How are the psychoactive effects of excessive nutmeg consumption often described regarding sensory perception?
Hallucinogenic
The impact of myristicin extends beyond simple physical malaise to profoundly affect the central nervous system, inducing altered states of consciousness. These experiences are frequently characterized by descriptions of hallucinogenic effects. However, these altered states are typically negative rather than pleasant, often accompanied by significant mental distress such as agitation, confusion, and profound disorientation. Furthermore, these symptom clusters can bear a resemblance to those seen in anticholinergic poisoning, a condition known for significantly impairing cognitive function. It is these specific mental status changes—confusion and paranoia—that sometimes motivate recreational misuse, despite the distressing nature of the resulting experience.
