Black Pepper is from the dried and cooked unripe drupe of Piper nigrum vine; whereas, white pepper and green pepper are from uncooked or ripe fruit, respectively. The Black Pepper plant is originally from India and has been used as a spice, food preservative and traditional medicine since antiquity.
Black Pepper was so valuable in the spice trade that it used to be considered a luxury item and symbol of wealth—often used as currency and in dowries and taxes.
The heat from Black Pepper comes from a different compound (called piperine) than that from chili peppers (which come from capsaicin). However, there are a number of similar activities and therapeutic effects of the two, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective, antidepressant, antioxidant properties and use for metabolic health.
Black Pepper and piperine have shown beneficial effects through scientific investigation on lipid profiles, oxidative stress, memory, blood sugar balance, liver health and cytokine balance.
The main focus compound in Black Pepper is piperine, present at about 5-9% of the fruit, and traditionally used and scientifically confirmed to enhance the absorption of certain nutrients. For example, it is often combined with curcumin, the main active compound in Turmeric, for this reason.
Among the gastrointestinal effects of Black Pepper, it is thought to cause an increase in gastric secretions by stimulating taste buds and thermal receptors, as well as inducing sweating. It is also hypothesized to possibly stimulate histamine or vanilloid receptors. In research, 1.5 grams have also been found to reduce gastrointestinal transit time, possibly by inhibition of intestinal contractions.
Other compounds of interest include volatile oil, oleoresins and other alkaloids. Piperamides have also been compounds of interest, as they have been associated and confirmed to have cannabimimetic effects.
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*This post is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, cure or treat any disease. Always seek medical advice directly through consultation with a health professional