Effect of nutmeg on ethanol and d-amphetamine-produced alteration of locomotor activity in the mouse.

A behavioral performance test was used to assess the effect of a mild nutmeg extract on spontaneous locomotor activity of the mouse. The nutmeg extract was administered intraperitoneally once daily for 17 consecutive days and only moderately reduced motor activity from corresponding control. A nutmeg dosage devoid of action on motility was chosen for short-term administration to mice. These nutmeg treated mice and the saline controls received either a single depressant dosage of ethanol or a stimulant dose of d-amphetamine. Nutmeg treated mice showed potentiation of ethanol-mediated depression on motility compared to controls. The d-amphetamine-produced stimulation of locomotor activity was decreased from controls by the nutmeg treatment. The results indicate that the nutmeg extract preparation used contained ingredients which synergistically interacted with alcohol as contrasted with their antagonism to d-amphetamine. The results suggest a CNS depressant action of nutmeg. Such CNS impairment by nutmeg may conceivably contribute to its toxic interaction with certain substances of abuse and may explain, in part, its addictive potential.