Myristicaceae stamens. However, "Myristica" is probably pollinated by true ants, a case of myrmecophily. A few New Guinea "Myristica" species have evolved hollow stem swellings in which ants reside. This facilitates a mutualistic relationship known as myrmecophily, and is similar to that of "Cecropia". The most important products of the family by far are the nutmeg and mace spices, both respectively derived from the seed and aril of "Myristica fragrans", a tree native to the Moluccas. A hallucinogenic snuff (containing a derivative of tryptamine) that is used by certain Amazonian tribes is obtained from the bark of "Virola elongata" and other
The Mistress of Spices painful memories; black cumin seed to protect against evil eye." As a young girl, Tilo was initiated as one of several young Mistresses of Spices by the First Mother (Zohra Sehgal), who warns the girls about certain rules they must follow, or face dire consequences. They are instructed never to leave their respective stores all around the world, physically touch the skin of the people they meet, or use the great and incomprehensible strength and power of the Spices to their own ends. Tilo ends up in the San Francisco Bay Area in a store called "Spice Bazaar". Tilo's customers