Herb & supplement monograph

Mace Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Mace interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Mace is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Mace is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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On this page

Mace Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Mace drug interaction appears low for most people, since nearly all reported interactions come from animal or lab research rather than human studies. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and while many carry a moderate rating, almost every one is theoretical rather than documented in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The best-supported concern involves phenobarbital, where animal research suggests mace could weaken its effects, which would matter for anyone relying on it for seizure control. Mace also contains oils with sedative properties, so combining medicinal amounts with sedating medications could add to drowsiness. Animal findings also hint mace may enhance immunosuppressants such as transplant drugs, where even small changes in effect can be meaningful.

What the rest of the list means

A long list of interacting medications does not mean every combination is harmful. Most entries here trace back to a single theoretical idea, such as mace possibly affecting an enzyme the body uses to clear certain medications, which multiplies into hundreds of drugs on paper. These predicted effects have not been confirmed in people, and typical culinary amounts of mace are unlikely to raise the same questions as concentrated supplements.

Check your medications against Mace

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Mace interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Mace

500 medications have a known interaction with Mace, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
6-mercaptopurinePurinethol
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Animal research suggests that mace lignans can suppress immune function.

Read the full Mace + 6-mercaptopurine interaction 6-mercaptopurine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AbrocitinibCibinqo
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Animal research suggests that mace lignans can suppress immune function.

Read the full Mace + Abrocitinib interaction Abrocitinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcepromazineAtravet
Moderate Cns Depressants

Several volatile oils in mace, such as methyleugenol, isoeugenol, safrole, myristicin, 1,8-cineole, and geranyl acetate, seem to have sedative effects.

Read the full Mace + Acepromazine interaction
AcetaminophenChildren's Tylenol, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Tylenol, Tylenol Ex Strength
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen interaction Acetaminophen drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Acetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interaction
Acetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, ButalbitalAxocet, Bancap, Bucet, Butex Forte, Esgic CF, Orbivan CF +5 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Butalbital interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interaction Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
Moderate Cns Depressants

Several volatile oils in mace, such as methyleugenol, isoeugenol, safrole, myristicin, 1,8-cineole, and geranyl acetate, seem to have sedative effects.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
Moderate Cns Depressants

Several volatile oils in mace, such as methyleugenol, isoeugenol, safrole, myristicin, 1,8-cineole, and geranyl acetate, seem to have sedative effects.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
Moderate Cns Depressants

Several volatile oils in mace, such as methyleugenol, isoeugenol, safrole, myristicin, 1,8-cineole, and geranyl acetate, seem to have sedative effects.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic GG
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylephrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS, Histex SR, Protid
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic, Rhinogesic JR
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineAlumadrine, Conex, Sinadrin Max Strength, Sinulin
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, OpiumHista-Derfule
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, PhenyltoloxamineNorel Plus
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system.

Read the full Mace + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Phenyltoloxamine interaction
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Mace combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Mace affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Mace is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 4 drug categories Mace interacts with
Cns DepressantsCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) SubstratesImmunosuppressantsPhenobarbital (luminal)
Cns Depressants

Several volatile oils in mace, such as methyleugenol, isoeugenol, safrole, myristicin, 1,8-cineole, and geranyl acetate, seem to have sedative effects. Evidence from animal research suggests that methyleugenol can induce anesthesia for a similar duration as pentobarbital. Due to the sedative effects of certain mace constituents, taking medicinal amounts of mace in combination with other CNS depressants may have additive effects. However, evidence from other animal research suggests that myristicin can reduce sleeping time in rats pretreated with phenobarbital. Until more is known, use medicinal amounts of mace cautiously in combination with CNS depressants. Some CNS depressants include clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), phenobarbital (Donnatal), zolpidem (Ambien), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Animal research suggests that intraperitoneal injections of myristicin, a constituent of mace, can induce cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme system. Theoretically, concomitant use of mace with drugs metabolized by CYP1A2 may increase the clearance of these drugs and reduce their effects. Some substrates of CYP1A2 include clozapine (Clozaril), cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril), fluvoxamine (Luvox), haloperidol (Haldol), imipramine (Tofranil), mexiletine (Mexitil), olanzapine (Zyprexa), pentazocine (Talwin), propranolol (Inderal), tacrine (Cognex), theophylline, zileuton (Zyflo), zolmitriptan (Zomig), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Animal research suggests that mace lignans can suppress immune function. Theoretically, concomitant use might enhance the effects of immunosuppressant drugs. Immunosuppressant drugs include azathioprine (Imuran), basiliximab (Simulect), cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), daclizumab (Zenapax), muromonab-CD3 (OKT3, Orthoclone OKT3), mycophenolate (CellCept), tacrolimus (FK506, Prograf), sirolimus (Rapamune), prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone), and other corticosteroids (glucocorticoids).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Evidence from animal research suggests that myristicin, a constituent of mace, can reduce sleeping time in rats pretreated with phenobarbital. Theoretically, concomitant use may decrease the therapeutic effects of phenobarbital.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Monograph

