Can Nutmeg Really Make You Hallucinate?

Why nutmeg causes hallucinations in high doses

The reason high doses of nutmeg can lead to intoxication is due to the presence of compounds myristicin and elemicin. Myristicin shares similarities with MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy. It functions as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, which means it hinders the breakdown of mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain. Interestingly, monoamine oxidase inhibitors were the first type of antidepressants developed, but they have since fallen out of favor due to safety concerns and side effects. While this may not seem alarming, when metabolized, myristicin can produce amphetamine-like derivatives and mimic anticholinergic toxicity, leading to symptoms such as flushing, fever, urinary retention, hallucinations, restlessness, confusion, agitation, delirium, and seizures, among others.

Likewise, elemicin possesses hallucinogenic properties and can function as an anticholinergic. This compound is structurally akin to the psychedelic mescaline, a naturally occurring alkaloid primarily found in the peyote cactus. Mescaline has been utilized by Native Americans in religious ceremonies for thousands of years and is largely legal in the United States.

Consuming large amounts of nutmeg, which contains these two compounds, can result in various complications, with intoxication taking hours to manifest and potentially lasting for days. In addition to hallucinations, common effects of nutmeg intoxication include drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Other possible side effects may involve respiratory and cardiovascular distress, as well as gastrointestinal issues. So, while you can certainly enjoy nutmeg in your homemade pumpkin spice lattes, it's wise to remember that moderation is key with this spice.