Is Nutmeg Halal or Haram in Islam? A Scholar’s Perspective

Nutmeg is a widely used spice, loved for its unique flavor in dishes around the world. However, the question arises: is nutmeg halal or haram in Islam? The permissibility of nutmeg—whether it is halal (permissible) or haram (forbidden)—is a subject of debate among Islamic scholars.

Why Is Nutmeg Debated in Islam?

The primary reason for the debate around nutmeg is rooted in Islamic rulings that prohibit anything causing intoxication or harm. While nutmeg is not an intoxicant like alcohol, consuming it in large quantities can lead to effects such as dizziness, mild anesthesia, or even hallucinations. These properties raise concerns among scholars about its permissibility Is Nutmeg Halal or Haram in Islam? .

What Do Islamic Scholars Say Nutmeg Halal?

1. Hanafi and Shafi’i Opinions

Scholars from the Hanafi and Shafi’i schools generally permit the use of nutmeg in small amounts. Their reasoning is based on the principle that Islam forbids substances that cause intoxication or a loss of control. Since nutmeg does not intoxicate when used as a spice in food, it is considered permissible in limited quantities for cooking and medicinal purposes.

2. Hanbali and Maliki Views

Scholars from the Hanbali and Maliki schools take a more cautious stance. They argue against the use of nutmeg altogether, emphasizing that even its mild effects could be harmful. These scholars advise Muslims to avoid nutmeg entirely, adhering to the Islamic principle of steering clear of anything potentially harmful or doubtful.

3. General Islamic Law on Intoxicants

Islam strongly emphasizes avoiding anything harmful to the body or mind. Large quantities of nutmeg, which may cause harm or intoxication, are unanimously considered haram (forbidden). However, many scholars agree that small amounts of nutmeg, when used as a culinary spice, do not produce these effects and are thus generally permissible.

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Fatwa Guidelines on Nutmeg

Scientists and physicians agree that it is a narcotic psychotropic substance, however, its effect is narcotic, not intoxicating, and consuming a small amount of it has no effect. Dr. Mohammad Ali Al-Bar stated: “The volatile oil in the seed contains myristicin, which is a hypnotic substance if taken in a large amount and produces languidness if taken in an amount lesser than that. If used repeatedly, it could have a toxic fatal effect on the liver and could lead to addiction.

Islamic jurists have debated the permissibility of nutmeg based on this information:

• Prohibition Without Differentiation: Hanafi, some Shafi’i, and Maliki jurists argue that both small and large amounts of nutmeg should be avoided. They cite the following hadith:“If a large amount of anything causes intoxication, a small amount of it is prohibited.” (Abu Dawood)”The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) forbade every intoxicant and everything which produces languidness.” (Abu Dawood)
• Permissibility in Small Quantities: Other scholars differentiate between the use of nutmeg as a spice and its use in intoxicating amounts. They argue that its minimal usage in food does not fall under the category of intoxicants.

Relevant Hadiths

Narrated Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-‘As:

The Prophet (ﷺ) forbade wine (khamr), game of chance (maysir), drum (kubah), and wine made from millet (ghubayrah), saying: Every intoxicant is forbidden.

Abu Dawud said: Ibn Sallam Abu ‘Ubaid said: Ghubairah was an intoxicant liquor made from millet. This wine was made by the Abyssinians (Sunan Abi Dawud 3685)

Conclusion: Is Nutmeg Halal or Haram?

The use of nutmeg in small amounts as a culinary spice is generally considered Nutmeg halal (permissible) by many scholars, particularly those from the Hanafi and Shafi’i schools. However, large amounts, which may cause harm or intoxication, are considered haram (forbidden). Scholars from the Hanbali and Maliki schools recommend avoiding nutmeg entirely to steer clear of potential harm.

Advisory for Muslims

To avoid doubt, it is best to:

• Limit the use of nutmeg to small amounts in cooking.
• Consult a knowledgeable scholar if unsure about its permissibility.
• Avoid large quantities that may lead to harmful effects.

By adhering to these guidelines, Muslims can make informed decisions about using nutmeg in their daily lives.