1 tablespoon (5.3g) of ground mace has 25 calories. Mace is a spice derived from the reddish webbing that covers the nutmeg seed. It has a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor that is similar to nutmeg but more delicate.

Apart from adding flavor to your dishes, mace offers several health benefits. It is a good source of antioxidants and has been shown to aid in digestion, elevate mood, promote oral health, provide pain relief, and improve sleep quality.

This article will take a closer look at what mace is, the history of its use, and its culinary and health benefits.

What is Mace?

As mentioned earlier, mace comes from the reddish webbing that covers the nutmeg seed. After the nutmeg fruit is harvested and cracked open, the mace is carefully separated from the seed and dried. The dried mace is then sold whole or ground into a powder. Mace has been used in cooking for centuries and is a popular spice in Asian, Middle Eastern, and European cuisines. It is often used in baked goods, soups, stews, and sauces and pairs well with cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.

History of Mace

Mace has a long history of use in traditional medicine and was believed to cure digestive problems, insomnia, and anxiety. It was also used as a natural painkiller and was applied topically to relieve pain and inflammation. In the 15th century, mace was one of the most valuable spices in Europe and was considered a symbol of power and wealth. It was heavily traded and used by nobles to flavor their food, and even to freshen their breath.

Culinary Uses of Mace

Mace is a versatile spice that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It has a subtle, delicate flavor and should be used sparingly as it can easily overpower other spices. Mace is often used in baking and pairs well with cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. It can be added to pies, cakes, and cookies for a warm, spicy flavor. Mace is also used in savory dishes like soups, stews, and sauces to add depth and warmth.

Health Benefits of Mace

Apart from its culinary uses, mace offers several health benefits. It is a good source of antioxidants, which protect the body from free radicals and oxidative damage. Mace has also been shown to aid in digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes in the stomach. It can soothe an upset stomach and ease symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas.

Mace as an Antioxidant

Mace is a rich source of antioxidants, which provide a variety of health benefits. Antioxidants protect the body from harmful free radicals, which can cause oxidative damage and contribute to aging and disease. Mace contains several antioxidants, including myristicin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. These antioxidants can help boost the immune system, promote heart health, and lower the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and diabetes.

Mace for Digestive Health

Mace has long been used as a natural remedy to treat digestive problems. It can stimulate the production of digestive enzymes in the stomach and intestines, which can improve digestion and relieve symptoms like bloating, gas, and constipation. Mace also has antibacterial properties and can help eliminate harmful bacteria in the stomach and intestines. This can reduce the risk of infections and improve overall digestive health.

Mace as a Mood Enhancer

Mace has been shown to have mood-enhancing properties and can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. It contains myristicin, which has been shown to have sedative effects and can promote feelings of relaxation and calmness. Mace also contains eugenol, which has been shown to have analgesic properties and can help relieve pain and inflammation. These mood-enhancing properties make mace a useful natural remedy for stress and anxiety.

Mace for Dental Health

Mace has antibacterial properties and can help kill harmful bacteria in the mouth that can cause tooth decay and bad breath. It also contains eugenol, which is commonly used in dental products like toothpaste and mouthwash. Mace can be used as a natural remedy to improve oral health and freshen breath. Simply chew on a small piece of mace after a meal to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath.

Mace for Pain Relief

Mace has been used as a natural remedy for pain relief for centuries. It contains several compounds, including myristicin and eugenol, which have been shown to have analgesic properties and can help relieve pain and inflammation. Mace can be used topically as a natural painkiller. Simply mix a few drops of mace oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil and massage onto the affected area to relieve pain and inflammation.

Mace for Better Sleep

Mace has been shown to have sedative properties and can promote relaxation and sleep. It contains myristicin, which has been shown to increase levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin and promote feelings of calmness and relaxation. Mace can be used as a natural remedy for insomnia and other sleep disorders. Simply mix a few drops of mace oil with a carrier oil and massage onto the temples and forehead before bedtime to promote relaxation and better sleep.