TREATMENT OF ORAL ULCERS USING MYRISTICA FRAGRANS (NUTMEG), AN HERBAL MEDICINE– A REVIEW ARTICLE

Abstract

Myristica fragrans, commonly known as nutmeg, has been shown to have many medicinal properties including reduction of plaque and oral halitosis Myristica fragrans is a spice belonging to the family Myristicaceae. It has been cultivated throughout the world and used for food flavouring, essential oil applications and in traditional medicines. Mostly nutmeg contains terpenes and phenylpropenes. Chemical composition of these constituents varies due to different cultivation conditions. Nutmeg is considered as essential ingredient of numerous industrial applications ranging from food to cosmetics. Its pharmaceutical products are also important due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. More uses and applications of nutmeg by-products are continuously added. Nutmeg is used as a constituent in preparations of medicines such as for dysentery, flatulence, stomach-ache, nausea, vomiting, rheumatism, sciatica, malaria and early stages of leprosy.