Myristica Gronov. (from the Nutmeg Family)
Aka Myristica fragrans Houtt.
Location: Tropical Regions of Africa, Asia, and Europe
Myristica fragrans is a nice looking tree that is popularly grown and cultivated for nutmeg. Nutmeg comes from the pods which are easily recognizable and provide a sweet smell. The pods are large, round and have red aril protecting the seed.
Although there are many rumors about using nutmeg to get high, most people do not understand how it was traditionally used to actually experience intoxicating effects. The herb itself produces a fruit, really a seed that provides an aromatic oil. The psychotropic activity is largely due to the aromatic ethers of myristicine (although there are a few others). Eating nutmeg from a container is not the same as working with a botanical plant or proper extract. However, nutmeg is most definitely psychoactive and induces intoxication in high quantities. This intoxicating feeling is usually described as as dissociation, or a separation from the body and from reality. It is possible to experience hallucinations, both audible and visual. Very commonly afterwards, however, a hang over and other unpleasant sick-like effects are experienced.