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Myristica oil
Definition
Myristica oil is a clear liquid that smells like the spice nutmeg. Myristica oil poisoning occurs when someone swallows this substance.
Alternative Names
Nutmeg oilPoisonous Ingredient
Myristica oil (Myristica fragrans), which comes from the seed of a nutmeg.
Where Found
- Aromatherapy products
- Mace
- Nutmeg
Note: This list may not include all sources of myristica oil.
Symptoms
- Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
- Double vision
- Dry mouth
- Eye irritation
- Gastrointestinal
- Abdominal pain
- Dehydration
- Nausea
- Heart and blood
- Convulsions
- Rapid heartbeat
- Nervous system
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Brief euphoria (exaggerated feeling of well-being)
- Delirium
- Drowsiness
- Hallucinations
- Light-headedness
Home Care
Seek immediate medical help. Do NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by Poison Control or a health care professional.
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:
- Patient's age, weight, and condition
- Name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
- Time it was swallowed
- Amount swallowed
Poison Control
The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.
This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
See: Poison control center - emergency number
What to Expect at the Emergency Room
The health care provider will measure and monitor your vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. You may receive:
- Fluids by IV
Outlook (Prognosis)
How well you do depends on the amount of poison swallowed and how quickly treatment is received. The faster you get medical help, the better the chance for recovery.
This material is not very toxic. Recovery is likely.
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