Mace: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Mace is the lacy red covering of the nutmeg seed and comes from the same tree as nutmeg. It is mostly used as a cooking spice and in traditional medicine for digestion, but there is little solid human research to support its health uses. In normal food amounts it is generally safe, but large doses can be toxic, so use it as a spice and check with your pharmacist before taking concentrated supplements.

Scientific name
Myristica fragrans
Family
Myristicaceae
Part used
The dried red, lacy covering (aril) of the nutmeg seed
Common forms
Whole dried blades, ground powder, essential oil, capsules
People commonly use it for
  • Digestive upset and gas
  • Flavoring and culinary spice
  • Nausea
  • Appetite stimulation
  • Traditional pain or muscle relief

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Safe as a culinary spice but large or concentrated doses can be toxic.

PregnancyPossibly Unsafe

When used orally in medicinal amounts. Mace might have abortifacient activity, and its safrole content might be mutagenic.

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Mace is a spice that comes from the nutmeg tree, Myristica fragrans. The tree's seed is covered by a bright red, lacy layer called an aril. When this aril is removed and dried, it becomes mace, while the inner seed becomes nutmeg. So mace and nutmeg are two different spices from the same fruit.

The nutmeg tree is native to the Spice Islands (the Maluku Islands of Indonesia) and is now grown in other warm tropical areas, including Grenada and parts of India and Southeast Asia. Mace has a warm, slightly sweet flavor similar to nutmeg but more delicate.

People mostly use mace as a cooking spice in baked goods, sauces, and savory dishes. In traditional medicine systems, it has also been used for digestive complaints and other minor ailments.

How it works

Mace contains aromatic compounds in its essential oil, including myristicin, elemicin, eugenol, and other terpenes. These compounds give mace its smell and flavor and are thought to be responsible for many of its proposed effects.

In laboratory studies, these compounds have shown antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. Myristicin, in particular, can affect the nervous system, which is why very large amounts of mace or nutmeg can cause unusual mental and physical effects.

It is important to know that most of this information comes from test-tube and animal research. We do not have good evidence about how these mechanisms translate into real health benefits in people.

Effectiveness

Does Mace work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 2 uses evaluated
2 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.

For Mace, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 2 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dysmenorrhea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

In patients with dysmenorrhea, preliminary clinical research shows that taking a palm sap-sweetened herbal decoction 180 mL made with a combination of mace 3 grams and Cassia fistula 21 grams for 3 days starting just before expected menstruation and repeating for two menstrual cycles reduces pain by a large amount and the duration of pain by a small amount when compared with the same three days of the menstrual cycle at baseline. In addition, it was as effective as taking mefenamic acid 500 mg twice daily for 3 days starting on the first day of menstruation. When the average 3-day pain was compared, the decoction was slightly more effective than mefenamic acid. It is unclear if these are effects are due to mace, Cassia fistula, or the combination.

Sources Ref 103376
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Urinary incontinence
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

In women with mixed urinary incontinence of at least 2 months duration, preliminary clinical research shows that taking mace powder 1.5 grams twice daily for 3 months, in addition to doing pelvic floor muscle training, has a large benefit on severity of symptoms when compared with those using pelvic floor training alone.

