• Abdominal distress
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Skin allergies such as rashes, redness and hives

Side effects of nutmeg overdose can start between 3 to 6 hours of intake and can last up to 12 to 24 hours. Thus to detect whether your baby is having any nutmeg allergies, you must introduce nutmeg for the first with food your baby is able to safely have without any side effects.

So nutmeg is a trusted spice to cure many little health problems in babies for which you should not always rely on medicines. But it is beneficial only when used in limited quantities. Buy organic nutmeg and store it in an airtight container to preserve its taste and aroma. And grind it only when you need it. Do let your pediatrician know before introducing nutmeg to your baby and go ahead only if he/she nods yes.

[Read : Vomiting in Babies]

FAQ’s

1. Does Nutmeg Help the Baby Sleep?

Yes, research show that nutmeg has the quality to cure insomnia. Though there is not enough study on its effect in babies yet the relaxing property can induce sound sleep in babies.

2. Is Nutmeg an Allergen For Babies?

Allergic reaction due to nutmeg is very low. There is not enough study about it too. The isoeugenol in nutmeg can cause allergy. Though its name may suggest nutmeg is not a nut. So you can offer nutmeg to your baby even if he/she has a nut allergy.

3. Is Nutmeg Good For Babies’ Colds?

Yes, nutmeg will keep your baby’s body warm from the inside. Nutmeg can also boost immunity and thus your baby will be able to fight the cough and cold easily. If your baby is having a cold just add a pinch of nutmeg powder to the warm milk or dal or khichri and offer it to them.

Read Also: Fennel Seeds For Babies – Benefits And Precautions