Black Pepper

September 19, 2024

Piper nigrum

Energetics : Warming + Slightly Drying

Herbal Properties : Anti-Inflammatory, Anticonvulsant, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Carminative, Diaphoretic, Digestive Stimulant, Diuretic, Expectorant

Have you ever wondered why the two spices most commonly found on restaurant tables are salt and pepper? Black pepper has been shown to aid in the digestive process. It is ‘carminative’ which means it can help to relieve flatulence such as gas, burps, bloating, etc.

Once the taste from black pepper hits your tongue, it triggers your stomach to release hydrochloric acid which in turn, stimulates digestive enzymes in the pancreas. It can also help to relieve constipation. Black pepper is also known as being anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and have potential for antidepressant effects, and more. (Sources 1, 2, 7)

Black pepper contains ‘piperine’ which studies suggest may have anti-tumor and anti-cancer effects. (Source 3, 4, 5, 6)

Precautions:

Black pepper may interact with antiretroviral drugs, but is otherwise very safe. Always consult a trusted healthcare provider with any questions or concerns.

Sources :

(1) Black Pepper as an Anti-Inflammatory and more

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6479398/

(2) Black Pepper’s antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, gastro-protective, and antidepressant effects

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23768180/

(3) Piperine and Anti-Tumor effects

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17987447/

(4) Piperine as an anti-cancer agent

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28545378/

(5) Spices with anti cancer potential

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27529277/

(6) Turmeric and Black Pepper as a Cancer Preventative