Botanical Name: Pimenta dioica

Also Known As: Jamaica pepper, pimento, Jamaica pimento

General Info: Allspice has a complex flavor that combines tastes of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. The spice itself is the unripe fruit of Pimenta dioica, an evergreen shrub native to Jamaica and parts of Central America. Famous for its sweet, spicy fragrance and flavor, allspice berries are often found in Caribbean cuisine and seasoning blends. Whole allspice can be added to mulled cider recipes and macerated as a liquid extract. The berries are harvested from the Jamaican Bayberry tree. The dried, unripe fruits of allspice are frequently used with cardamom, cinnamon, and/or green tea. Allspice is a celebrated component of Caribbean cuisine, famous for its sweet, spicy fragrance and piquant flavor. It is a classic ingredient for marinades and jerk rubs and is often included in hot mulled cider during the frosty winter months.

Historical Uses: Used as the Jamaican pepper in the the 15th century. With its strong aroma it was used in boots of soldiers to prevent cold feet and odor. The Spanish discovered allspice growing in the Caribbean during Columbus's early voyages to the Americas. They introduced the spice to Europe during the 1600's.

Medicinal Properties: Helpful in treating all kinds of fevers. For oral purposes, it works as a mouth freshener and pain reliever. Helps with colds, flu, chest infection, and respiratory troubles. Helps to relieve acidity and heartburn. Natural remedy for indigestion, stomach pain, vomiting, flatulence, headache. Increases appetite and relieves colicky pain. Potentially manages the blood sugar level. May have cancer-fighting, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Provides strength and energy to the body, combating lethargy. Helpful with muscle ailments like pain and spasms, as well as rheumatism, arthritis, and other types of joint pain. Heals wounds and stops bleeding. 

Magical Uses & Associations: Magically used to attract money, luck, transforming energy, obstacles, and to add energy to any spell or charm.

Form: whole berries

Scent: strong aroma

Origin: Allspice comes from an evergreen shrub native to the Caribbean, southern Mexico, and parts of Central America.

Precautions: No known precautions. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.