Compound Monograph
Elemicin
Elemicin is a phenylpropene from nutmeg and related spices, one of the aromatic constituents linked to nutmeg's psychoactivity.
Classification
Elemicin is a phenylpropene, part of the phenolics class. Antioxidant compounds built around one or more phenol rings — the flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, coumarins, and pigments behind much of a plant's protective chemistry.
Where Does It Come From? (5)
Elemicin is a naturally occurring phenylpropene, found in Nutmeg, Mace, Elemi resin and various essential oils and 2 other sources. It is flagged as moderately toxic.
Research & Evidence
Elemicin is a methoxylated phenylpropene (an allylbenzene) found in nutmeg, mace and several aromatic plants and resins. Together with myristicin and related allylbenzenes, it is among the constituents thought to contribute to the deliriant, intoxicating effects reported from large doses of nutmeg. It is structurally related to other allylbenzene aroma compounds and has been discussed as a possible precursor in the body to amphetamine-type metabolites, though this is not well established.
Toxicity & Safety
In ordinary culinary amounts the elemicin obtained from spices is not a concern. Concern arises with deliberate consumption of large quantities of nutmeg, which can cause unpleasant and sometimes serious deliriant toxicity. As an allylbenzene, elemicin belongs to a structural class that has raised safety questions at high or chronic exposure.