Multi-functional zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONps inspired from Myristica Fragrans seed extract against cervical Cancer, pyogenic bacteria and inflammatory response. a promising potential of ZnONps in cancer nanotherapy, infection control and inflammation management

Inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B by phenolics and neolignans from Myristica fragrans seeds: Enzyme kinetics and molecular docking

Antidepressant-like effects of Myristica fragrans essential oil in mice: Involvement of the monoaminergic system

Myristica fragrans (M.fragrans) is a species within the Myristicaceae family and the Myristica genus. It is an evergreen tree plant native to Maluku and the Banda Islands. Nutmeg (dried kernel of M.fragrans) could be used not only as a spice but also as a valuable medicinal herb used in traditional ethnomedicines, including Ayurvedic medicine, Tibetan medicine, Mongolian medicine, and Chinese medicine. From previous studies, it has been found that its chemical components are lignans, neolignans, volatile oils, and other chemical components. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that nutmeg extract and its chemical constituents possess a wide range of pharmacological activities such as neurological and digestive pharmacological effects, as well as cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, potential anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant activities, and other pharmacological effects, which are closely related to its rich ethnomedical uses. There were more studies on the pharmacological activities and chemical constituents of nutmeg, but few studies had been carried out in terms of incorporating the experience of traditional medicine and systematic quality control studies. Based on botanical books, Chinese classic texts, medical monographs, and academic search engines (Pubmed, Web of Science, CNKI, Science Direct, and Wiley Online Library), this paper reviewed various aspects of nutmeg, such as its basic source, traditional use, chemical components, pharmacological activities, and mechanism of action, as well as quality control, with a view to laying a foundation for the study of the potential pharmacological activities and quality control of nutmeg and providing a theoretical basis for the further development of nutmeg.

Background: This research aims to analyze the relationship between the management of nutmeg farming businesses and farmers’ perceptions of empowerment in nutmeg commodity diversification. Diversification of commodities plays a crucial role in increasing product value and reducing waste in agricultural production. Methods: The sample in this study consists of 30 nutmeg processing entrepreneurs. Both primary and secondary data were used in this study. A qualitative analysis was conducted using NVIVO software. Result: The results reveal that the most frequently occurring word in the relationship between the management of nutmeg farming businesses and farmers’ perceptions of empowerment in nutmeg commodity diversification is “Diversification,” followed by “nutmeg commodity” and “product processing.” This suggests that the processing of nutmeg commodities is widely carried out through diversification, aimed not only at reducing nutmeg fruit waste but also at adding value to the product. Efforts made include innovations within the nutmeg commodity.

Melasma is a common pigmentary disorder causing brown, painless patches on the face, especially the cheeks, forehead, nose and upper lip. Modern treatments like lasers and steroids are costly and have side‑effects. In Ayurveda, melasma resembles _vyanga_, a _rakta‑pradoshaja_ (blood‑related) disorder classified under _kshudraroga_. Traditional Ayurvedic remedies are considered safe, effective and less likely to recur. This study develops an herbal face cream using single‑herb (_ekal dravya_) extracts—*nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)* for anti‑inflammation, *licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)* for its tyrosinase‑inhibiting glabridin, and *manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)* for blood‑purification and complexion enhancement.

Myristica fragrans: A comprehensive review of its botanical characterization, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties.

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by an increase in blood glucose levels. The bark of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) is known to have antihyperglycemic potential because it contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and saponins. The nutmeg plant has benefits as an antidiabetic, antifungal, and antibacterial agent. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of 96% ethanol extract of nutmeg bark as a blood glucose-lowering agent in male mice (Mus musculus) induced with streptozotocin. Method: This experimental research was conducted on 25 mice using a randomized design, divided into five groups of five mice each. The material was extracted using the maceration method with 95% ethanol. Results: Diabetes in mice was induced with streptozotocin at a dose of 40 mg/kg BW. Group I received 1% Na-CMC (negative control), Group II received glibenclamide (positive control), and Groups III–V received ethanol extract of nutmeg bark at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg BW, which reduced glucose levels by 11.3%, 12.7%, and 13.9%, respectively. One Way ANOVA analysis showed a p value < 0.05, indicating a significant difference in blood glucose reduction among the concentrations of 96% ethanol extract of nutmeg bark. Conclusion: The 96% ethanol extract of nutmeg bark has been proven to have an antihyperglycemic effect, with the most effective dose at 200 mg/kg BW.Bottom of Form.

