Nutmeg, a common spice, has been associated with psychoactive effects when consumed in large quantities. This has led some to question whether a nutmeg and water mixture can mimic the effects of cocaine. This article explores the effects of nutmeg intoxication and compares them to the effects of cocaine.
Nutmeg Intoxication: What Does the Research Say?
Research on nutmeg intoxication is limited, but several studies and case reports document the dangerous side effects of consuming too much myristicin, the psychoactive compound in nutmeg. Reports of nutmeg “intoxication” date back to the 16th century. However, scientific investigation into myristicin’s effects on the central nervous system began in the 19th century.
One case report describes an 18-year-old female experiencing nausea, dizziness, heart palpitations, dry mouth, and a trance-like state after consuming 50 grams of nutmeg in a milkshake. Another case study documented a 37-year-old female experiencing similar symptoms, including dizziness, confusion, grogginess, and extreme dry mouth, after consuming just two teaspoons (approximately 10 grams) of nutmeg. In both cases, symptoms appeared within hours, lasted for about 10 hours, and resolved completely after observation.
A 10-year review by the Illinois Poison Center revealed over 30 documented cases of nutmeg poisoning, with almost half being intentional. Unintentional exposure was most common in children under 13. Common symptoms included hallucinations, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, confusion, and, in two cases, seizures. Other side effects included respiratory, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal issues.
Comparing Nutmeg Intoxication to Cocaine Use
While both nutmeg and cocaine can alter mental state, they achieve this through different mechanisms and with vastly different effects. Cocaine primarily affects dopamine levels in the brain, leading to euphoria, increased energy, and heightened alertness. Conversely, nutmeg’s psychoactive effects are attributed to myristicin, which is believed to act on the central nervous system by affecting serotonin and norepinephrine levels.
The “high” from nutmeg is often described as more of a delirious and disorienting experience, often accompanied by unpleasant side effects like nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, and intense anxiety. These effects are far less predictable and significantly more dangerous than those of cocaine. Moreover, the onset of nutmeg intoxication can be delayed for several hours, making it difficult to gauge the appropriate dosage and increasing the risk of accidental overdose.
Cocaine’s effects are typically rapid and intense, but also short-lived, leading to a higher potential for addiction and abuse. While nutmeg can also cause adverse health effects, its slow onset, prolonged duration of effects, and generally unpleasant experience make it less likely to be abused recreationally. Crucially, nutmeg intoxication lacks the intensely euphoric and reinforcing properties of cocaine.
Conclusion
While large doses of nutmeg can produce altered states of consciousness, comparing it to cocaine is inaccurate and misleading. The effects, mechanisms of action, and potential for abuse are significantly different. Nutmeg intoxication is characterized by unpleasant and potentially dangerous side effects, whereas cocaine produces a more intense, but short-lived, euphoric high. It is crucial to understand that using nutmeg as a recreational drug is risky and can lead to serious health consequences.
