Fashion

5 Surprising Skin & Hair Benefits Of Nutmeg

by Miki Hayes

Nutmeg. You know that delicious stuff sometimes sprinkled in hot chocolate or coffee? Turns out this spice can do much more than just amp up a hot beverage. I recently sprinkled some nutmeg in my hair to serve as a sort of hair perfume, per a medieval recommendation. I found that not only did my hair smell quite delicious, but I also noticed a little extra volume. Unsure if I was simply seeing things, I did a little digging, and found that nutmeg indeed offers hair benefits along with some pretty amazing skin ones too.

Nutmeg has quite a few properties to make it a sort of super-skin food. That is, it's antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and has antioxidant benefits to boot. So where you might use multiple other products to help with issues like acne, eczema, and aging skin, nutmeg itself can tackle all of these concerns. Of course if you'd rather taste your nutmeg than just smell it, benefits can still be reaped from adding a pinch or two to meals instead of a face wash. Adding some nutmeg to warm milk can even help induce relaxation if you need to catch up on some beauty sleep. But let's not forget about hair. Healthy locks can be restored with just a few drops of nutmeg oil. Curious? Here's how to have your best skin and hair by simply adding some nutmeg into your beauty routine. And yes, your face and hair will smell utterly delicious.

1. For A Radiant Complexion

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Because of its skin benefits, nutmeg oil is often found in face cleansers and moisturizers. But you can cut to the chase by simply massaging some nutmeg oil into your face. Of course, you can also mix some in with your current skin products for healthy, glowing skin.

2. For Clearer Skin

The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of nutmeg make it work wonders for clearing up breakouts and even help fade acne marks. Try massaging a mixture of ground nutmeg, milk, and honey on your face for a couple of minutes before rinsing off with warm water.

3. For Reduced Wrinkles

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Nutmeg also contains anti-aging properties. Because it promotes circulation and fights free radicals, nutmeg oil helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles. Try a mask that has more time to sit on the skin:

  • 1 teaspoon of honey
  • 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
  • 1 pinch of ground cinnamon
  • 1 pinch of ground nutmeg

4. For Shiny Hair

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Although nutmeg oil can often be found in hair products, it can also be added to your favorite shampoo and conditioner for shiny, strong, and healthy hair.

5. For More Hair

But not only can nutmeg oil help hair become stronger and shinier, it can also prevent hair fall, encourage hair growth, and even add extra volume. All you have to do is massage a couple of drops of nutmeg oil into your scalp.

Images: Getty Images (3); Giphy (2)