BackgroundNutmeg (Myristica fragrans) has been traditionally used in herbal medicine, but its potential anti-cancer effects remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms of nutmeg against bladder cancer through an integrated strategy combining network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vitro validation.MethodsActive compounds of nutmeg were retrieved from the TCMSP and PubChem databases using oral bioavailability (OB ≥30%) and drug-likeness (DL ≥0.18) as criteria. Potential targets were predicted using SwissTargetPrediction and cross-referenced with bladder cancer-related genes from GeneCards, OMIM, and TTD. Common targets were analyzed by STRING, Cytoscape, and DAVID for PPI, GO, and KEGG enrichment. Molecular docking was performed to evaluate binding affinities between candidate compounds and core targets. In vitro experiments, including CCK-8, colony formation, wound-healing, Transwell, flow cytometry, and Western blotting, were conducted to validate the anti-tumor effects of β-sitosterol on T24 and 5637 bladder cancer cells.ResultsNine active compounds were identified, with β-sitosterol emerging as the key candidate. A total of 284 overlapping targets were obtained between nutmeg and bladder cancer. GO and KEGG enrichment suggested significant involvement in apoptosis and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Molecular docking showed that β-sitosterol exhibited strong binding to BCL-2 (–8.6 kcal/mol) and CASP3 (–8.3 kcal/mol). In vitro, β-sitosterol significantly reduced cell viability (IC50: 50 μM for 5637, 60 μM for T24), inhibited proliferation, colony formation, and migration, and induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Western blot confirmed upregulation of Bax and cleaved Caspase-3 and downregulation of BCL-2.ConclusionThis study demonstrates that β-sitosterol, a major bioactive compound of nutmeg, suppresses bladder cancer progression by modulating the BCL-2/Bax/Caspase-3 axis and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. These findings provide novel insights into the therapeutic potential of nutmeg as a complementary strategy for bladder cancer treatment.

Starch-integrated alginate-based ternary hydrogel beads-loaded with mace extract-arils of Myristica fragrans: Composition-dependent Hertzian elasticity, swelling and adsorptive properties.

Preliminary phytochemical screening, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Myristica fragrans family myristicaceae

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a toxic and carcinogenic secondary metabolite produced by Aspergillus species, particularly A. flavus and A. parasiticus, which often contaminates food. One promising strategy to control AFB1 toxicity and inhibit the growth of A. flavus is to use non-pathogenic yeasts. This study aimed to isolate yeasts from fruits and nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) seeds and to evaluate their ability to reduce AFB1 levels and inhibit A. flavus. We also conducted whole-genome analysis on selected yeast isolates to identify genes potentially involved in AFB1 reduction and fungal inhibition. We successfully obtained three yeast isolates, among which Pseudozyma hubeiensis BUP reduced AFB1 contamination by 53.03%, as detected by HPLC analysis. Based on a hemolysis assay, the BUP isolate was also confirmed to be non-pathogenic. In addition, BUP inhibited the growth of A. flavus by 46.1% in a dual-culture assay. Genome sequencing using the DNBSEQ platform produced an assembly of 18,648,523 base pairs segmented into 33 scaffolds comprising 38 contigs. Putative genes in the BUP genome potentially involved in AFB1 reduction include lactonase, cutinase, peroxidase, and aflatoxin B1 aldehyde reductase (AKR7). These results suggest that P. hubeiensis BUP has strong potential to decontaminate AFB1 and inhibit the growth of A. flavus. Further research will focus on elucidating AFB1 degradation pathways using LC-MS/MS and evaluating the in vivo efficacy of BUP in controlling A. flavus contamination in nutmeg seeds.

ABSTRACT In this study, we have examined and compared the effect of both light and dark on the synthesis of silver nanoparticles(Ag NPs)in water and DMSO using Moringa oleifera leaves and Myristica fragrans seeds. To verify AgNP formation, shape, and stability, the produced nanoparticles were subjected to UV–visual spectroscopy. Further comparative antibacterial broth culture approach was being carried out in order to establish their role as inhibitors. Analysis of the effects of light conditions on the rate of synthesis of AgNPs showed that, in contrast to dark settings, sunlight greatly improved the reaction kinetics. Because of the increased energy availability, exposure to sunlight accelerated the reduction of silver ions to AgNPs, producing smaller and more homogeneous particles. From the UV analysis of AgNPs, sunlight mediated AgNPs and dark mediated AgNPs prepared in water and DMSO at different concentrations, we found that the size of the nanoparticle gets effected. Sunlight induced aqueous Ag NPs from Myristica fragans seeds showed a significant reduction of E.coli growth in broth followed by dark induced Ag NP in DMSO from Myristica fragans . This study highlights the potential of Ag NPs made from plant extracts as an effective and natural way to fight bacterial infections, which may find use in the pharmaceutical, medical, and environmental domains.

Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an opportunistic pathogen with a strong capacity for biofilm formation, which enhances resistance to antibiotics. Although nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) seeds and mace have been extensively studied, research on nutmeg leaves is limited despite their content of flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and triterpenoids with antimicrobial potential. Objective: This study evaluated the antibiofilm activity of nutmeg leaf extract against MRSA biofilm formation in vitro. Materials and Methods: Biofilm assays were conducted using MRSA isolates. The optimal incubation time for biofilm formation was first determined, followed by treatment with nutmeg leaf extract. Results: MRSA formed optimal biofilms at 48 h (OD = 0.101 ± 0.012). Nutmeg leaf extract significantly reduced biofilm formation (OD = 0.083 ± 0.010) compared with the negative control (OD = 0.118 ± 0.009) and the positive control, tetracycline (OD = 0.096 ± 0.011) (p = 0.001). While the reduction was statistically significant, the difference from tetracycline was modest. Conclusion: Nutmeg leaf extract demonstrated significant antibiofilm activity against MRSA in vitro. These findings support its potential as a complementary natural agent for managing biofilm-associated infections, warranting further studies to isolate active compounds and assess synergistic effects with standard antibiotics.

Abstract Meat represents a globally consumed commodity, but its high nutrient content makes it susceptible to spoilage, thus reducing quality and shelf life. Natural preservatives like essential oils (EOs) offer a sustainable preservation alternative. Previous studies have revealed the antimicrobial activity of clove and nutmeg EOs, yet their potential for food bio-preservation remains unknown. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of clove and nutmeg EOs as natural food preservatives in meat. The methods used in this study included antibacterial activity testing using the disc diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli , and Salmonella typhi. In situ analysis to evaluate the preservative activity of EOs in raw minced meat was performed using the micro-atmosphere method. Clove EO exhibited strong activity, forming inhibition zones at 25% (v/v) against all target bacterias, while nutmeg EO required 100% (v/v) for significant effects. The combination with a higher proportion of clove (9:1) produced the largest inhibition zone diameter. Application of the micro-atmosphere method using a 9:1 combination of clove and nutmeg EOs proved most effective in suppressing bacterial growth in meat across all growth media. This study demonstrates that clove and nutmeg EOs can be utilized through their vapor phase to inhibit spoilage microorganism growth. This supports their potential as effective and environmentally friendly bio-preservatives in the food industry.

Abstract Copper oxide/reduced graphene oxide (CuO:rGO) nanocomposites were synthesized through an eco‐friendly, cost‐effective, and time‐efficient green route using Myristica Fragrans Houtt (nutmeg) leaf extract as both reducing and capping agent. The presence of the (002) plane of rGO along with the reduced intensity of CuO peaks confirms the successful integration of CuO nanoparticles onto rGO layers. The absence of impurity peaks or phytochemical signals indicates the high purity of the nanocomposites and further validated by FTIR analysis. FESEM images show CuO forming large clusters of smaller spherical particles, while CuO:rGO images reveal nanoparticles anchored to rGO sheets, suggesting improved aggregation control. HRTEM analysis corroborates the structural and morphological findings. UV–Vis DRS spectra reveal a band gap reduction from 1.89 eV (CuO) to 1.64 eV (CuO:rGO), signifying enhanced optical charge transfer. PL analysis shows defect‐related peaks, which are advantageous for antibacterial activity. Agar well diffusion tests demonstrate superior antibacterial efficacy of CuO:rGO nanocomposites against bacterial pathogens including Escherichia coli ( E. coli ), Bacillus cereus ( B. cereus ), Bacillus subtilis ( B. subtilis ), Staphylococcus epidermidis ( S. epidermidis ), and Staphylococcus aureus ( S. aureus ), compared to pure rGO and CuO. These results highlight the strong potential of CuO:rGO nanocomposites in biomedical applications.

