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Mace Extract

Also known as: Mace, Javitri, Nutmeg Mace, Myristica fragrans (Mace)

Overview

Mace is a spice derived from the outer covering of the nutmeg seed (*Myristica fragrans*). It is commonly used as a flavoring agent in cooking and has a history of traditional medicinal applications, particularly for digestive issues. Mace contains volatile oils, including myristicin, which may exhibit psychoactive effects at high doses. While mace has been traditionally used for various purposes, its use as a supplement lacks robust scientific backing. Most available information is based on traditional use and anecdotal evidence. Therefore, any claims about its benefits should be viewed with caution until further research is conducted. Supplement forms are less common than its culinary use as a spice. Limited systematic research exists specifically on mace extract as a supplement, and high-quality clinical trials are scarce. Further studies with proper RCT methodology and adequate sample sizes are needed to validate its potential health benefits.

Benefits

There is limited evidence on specific health benefits of mace extract as a supplement. Traditional uses suggest potential benefits for digestion and as a carminative. Some studies suggest potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but these are not well-studied in humans. No specific population benefits have been identified through rigorous clinical trials. Due to the lack of high-quality studies, effect sizes and clinical significance cannot be accurately determined. The time course of benefits is also not well-documented. Therefore, any claims about its benefits should be viewed with caution until further research is conducted.

How it works

The active compounds in mace, such as myristicin, may interact with various biological pathways, but specific mechanisms are not well-understood. It potentially interacts with the nervous and digestive systems due to its psychoactive and carminative properties. The specific molecular targets are not well-defined, and there is limited data on the bioavailability of mace extract components. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms of action.

Side effects

Mace is generally considered safe when used in small amounts as a spice. However, high doses may cause adverse effects due to myristicin. Common side effects are not well-documented for supplement use. Uncommon side effects include the potential for psychoactive effects at high doses. Rare side effects are not well-documented. Potential drug interactions may occur with sedatives or other central nervous system depressants. High doses should be avoided, especially in pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions. Caution is advised in children and pregnant women due to potential psychoactive effects.

Dosage

A minimum effective dose has not been established for supplement use. Optimal dosage ranges are not well-defined. High doses (>5 grams) should be avoided due to potential toxicity. There are no specific timing considerations. It is typically used as a spice; supplement forms are less common. Absorption factors are not well-studied, and required cofactors have not been identified. Due to limited research, specific dosage recommendations cannot be provided, and caution is advised.

FAQs

Is mace safe to use as a supplement?

Mace is generally safe in small amounts as a spice. However, high doses may cause psychoactive effects and other adverse reactions. Caution is advised, especially for pregnant women and children.

What are the potential benefits of mace?

Traditional uses suggest potential benefits for digestion and as a carminative. Some studies suggest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but these are not well-studied in humans.

How should mace be taken as a supplement?

Mace is typically used as a spice rather than a supplement. If used as a supplement, caution is advised due to potential psychoactive effects. There are no well-defined dosing guidelines.

Can mace interact with medications?

Potential interactions may occur with sedatives or other central nervous system depressants. Consult with a healthcare provider before using mace supplements if you are taking any medications.

Is mace the same as nutmeg?

Mace is derived from the outer covering of the nutmeg seed, but it has distinct properties and uses. Nutmeg comes from the seed itself, while mace is from the aril (lacy covering) of the seed.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cardiovascular-medicine/articles/10.3389/fcvm.2023.1242845/full – This research article published in Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine explores novel therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular diseases. While it may not directly focus on mace, it provides insights into potential mechanisms and pathways relevant to cardiovascular health, which could indirectly relate to mace's potential effects.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6686118/ – This article discusses the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of *Myristica fragrans*. It highlights the presence of various bioactive compounds and their potential therapeutic applications, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. The review emphasizes the need for further research to validate these traditional uses with modern scientific methods.
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/11/4/1178 – This study investigates the chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils from *Myristica fragrans*. It identifies various volatile compounds and assesses their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The findings suggest potential applications in food preservation and medicine, but further research is needed to confirm these effects in vivo.
http://idealpharmacywada.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/contentabstract_merged-1.pdf – This abstract likely summarizes research related to pharmaceutical or medicinal properties. Without the full context, it's difficult to provide a specific summary, but it may contain information relevant to the pharmacological effects of compounds found in mace.
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCOUTCOMES.120.007903 – This article from the American Heart Association focuses on cardiovascular outcomes research. While not directly related to mace, it provides a framework for understanding how to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions on cardiovascular health, which could be relevant if future research explores mace's impact on cardiovascular function.