Compound Monograph
Elemicin
Elemicin is a phenylpropene from nutmeg and related spices, one of the aromatic constituents linked to nutmeg's psychoactivity.
Sources · 4
Where Does It Come From?
Elemicin is a naturally occurring phenylpropene, found in Nutmeg, Mace, Elemi resin and various essential oils and 1 other source. It is flagged as moderately toxic.
Principal source Nutmeg Myristica fragrans Herb monograph → 
Source Tarragon Artemisia dracunculus Herb monograph → Concentration
Content by Source
Concentrations not reported. No percent-dry-weight or mg/g figures have been published for this compound in its source plants.
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.
