Botanical name: Piper nigrum
Black Pepper- Summary
Got its name derived from the South Asian word ‘pippali’, Pippali, or long pepper or black pepper is a magical herb in Ayurveda for lung and heart-related problems. The word 'pep' has emerged from the invigorating, cleansing, powerful qualities of black pepper. Black pepper is instinctive to the Southeast Asian region. It is one of the most extensively used spice all over the worldand is widely known as the king of spices.
About Black Pepper
- For years, it has been used as a flavor enhancer in various parts of the world.
- From Ayurveda’s perspective, the pungency and heating traits of black pepper help in the right digestion and metabolism of food.
- It is extremely effective in the treatment of respiratory ailments like cough,cold, asthma, congestion, and sinusitis.
- It is one of the three ingredients of a significant Ayurvedic medicine – Trikatu.
- It is anti-bacterial,anti-fungal, anti-tumor, and anti-inflammatory.
- It may help encourage the unrestricted flow of oxygen to the brain, promote digestion and circulation, arouse the appetite, and complement joint health.
Pepperand Doshas
- It is commonly used to fortify the Pitta dosha and reduce the levels of Vata and Kaphadoshas.
- Pepper is a wonderful addition to the diet to bring required heat to the mind, spirit, and body.
Pepper- Health Benefits
- Due to high antioxidants, it builds immunity and prevents various problems like certain types of cancer, premature aging, inflammation, etc.
- An anti-inflammatory agent means it keeps away many conditions like heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and cancer
- Improved cognitive function by preventing degenerative brain conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease
- Its piperine content helps improve blood sugar metabolism
- Lowers cholesterol levels, including LDL (bad) cholesterol
- Improves the effectiveness of conventional treatment for triple-negative breast cancer, the deadliest cancer type
- Boost absorption of nutrients
- May provide pain relief
Scientific Studies About Pepper
- Clinical Studies have established the safety of black pepper or its active principle, piperine, in several animal studies. Piperine, while it is non-genotoxic, has been found to possess anti-mutagenic and anti-tumorproperties.
- Another research study exhibited that Black pepper can provide neuro-protection thus defendingthe body from depression and Alzheimer’s. The synergistic effect of black pepper inenhancing the bioavailability of nutrients and drugs is of considerable importance.
Dharmsala Teas with Black Pepper