Nutmeg is an aromatic, evergreen tree with yellow flowers and fruit. It is native to the Molucca Islands (previously known as the Spice Islands), but is also grown in West Indies, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. The essential oil is steam distilled from the kernel of the fruit. Although Nutmeg is most well known as a food spice it also has a long history of medicinal use. In modern aromatherapy Nutmeg essential oil is reputed to be beneficial for the nervous system, digestive system, muscular aches and pains, and for invigorating and stimulating the mind. Nutmeg is considered to be a 'winter' oil, due to its warming properties, and can be used as an alternative to Cinnamon. (Nutmeg essential oil is more powerful than Cinnamon and care should be taken not to use it in large quantities).