Holiday Spice... Dangerous?

As we get ready for the holiday season and begin sifting through recipes rich in spice, there is one in particular to be aware of, nutmeg, We put it in holidays drinks, desserts , and sweet potatoes, but toxicologists are announcing a small warning to holiday bakers: Measure your nutmeg carefully.
Very carefully.

Nutmeg has had a history of uses that most people are unaware of. It was used to end unwanted pregnancies, prisoners embraced it as a drug substitute, and on occasion teenagers wound up at poison control centers! 

“It’s not that nutmeg cases are that common,” said Leon Gussow, an Illinois toxicologist,  “But toxicologists do recognize it as one of the more interesting spices in the kitchen.”

So how much is ok? Experts say that a sampling of nutmeg, dusting on eggnog or a cocktail, or a sprinkle in a pie or cake, is not a risk to revelers. In those doses, the woodsy, sweet flavor should simply be enjoyed.

So please have a safe and happy holiday season and don't go crazy with the nutmeg!!!