Why was nutmeg so valuable?
Nutmeg gained a lot of popularity in the late 1500s as a treatment for plague, and became even trendier among European elites once they discovered its hallucinogenic properties (which are still a thing, according to The Atlantic). Also, spices were vanishingly rare back then, adding to the illusion of product scarcity.
What did Europeans use nutmeg for?
By the end of the 12th century, nutmeg became generally known to Europeans. It is sold whole or grounded to be used mostly for savory dishes, pickles and ketchups. Nutmeg’s essential oils contain bactericidal, fungicidal and insecticidal activities, which was why it was used by Europeans to preserve food.
What is the saddest spice?
“Nutmeg has been one of the saddest stories of history,” explains culinary historian Michael Krondl.
Why did Europeans love spices?
During the Middle Ages, spices were as valuable in Europe as gold and gems and the single most important force driving the world’s economy. The lack of refrigeration and poor standards of hygiene meant that food often spoiled quickly and spices were in great demand to mask the flavour of food that was far from fresh.
What culture uses nutmeg the most?
Indonesia is the main producer of nutmeg and mace. If consumed in amounts exceeding its typical use as a spice, nutmeg powder may produce allergic reactions, cause contact dermatitis, or have psychoactive effects.
Which Spice Girl has best voice?
Proof That Mel C Was The Spice Girls’ Best Singer. If there was ever any doubt that Sporty had the best voice of the girls, just watch her save this radio show host’s gruff rendition of “Viva Forever.”
Who is the most popular Spice Girl?
With a massive 37\% of the vote, Baby Spice – aka Emma Bunton – has been named the nation’s most popular Spice Girl. Sporty Spice (Melanie C) came in second place with 23\%, while Ginger Spice (Geri Horner) is third with 19\% of the vote.
How did the spice trade change the world?
Spices didn’t just make merchants rich across the globe — it established vast empires, revealed entire continents to Europeans and tipped the balance of world power. If the modern age has a definitive beginning, it was sparked by the spice trade, some historians have argued.
Why spices are important in the western countries during that time?
They were believed to be ingredients used by the rich and they were used as special additives for guests during meals. They were also used in the production of wine and as gifts. Spices were thought to be helpful in digesting food. For several years, spices played major roles in western civilization.