Myristicaceae

Myristicaceae is a family of flowering plants, commonly known as the nutmeg family. This family includes trees and shrubs, with a predominantly tropical distribution. The most well-known member of this family is Myristica fragrans, which produces nutmeg and mace. Myristicaceae comprises about 20 genera and over 400 species.

Plants in the Myristicaceae family are characterized by their aromatic properties. Many species contain volatile oils that are used in perfumery and traditional medicine. The leaves are typically simple, alternate, and exstipulate. The flowers are usually unisexual, with male and female flowers borne on separate plants or on the same plant in different inflorescences. The fruit is a fleshy drupe or capsule, which splits open to reveal a seed surrounded by a fleshy aril. This aril is the source of nutmeg and mace.

The economic importance of Myristicaceae is primarily due to Myristica fragrans. Nutmeg, the seed, is used as a spice in cooking and baking. Mace, the aril, is also used as a spice and has medicinal applications. Other species in the family have localized uses for their timber, oils, or medicinal properties. Research continues into the phytochemical diversity and potential applications of various Myristicaceae species.