Mace: An Examination of Its Health Benefits, with a Focus on Men’s Health, Prostate Function, and Urinary Wellness

Abstract

Mace, the crimson lace-like aril of Myristica fragrans (nutmeg), is a historically valued spice revered in culinary and medicinal traditions across Asia and Europe. While often overshadowed by its sibling nutmeg, mace possesses a unique phytochemical profile that imparts distinct therapeutic properties.

1. Introduction to Mace

Mace is derived from the aril that surrounds the seed of the Myristica fragrans tree, native to the Banda Islands of Indonesia. Unlike nutmeg, which is the seed itself, mace has a lighter, more delicate flavor profile and a distinctive reddish hue that dries into a golden-brown color. Traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Chinese Medicine have long recognized mace for its warming, carminative, aphrodisiac, and analgesic effects.

2. Phytochemical Composition of Mace

Mace contains an array of bioactive compounds, including:

Myristicin – a phenylpropene compound with psychoactive, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects
Elemicin, Eugenol, and Safrole – aromatic ethers with antimicrobial and spasmolytic activities
Essential fatty acids – linoleic and oleic acids
Flavonoids – powerful antioxidants
Triterpenoids and Lignans – potentially cytoprotective and hormone-modulating

The concentration of these constituents can vary depending on harvest season, soil composition, and drying methods.

3. General Health Benefits of Mace

3.1 Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties

Mace exhibits potent antioxidant effects attributed to its polyphenolic content. These compounds scavenge free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and may play a preventive role in chronic degenerative diseases such as cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.

3.2 Antimicrobial Activity

Studies demonstrate that mace essential oil exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects, effective against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungi such as Candida albicans.

3.3 Gastrointestinal Support

Traditionally, mace has been used to alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and nausea. Its carminative effect helps relax the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract.

3.4 Cognitive Enhancement

Preliminary data suggest that compounds such as myristicin and elemicin may enhance memory and protect against neurodegenerative conditions by modulating cholinergic function and reducing amyloid plaque formation.

4. Effects of Mace on Men’s Health

4.1 Aphrodisiac and Hormonal Support

Mace has been traditionally used to enhance libido and sexual performance in men. Animal studies have shown that ethanolic extracts of mace may elevate serum testosterone levels, increase libido, and improve erectile function, likely due to its influence on dopaminergic and nitric oxide pathways.

4.2 Prostate Health

While direct studies on mace’s effect on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer are limited, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may indirectly support prostate health. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are key drivers of prostate enlargement and malignancy. Eugenol and flavonoids in mace may inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6.

4.3 Urinary Tract Benefits

Mace’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions may provide protection against urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly those caused by E. coli. This is significant for aging men who often experience urinary retention or infections due to prostate enlargement.

4.4 Metabolic and Cardiovascular Effects

The hypolipidemic and hypotensive effects of mace may contribute to improved cardiovascular health, which is strongly linked to overall vitality and hormonal stability in men. Mace extract has shown the ability to reduce LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels in animal models.

5. Ingestion Methods

Mace can be consumed in various forms depending on the desired application:

Whole or Ground Mace: Used as a culinary spice, especially in baked goods, sauces, and beverages.
Mace Tea: A traditional remedy for digestive and urinary complaints.
Mace Extract or Tincture: Found in herbal preparations aimed at libido enhancement and hormonal balance.
Capsules and Supplements: Standardized mace extracts for therapeutic purposes, often combined with other adaptogens.
Essential Oil (Aromatherapy): Applied externally or diffused for neurological or digestive effects (not recommended for internal use unless supervised).

Dosage Guidelines (For Adults):

Powdered Mace: 250–500 mg per day (not exceeding 1g/day without medical guidance)
Tincture: 1–2 ml, three times daily
Essential Oil: For topical use only—dilute 1:5 in a carrier oil

⚠️ Caution: Myristicin in high doses may have hallucinogenic and hepatotoxic effects. Chronic overuse is discouraged. Always consult a physician before initiating long-term or high-dose use.

6. Safety and Toxicological Considerations

Toxicity Risks: Myristicin and safrole, when consumed in large amounts, have been linked to neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity.
Drug Interactions: Mace may interfere with anticoagulants, sedatives, and SSRIs.
Pregnancy and Lactation: Contraindicated due to uterotonic properties.

7. Conclusion

Mace, while often confined to culinary use, exhibits a promising range of health-promoting properties, especially for men’s wellness. Its potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hormone-modulating capabilities position it as a supportive natural agent for prostate function, urinary health, and libido enhancement. Although more targeted human studies are needed to validate its efficacy and safety for specific conditions, the traditional and emerging scientific evidence suggests mace deserves greater attention in integrative men’s health strategies.

Mace: An Examination of Its Health Benefits, with a Focus on Men’s Health, Prostate Function, and Urinary Wellness