Nutmeg can cause adverse side effects, including hallucinations, when taken in very large amounts. Small amounts of nutmeg used in cooking are generally considered safe. Nutmeg toxicity can cause hallucinations. It has been reported numerous times that people use large quantities of the spice in an attempt to induce hallucinations. Although the exact amount that can be considered toxic is not yet established, Illinois Poison Center states that symptoms of toxicity can appear at a dose of almost 10 grams (equivalent to 2 teaspoons approximately) of this spice. The symptoms are severe with 50 grams or more nutmeg intake. (11) Most recipes call for using only small amounts of nutmeg, about ¼ to ½ teaspoon, which works in seasoning the food but does not cause toxicity. Moreover, this amount is used for a complete preparation, which often later is divided into multiple portions, thus leaving an individual sharing the meal with very insignificant exposure.