Young adults throughout history think of themselves as invincible. They drive recklessly, re-enact stunts from the movie “Jackass”, and will try to find cheap unique ways of getting high. It’s a wonder that the human population has survived this long. There are the normal teenage antics, and then there are those that are a bit extreme. Kids are going to experiment with drugs and alcohol that goes without saying; however some teens will take it a bit further. Recently a new phenomenon has caught on, getting high off the common household spice nutmeg. If teens are desperate and stupid enough to attempt a high off of nutmeg then they seriously need to consider treatment at a residential rehabilitation center for drug counseling and rehabilitation.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is commonly found in foods such as cookies or egg nog. Recipes tend to call for a pinch of nutmeg, as a little goes a long way. Nutmeg does however contain a psychoactive compound. Myristicin if taken in large amounts can induce hallucinations and other ‘high’ like effects. This has lead to its abuse among young adults seeking alternative ways to get high. However, this is very dangerous and can lead to long lasting damage.
Psychoactive Components
Myristicin is an organic compound found in nutmeg. It contains psychoactive properties which can lead to hallucinations and other effects. It is a naturally occurring compound that can also be found in natural insecticides. It is known as a neurotoxin and has neurotoxic effects on humans, which means it affects the brain. The FDA only regulated nutmeg as a food, because that is its purpose. An overdose of nutmeg which is four or more teaspoons can create a flu-like high and has very hazardous side effects.
Effects
There are many side effects of a nutmeg induced high. These include; nausea and vomiting, dizziness, dry mouth, states of paranoia, urinary problems, and a hangover from hell. Another reaction includes a warm sensation running through limbs. Some reports compare the nutmeg ‘high’ to a bout with the flu. Often those seeking a high do not realize that it can take up to six hours before any effects to be felt. This is very dangerous as it can lead to a nutmeg poisoning which requires medical attention.
Nutmeg Poisoning
Aside from the side effects there are other dangers associated with nutmeg intoxication. The effects vary from person to person, which is why it is so dangerous. In high amounts the nutmeg ‘high’ can last up to several days. Those who actually have come down with nutmeg poisoning need to seek medical treatment right away. Other dangerous side effects of recreational nutmeg use include; nausea, collapse, tachycardia, anxiety, headache, hallucinations, and irrational behavior. The levels of myristicin in the blood can determine whether or not a poisoning has occurred.
Today, parents have to keep alcohol, whip cream cans, and many other household substances away from their teens. Nutmeg is just another substance added to the list. Teens assume that because it is a commonly found item, that it is not dangerous to attempt a high. They are sadly mistaken. Any teen that seeks a high or seeks intoxication should check themselves into a residential rehab. There they will receive the drug counseling and rehabilitation they so desperately need.