Jaiphal | Nutmeg | जायफल

What is Jaiphal?

Jaiphal (nutmeg) is the seed kernel of the evergreen nutmeg tree, Myristica fragrans. The same fruit also gives javitri (mace), the lacy red covering around the seed. In India, nutmeg is grown mainly in Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. In Ayurveda it is called Jatiphala (जातीफल).

Jaiphal in other languages

How to choose good jaiphal

• Weight: a good nut feels heavy for its size and is never hollow or light.
• Surface: oval, grey-brown with a fine net-like pattern, and no insect holes or powdery patches.
• The needle test: press a needle or pin into the nut. A fresh nut releases a little aromatic oil.
• Aroma: when grated it smells warm, sweet and spicy. A stale nut smells dusty.

Traditional uses

• At bedtime: a small pinch of grated jaiphal in warm milk is a traditional Indian night-time drink.
• For digestion: used in small amounts as a warming digestive spice.
• In winter: valued in Ayurveda as a warming (ushna) spice for cold weather.
• For the skin: rubbed on a stone with a little milk or water to make a paste for traditional face packs.
• In the kitchen: garam masala, biryani, kheer, halwa, sevaiyan and winter laddoos.

These are traditional uses, not medical claims.

How to use Jaiphal

• Grate fresh: use a fine grater. A pinch is enough; nutmeg is strong.
• In milk: add a pinch (less than ¼ teaspoon) to a cup of warm milk.
• As a paste: rub the nut on a clean stone or rough plate with a few drops of milk or water.
• In cooking: grate directly over sweets, or grind with whole spices for masala.

Product details

Also see: Javitri (mace), which comes from the same fruit. Looking for jaiphal for puja? See Jaiphal Dakhni, the black, long puja jaiphal, which is not for eating.

Whole or powder?

Safety

Use only a pinch. Nutmeg is safe in cooking amounts, but large amounts (a teaspoon or more) can cause nausea, dizziness and palpitations. Do not give jaiphal to infants or young children without a paediatrician's advice. Avoid medicinal amounts during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and consult a doctor if you take regular medication. Keep out of reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jaiphal called in English?

Jaiphal is called nutmeg in English. Its botanical name is Myristica fragrans, and in Ayurveda it is called Jatiphala.

What is the difference between Jaiphal and Dakhni Jaiphal?

Jaiphal (nutmeg) is the spice used in cooking and Ayurvedic preparations. Dakhni Jaiphal is a black, long jaiphal used in puja and havan, and is not meant for eating.

What is the difference between Jaiphal and Javitri?

Both come from the same fruit. Jaiphal (nutmeg) is the hard seed; javitri (mace) is the lacy red-orange covering around it. Mace has a lighter, more delicate flavour.

Are Jaiphal and Supari the same?

No. Supari (areca nut) comes from the areca palm and is chewed with paan. Jaiphal is the seed of the nutmeg tree and is used as a spice. They only look similar.

What are the benefits of Jaiphal? (Jaiphal ke fayde)

Jaiphal is traditionally taken as a pinch in warm milk at bedtime, used as a warming digestive spice, applied as a paste in face packs, and used in sweets and garam masala. These are traditional uses, not medical claims.

How much Jaiphal can I take in a day?

Just a pinch, less than ¼ teaspoon of grated nutmeg. Large amounts can cause nausea, dizziness and palpitations.

Can Jaiphal be given to babies?

Do not give jaiphal to infants or young children without a paediatrician's advice. Nutmeg is potent even in small amounts.

How much does Jaiphal cost?

Dhanyawad Ayurved sells Jaiphal at ₹280 per 100g, whole or powder, with delivery across India.

Information reviewed by Vaidya Ravinder Arora (40+ years), Dhanyawad Ayurved Vatika, Dwarka, New Delhi. Traditional uses only; not medical advice.