Sources Ref 103377

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Used in normal cooking amounts, mace is generally considered safe for most people. The concern comes with large or concentrated doses. Like nutmeg, mace contains myristicin, which in high amounts can cause toxicity with symptoms such as hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. These reactions can be serious.

People with liver problems, seizure disorders, or those who are sensitive to spices should be cautious with supplements. Always keep mace and nutmeg out of reach of children, since small bodies are more affected by these compounds.

Pregnancy: Avoid medicinal or large amounts of mace during pregnancy, as it may not be safe; using it as an ordinary cooking spice is likely fine. Breastfeeding: Food-level amounts are probably okay, but avoid concentrated supplements because safety data are lacking. When in doubt, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Side effects

In food amounts, mace rarely causes problems. Some people may have allergic reactions or skin irritation, especially with the essential oil.

With large or excessive doses, side effects can include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, flushing, anxiety, confusion, and hallucinations. These effects can last many hours and may require medical attention. Concentrated mace essential oil should never be swallowed.

Mace: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Mace from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally, mace seems to be well tolerated when consumed in appropriate amounts. No adverse effects have been reported, although a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted. However, severe cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurologic, ocular, and psychiatric adverse events have been reported following high intake of the related herb nutmeg. Theoretically, high doses of mace may have similar effects, although there have been no reported cases in humans.

Topically, contact and systemic contact-type dermatitis to mace has occurred in rare cases.

  1. McKenna A, Nordt SP, Ryan J. Acute nutmeg poisoning. Eur J Emerg Med 2004;11:240-1.
  2. Abernethy MK, Becker LB. Acute nutmeg intoxication. Am J Emerg Med 1992;10:429-30.
  3. Dooms-Goossens, A., Dubelloy, R., and Degreef, H. Contact and systemic contact-type dermatitis to spices. Dermatol Clin 1990;8(1):89-93.
Reports by condition
Anxiety Psychiatric

There are no reports of adverse psychiatric events due to ingestion of mace. However, mace contains myristicin, which is structurally similar to certain hallucinogenic chemicals. High intake of nutmeg, a similar herb, has been reported to cause mild to intense visual hallucinations, auditory hallucinations, feelings of impending doom, euphoria, anxiety, disorientation, stupor, agitation, insomnia, and restlessness. Theoretically, high intake of mace may have similar effects.

  1. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  2. Sangalli BC, Chiang W. Toxicology of nutmeg abuse. Clin Toxicol 2000;38:671-8.
  3. Stein U, Greyer H, Hentschel H. Nutmeg (myristicin) poisoning-report on a fatal case and a series of cases recorded by a poison information centre. Forensic Sci Int 2001;118:87-90.
  4. Carstairs SD, Cantrell FL. The spice of life: an analysis of nutmeg exposures in California. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2011;49:177-80.
  5. Abernethy MK, Becker LB. Acute nutmeg intoxication. Am J Emerg Med 1992;10:429-30.
Cluster headache Neurologic/CNS

There are no reports of adverse neurologic or central nervous system (CNS)-related events due to ingestion of mace. However, mace contains myristicin, which is structurally similar to certain hallucinogenic chemicals. High intake of nutmeg, a similar herb, has been reported to cause headache, dizziness, drowsiness, hot and cold sensations, sensations of limb loss, convulsions, and coma. Theoretically, high intake of mace may have similar effects.

  1. Sangalli BC, Chiang W. Toxicology of nutmeg abuse. Clin Toxicol 2000;38:671-8.
  2. Panayotopoulos DJ, Chisholm DD. Hallucinogenic effect of nutmeg. Br Med J 1970;1:754.
  3. Stein U, Greyer H, Hentschel H. Nutmeg (myristicin) poisoning-report on a fatal case and a series of cases recorded by a poison information centre. Forensic Sci Int 2001;118:87-90.
  4. Venables GS, Evered D, Hall R. Letter: Nutmeg poisoning. Br Med J 1976;1:96.
Dermatitis Dermatologic

Topically, contact and systemic contact-type dermatitis to mace has occurred in rare cases.

