Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans ) Nutmeg, Myristica fragrance, is a tropical evergreen tree in the family Myristicaceae grown for its seeds which are used as spices. Nutmeg and Mace are two separate spices derived from the fruit of tree Myristica fragrans. The seed is shiny dark brown and oval in shape. Nutmeg is a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect against the signs of aging and serious conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and liver disease and also has been shown to have antibacterial effects against potentially harmful strains of bacteria.