8 Benefits Black Pepper Offers to Your Health

Black pepper is no unknown spice to anyone. It can be found in abundance in every kitchen. It is one of the common spices regularly used in Indian cuisines to infuse dishes with aromatic and spicy flavours. Hence, many Indian households purchase these spices in bulk and wholesale, storing them for a year, either in whole or as powder.

Its intense flavour and aromatic smell can make any dish instantly delicious. But apart from culinary use, black pepper is renowned as a powerful medicinal herb in Ayurveda and ancient Chinese medical practices.

It is rich in many nutrients like vitamins, zinc, phosphorus, etc. and therefore has the potential to heal various diseases. Thus, Ayurvedic practitioners have been using black pepper for centuries.

Some scientific studies also have proved that black pepper contains many medicinal properties that help improve our health. In this article, we state the top eight benefits the black pepper offers to our health.

What is black pepper?

Black pepper, also known as piper nigrum, is a flowering vein that produces tiny fruits called peppercorn. This peppercorn is harvested and dried under the sun for a few days. In the drying process, they turn black and wrinkly.

After they are dried, black pepper is used to flavour various dishes. It is one of the common spices used in the cuisine of India and other Asian countries. Black pepper is a demanded spice in the International market and has been a medicine used in traditional practices as it offers many health improving properties.

Health improving benefits of black pepper

Anti-inflammatory properties

Black peppercorns are rich in antioxidants, and therefore, it offers your body anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidants fight free radicals such as the sun's harmful UV rays, cigarette smoke, and environmental pollutants. These free radicals can cause many diseases like cancer and cardiovascular problems. Antioxidants present in black pepper can fight these radicals and reduce the chances of sickness and diseases.

Supports digestive system

Black pepper has been used for digestive purposes. Its digestive properties are well-known in Ayurvedic medicinal practices. In Ayurveda, black pepper is a warm herb with appetising properties that can fix lousy digestion and regulate the digestive system.

Increases nutrient absorption

Black pepper is known for its absorption property, which means it helps the body better absorb other substances from food and medicine. It can improve the absorption of several nutrients like selenium and calcium. It is often combined with other herbs and medicines to improve their absorption rate.

Antibacterial values

One of the least known but important benefits black pepper offers is its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Black pepper has antibacterial properties, which can aid in your overall health. In addition, some studies have shown that black pepper extract is effective against food spoiling bacteria and food-borne pathogens like E. Coli. Moreover, it is also effective against bacteria that cause tooth problems.

Improves brain health and function

Black pepper contains a compound called piperine. This piperine compound appears to improve the brain's health and allow it to function better. But there is no human study conducted here on this subject. Yet, other studies suggest that piperine can improve brain impairment and memory power.

Mood lifting properties

One of the most significant benefits black pepper essential oils offer is mood improvement. In aromatherapy, Black pepper essential oils are used for stress relief. Moreover, there are some more vital indications that aromatherapy can effectively combat the symptoms of depression. Another use of the essential oil of black pepper can be quitting smoking, as one study indicates that inhaling this oil reduces cigarette cravings.

It May work as a natural pain reliever.

Black pepper also has pain-relieving properties. Although this also needs further research to strengthen the claim, the results concluded in some studies indicate this benefit of black pepper. But the amount of black pepper consumed in food is not enough for pain relief. Therefore messaging the painful area with diluted essential oil is suggested.

May lower blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol

Thus far, black pepper has shown many positive effects on our health. Another most important benefit this ancient herb offers is controlling blood pressure and sugar level. It can also lower insulin sensitivity. In addition, other studies suggest that black pepper extract can reduce harmful LDL cholesterol levels.

How to use black pepper for your health

Black peppercorns are a common spice you can find in your kitchen. Apart from adding black pepper powder to your food items, you can use this magical herb spice as an essential oil. Just make sure you are not using essential oil directly on your skin, as it may give a burning sensation. Instead, use black pepper essential oil diluted with other carrier oil.

Precautions you should take care of

Although black pepper does not have any known side effects, you should not take this herb in heavy amounts. It does not irritate like chilli pepper, but a large dose may upset your stomach. When using an essential oil, do patch tests first and use only with carrier oils. About storing black pepper and other spices, you should always keep them in a cool, dry, and airtight container if you buy spices in bulk and wholesale.