  1. Dooms-Goossens, A., Dubelloy, R., and Degreef, H. Contact and systemic contact-type dermatitis to spices. Dermatol Clin 1990;8(1):89-93.
Hypotension Cardiovascular

There are no reports of adverse cardiovascular events due to ingestion of mace. However, mace contains myristicin, which is structurally similar to certain hallucinogenic chemicals. High intake of nutmeg, a related herb, has been associated with non-specific electrocardiographic changes, tachycardia, palpitations, weak pulse, hypotension, chest pain, and flushing. Theoretically, high intake of mace may have similar effects.

  1. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  2. McKenna A, Nordt SP, Ryan J. Acute nutmeg poisoning. Eur J Emerg Med 2004;11:240-1.
  3. Stein U, Greyer H, Hentschel H. Nutmeg (myristicin) poisoning-report on a fatal case and a series of cases recorded by a poison information centre. Forensic Sci Int 2001;118:87-90.
  4. Grover JK, Khandkar S, Vats V, Dhunnoo Y, Das D. Pharmacological studies on Myristica fragrans--antidiarrheal, hypnotic, analgesic and hemodynamic (blood pressure) parameters. Methods Find Exp Clin Pharmacol. 2002;24(10):675-80.
  5. Barceloux DG. Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.). Dis Mon. 2009;55(6):373-9.
Nausea and vomiting Gastrointestinal

There are no reports of adverse gastrointestinal events due to ingestion of mace. However, mace contains myristicin, which is structurally similar to certain hallucinogenic chemicals. High intake of nutmeg, a similar spice, has been reported to cause nausea and vomiting, epigastric pain, and gastroenteritis. Theoretically, high intake of mace may have similar effects.

  1. Sangalli BC, Chiang W. Toxicology of nutmeg abuse. Clin Toxicol 2000;38:671-8.
  2. Panayotopoulos DJ, Chisholm DD. Hallucinogenic effect of nutmeg. Br Med J 1970;1:754.
  3. Stein U, Greyer H, Hentschel H. Nutmeg (myristicin) poisoning-report on a fatal case and a series of cases recorded by a poison information centre. Forensic Sci Int 2001;118:87-90.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no established standardized medicinal dose for mace. As a spice, the amount used in cooking is small and considered safe.

If you choose to use a mace supplement, follow the directions on the product label and do not exceed them. Because high amounts can be toxic, more is not better. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor before using concentrated mace products, especially if you have a health condition or take other medicines.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Mace & Pregnancy

Possibly Unsafe

When used orally in medicinal amounts. Mace might have abortifacient activity, and its safrole content might be mutagenic.

  1. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.

Mace & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 18 references that drive our Mace monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  2. Sangalli BC, Chiang W. Toxicology of nutmeg abuse. Clin Toxicol 2000;38:671-8. PubMed
  3. Hallstrom H, Thuvander A. Toxicological evaluation of myristicin. Nat Toxins 1997;5:186-92. DOI
  4. Jeong HG, Yun CH. Induction of rat hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes by myristicin. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1995;217:966-71. PubMed
  5. McKenna A, Nordt SP, Ryan J. Acute nutmeg poisoning. Eur J Emerg Med 2004;11:240-1. PubMed
  6. Panayotopoulos DJ, Chisholm DD. Hallucinogenic effect of nutmeg. Br Med J 1970;1:754. PubMed
  7. Stein U, Greyer H, Hentschel H. Nutmeg (myristicin) poisoning-report on a fatal case and a series of cases recorded by a poison information centre. Forensic Sci Int 2001;118:87-90. PubMed
  8. Venables GS, Evered D, Hall R. Letter: Nutmeg poisoning. Br Med J 1976;1:96. PubMed
  9. Carstairs SD, Cantrell FL. The spice of life: an analysis of nutmeg exposures in California. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2011;49:177-80. PubMed
  10. Abernethy MK, Becker LB. Acute nutmeg intoxication. Am J Emerg Med 1992;10:429-30. PubMed
  11. Checker R, Chatterjee S, Sharma D, et al. Immunomodulatory and radioprotective effects of lignans derived from fresh nutmeg mace (Myristica fragrans) in mammalian splenocytes. Int Immunopharmacol. 2008;8(5):661-669. PubMed
  12. Sell AB, Carlini EA. Anesthetic action of methyleugenol and other eugenol derivatives. Pharmacology. 1976;14(4):367-77. PubMed
  13. Fundarò A, Cassone MC. [Action of essential oils of chamomile, cinnamon, absinthium, mace and origanum on operant conditioning behavior of the rat]. Boll Soc Ital Biol Sper. 1980;56(22):2375-80.
  14. Grover JK, Khandkar S, Vats V, Dhunnoo Y, Das D. Pharmacological studies on Myristica fragrans--antidiarrheal, hypnotic, analgesic and hemodynamic (blood pressure) parameters. Methods Find Exp Clin Pharmacol. 2002;24(10):675-80. PubMed
  15. Barceloux DG. Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.). Dis Mon. 2009;55(6):373-9. PubMed
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Mace

