Nutmeg vs Tarragon

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Nutmeg

Myristica fragrans

Digestive

Artemisia dracunculus

Digestive

Nutmeg

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Tarragon

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

A prized spice with a dark side — culinary doses are medicinal but larger amounts are dangerously psychoactive.

A culinary herb prized in French cuisine with documented digestive and sleep-promoting properties.

Active Compounds

Myristicin, Elemicin, Safrole, Eugenol

Estragole, Coumarins, Flavonoids, Ocimene

Traditional Uses

Digestive aid, Insomnia, Pain relief, Diarrhea

Digestive aid, Insomnia, Toothache, Menstrual regulation

Modern Uses

Carminative, Mild sedative, Anti-diarrheal (TCM), Hepatoprotective

Carminative, Antioxidant, Anti-diabetic potential, Mild sedative

Adult Dosage

0.5-1g powder as spice; do NOT exceed 2g

1-2g dried herb as tea 2x daily

Contraindications

Pregnancy, Psychiatric conditions, MAOI medications, Epilepsy

Pregnancy, Hormone-sensitive conditions, Bleeding disorders

Side Effects

Nausea, Hallucinations (high dose), Tachycardia, Liver damage (high dose)

GI upset, Allergic reactions (mugwort family)

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E