Myristicin

Myristicin, derived from Myristica fragans of nutmeg, is a naturally occurring phenylpropane derivative, a pungent drug responsible for the toxicity of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans). Myristicin is a light yellow, pungent-tasting liquid that smells strongly of nutmeg and is easily soluble in ethanol. Myristicin acts as an MAO inhibitor and has a hallucinogenic effect due to its metabolites, which are similar to mescaline.

Myristicin is also found in dill (Anethum graveolens), lovage (Levisticum officinale) and parsley (Petroselinum crispum).

1. Hallström H et al (997) Toxicological evaluation of myristicin. Nat Toxins. 5: 186-192.
2. Stein U et al (2001) Nutmeg (myristicin) poisoning--report on a fatal case and a series of cases recorded by a poison information centre. Forensic Sci Int 118:87-90.