8 brands in our database make a supplement containing Mace.

Product directory

Supplement products with Mace

38 products in our database contain Mace. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Ashwagandha Rasayana 9a by Ayurvedic Rasayanas Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 10.7 Ounce(s) · 300 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Gokshura Rasayana 19 by Ayurvedic Rasayanas Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 10.7 Ounce(s) · 300 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Hello Peace by Himalaya Capsule 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Jatamansi Rasayana by Ayurvedic Rasayanas Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 10.7 Ounce(s) · 300 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Kapikachu Rasayana 22 by Ayurvedic Rasayanas Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 10.7 Ounce(s) · 300 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Kofhills by Herbal Hills Tablet Or Pill 30 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Mace by Hawaii Pharm Liquid 4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 120 Milliliter(s) View ingredients & interactions Mace by Herbal Terra Liquid 2 Fluid Ounce(s) · 60 mL View ingredients & interactions Mace by Herbal Terra Liquid 4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 120 mL View ingredients & interactions Mace by Herbal Terra Liquid 4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 120 mL View ingredients & interactions Mace Non-Alcohol by Hawaii Pharm Liquid 4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 120 mL View ingredients & interactions Mitamen by Ayur Earth Softgel Capsule 60 Soft Gel Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Nutmeg Fruit Powder by Bixa Botanical Powder 200 Gram(s) · 7 Ounce(s) View ingredients & interactions Revivehills by Herbal Hills Capsule 700 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Revivehills by Herbal Hills Capsule 700 Vegi Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Revivehills by Herbal Hills Capsule 120 Vegi Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Shankhpushpi Rasayana 20 by Ayurvedic Rasayanas Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 10.7 Ounce(s) · 300 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions StressCare by Himalaya Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions StressCare by Himalaya Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions StressCare by Himalaya Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Tulsi Chai Masala by Organic India Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 100 Gram(s) · 3.5 oz. View ingredients & interactions Tulsi Masala Chai by Organic India Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 18 Infusion Bag(s) · 1.33 Oz(s) · 37.8 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Tulsi Masala Chai by Organic India Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 18 Infusion Bag(s) · 1.33 Ounce(s) · 37.8 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Tulsi Masala Chai by Organic India Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 3.5 Ounce(s) · 100 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Mace: Common Questions

What is Mace used for, and does it work?
People use Mace for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.
Does Mace interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 500 medications with a known interaction with Mace. Use the checker above to see how Mace interacts with a specific drug.
How are Mace interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Mace with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Mace interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
Is Mace the same as nutmeg?
No, but they come from the same tree. Mace is the red, lacy covering around the nutmeg seed, while nutmeg is the seed itself. They have a similar flavor.
Is Mace safe to use?
In normal cooking amounts, Mace is generally safe for most people. Large or concentrated doses can be toxic and cause symptoms like rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and hallucinations, so avoid taking large amounts.
Can Mace help with digestion?
Mace has traditionally been used for gas, upset stomach, and nausea, but there is little solid human research to confirm it works. It is best viewed as a flavorful spice rather than a proven remedy.
Can I use Mace if I am pregnant?
Using Mace as an ordinary cooking spice is likely fine, but you should avoid medicinal or large amounts during pregnancy because they may not be safe. Check with your doctor or pharmacist first.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Keep exploring

Products that contain Mace

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Mace — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

See all 38 products with Mace →
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