Spice guide / Mace
What is Mace?
The aril of nutmeg; sold separately from the nutmeg kernel.
Short answer: Mace (Hindi: जावित्री) is Myristica fragrans (aril). Warm, finer than nutmeg, peppery-sweet. Culinary use only — not a medicine.
| Common name | Mace |
|---|---|
| Hindi | जावित्री |
| Sanskrit | — |
| Botanical name | Myristica fragrans (aril) |
| Family | Myristicaceae |
| Origin | India — Kerala nutmeg gardens |
| Main producing regions | Kerala |
| Flavour | Warm, finer than nutmeg, peppery-sweet |
| Aroma | — |
| Forms | whole, powder |
| Retail packs | 100g–5kg (typical; see products) |
| Bulk | 10kg+ |
What is Mace?
Mace and nutmeg come from the same fruit. Market data often lists them as different forms, which is why grades matter.
History of Mace
Origin
India — Kerala nutmeg gardens
Growing regions
Kerala
How it is grown
Harvest
Processing
Grades
- Standard: Admin-configured commercial grade
- Premium: Admin-configured higher visual/purity selection
- Export Grade: Only show when export specifications exist for the lot
- Machine Cleaned: Machine cleaned — confirm process for the lot
Only grades that apply to a lot should be shown at purchase. These are templates, not invented industry certificates.
Flavour, aroma and colour
Warm, finer than nutmeg, peppery-sweet. . Colour: . Heat: none.
Whole vs ground
Mace is sold whole (or as seed/leaf) and as a ground form. Whole keeps aroma longer in a UK cupboard; grind or crush just before cooking when you can. Powder is convenient for daily dal, curry and marinades — buy a pack you will finish in a few months.
Culinary uses
- Biryani
- Sweets
- Garam masala
- Meat
Traditional uses
Recorded in culinary tradition. Traditional use is not scientific evidence of a medical effect.
SpicyCenter does not claim that spices cure, treat or prevent disease.
Storage and shelf life
Nutrition
Mace is a culinary seasoning. Nutrition values are pack-specific and must match the label for UK/EU sale. We do not claim that this spice treats, cures or prevents disease.
Buying guide
Retail packs typically run from 100g to 5kg. Bulk starts at 10kg. Selling prices are checkout prices. Indian market figures, when present, are indicative only.
