Dar al-Ifta of Egypt was asked about the ruling on trading nutmeg and clarified that it is permissible according to Islamic law, provided the food and health safety guidelines are followed. Buyers usually use it lawfully, and any misuse falls on the individual alone.
Nutmeg Properties and Uses:
Nearly spherical fruit; trees are tall and pyramidal.
Helps expel stomach gas; can have narcotic effects in large amounts.
Used in perfumes, sweets, some foods, soaps, medicine, and flavoring food and drinks.
Nutmeg oil contains around 4% myristicin (narcotic), rest are fatty acid glycerides.
Scholarly Opinions:
Imam al-Ramli (Shafi’i): Small consumption allowed, excess forbidden.
Al-Hattab (Maliki): Small amounts for warming the brain or with medicine permitted; general moderation is best.
Use in Coffee and Food:
Nutmeg is not intoxicating but a sedative; permissible in small amounts.
Can be added to food and coffee moderately.
Excess leading to intoxication or body weakness is forbidden.
Conclusion:
Trading and consuming nutmeg is permissible in moderation, adhering to Islamic and health guidelines, while excess use carries individual responsibility.