Neolignans and diarylnonanoid derivatives from the seed of Myristica fragrans Houtt. and their cytotoxic activities against human ovarian cancer cell lines

Introduction: Myristica fragrans have been reported to have psychoactive properties due to the presence of myristicin one of its metabolites. This property has made it an attraction for teenagers and seamen to use it as a cheap source of recreational drug, thereby abusing it. Aim: The purpose of this research was to determine the secondary metabolites of ethanol seed extract of Myristical fragrans and to assess its effects on the histoarchitecture of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of adult Wistar rats. Methods: Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening were conducted to assess for secondary metabolites, while toxicological test was done to determine the median lethal dose (LD50) of the extract. Thirty (30) male Wistar rats weighing 130 gram to 150 gram were randomly divided into five groups of six rats each. Group I (control, received 2 ml/kg body weight of distilled water), Groups II, III and IV received ESMF (500 mg/kg body weight of extract; 1000 mg/kg body weight of extract, and 1500 mg/kg body weight of extract, respectively), group V received 1mg/kg body weight of methylphenidate drug. All administrations were done orally for 28 days. The rats were euthanized, brain tissues were harvested, fixated in neutral buffered formalin and processed for hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) stain for general histoarchitecture of the VTA, Cresyl fast stain for Nissl bodies and Imunohistochemical stain for BCl-2 reactivity. Results: Revealed the presence of secondary metabolites; alkaloids and phenolic compounds, and indicated that ethanol seed extract of Myristica fragrans at higher doses elicited neurodegenerative changes in the forms of necrotic nuclei, vacuolations and loss of Nissl substances seen as reduced staining intensity in ventral tegmental area of Wistar rats, and mild reactivity for BCl-2 proteins. Conclusion; Ethanol seed extract of Myristica fragrans contains secondary metabolites that elicited neurodegenerative changes in the VTA of male Wistar rats.

This study investigates the antimicrobial efficacy, synergistic interactions, antibiofilm activity, molecular docking studies, and drug-likeness properties of α-terpineol, 4-carvomenthenol, and their derivatives isolated from nutmeg and mace (Myristica fragrans Houtt.). α-Terpineol and 4-carvomenthenol were isolated from nutmeg essential oil and mace oleoresin respectively using column chromatography. Derivatization of α-Terpineol was derivatized into its ester, epoxide, ether, and allylic bromide while 4-carvomenthenol was derivatized to form its ester and epoxide. The antimicrobial activity of isolated compounds and their derivatives was assessed against Bacillus sp., Staphylococcus aureus, Yersinia enterocolitica and Escherichia coli followed by testing of their synergistic interactions with streptomycin. Additionally, the antibiofilm activity of the most effective treatments alone and in combination with was tested in combination with streptomycin was also evaluated. Molecular docking studies were conducted to assess binding affinities of the most effective treatments for DNA gyrase and transpeptidase followed byADMET profiling to evaluate their drug-likeness. The ester derivatives of α-terpineol and 4-carvomenthenol demonstrated the highest antibacterial potential with MIC values ranging from 40 to 170 µg/ml. Both the ester derivatives showed significant synergistic interactions with streptomycin and exhibited strong to intermediate antibiofilm activity against all the tested bacteria. Molecular docking studies indicated favorable binding affinities (–6.56 to − 4.31 kcal/mol) of ester derivatives for DNA gyrase and transpeptidase as compared to their parent compounds having favorable physicochemical properties, meeting drug-likeness criteria. α-Terpineol ester and 4-carvomenthenol ester exhibited promising antimicrobial potential, synergistic interaction with streptomycin and antibiofilm properties, suggesting their potential as novel therapeutic agents. Further development and investigation of these compounds are warranted to explore their applications in clinical settings.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-025-03152-y.

The integration of essential oils (EOs) with biological control agents offers a promising alternative to synthetic pesticides, though compatibility remains unclear. This study evaluated nutmeg (Myristica fragrans, NM), cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum, CIN), and clove (Syzygium aromaticum, CL) specifically on S. oryzae and L. distinguendus. Olfactory and behavioral responses to whole EOs and major constituents (myristicin, cinnamaldehyde, eugenol) were analyzed using the area preference method (APM) and two-choice behavioral bioassay (TCB), with confirmation by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In S. oryzae, APM showed attraction to all three EOs (PI = 0.14 to 0.56). A paradox emerged, however, as single constituents were mostly repellent (eugenol: PI = −0.58 to −0.70; cinnamaldehyde: PI shifted from 0.16 to −0.20), underscoring the complexity of EO mixtures where multiple compounds act jointly rather than individually. In contrast, L. distinguendus strongly avoided CL and CIN in TCB, with fewer than 30% of parasitoids choosing the EO-treated side (χ2 test, p < 0.05). CIN therefore demonstrated selective potential, simultaneously attracting S. oryzae while repelling L. distinguendus. These findings highlight the dual role of EOs as botanical pest control tools, while stressing the need to consider non-target effects before practical application.