HI
The nutmeg tree is important for two spices derived from the fruit, nutmeg and mace.[1]
Nutmeg is the actual seed of the tree, roughly egg-shaped and about 20 to 30 mm (0.8 to 1 in) long and 15 to 18 mm (0.6 to 0.7 in) wide, and weighing between 5 and 10 g (0.2 and 0.4 oz) dried, while mace is the dried "lacy" reddish covering or aril of the seed. The first harvest of nutmeg trees takes place 7–9 years after planting, and the trees reach full production after 20 years. Nutmeg is usually used in powdered form. This is the only tropical fruit that is the source of two different spices.
Jaaipatre is the kannada name for mace. Rampathre is the false nutmeg. he stem of the tree is covered with lateral branches making it look ornamental. It flowers and bears fruits from November to March. The plant gives a yellow aril called ‘pathre’ in Kannada and local language.
‘Jaayi Kayi’ or Nut Meg is different from Rampathre. Jaayi Kayi was an exotic plant brought to India from West Indies. Since Nut Meg is expensive, False Nut Meg or Wild Mace is collected and aril of this is mixed with nut meg illegally.
However, Rampathre is used for natural colours. It is an effecrive medicine for indigestion and ulcers. False Nut Meg is endemic to western ghats and is considered as one of the threatened variety of plant.
Rampathre is known as Kaanaje in Tulu and Kaattukaattika in Malayalam. It is scientifically known as ‘Myristica Malabarica’ and belongs to Myristicaceae family.
Regards
Ashwini
