6 Proven Health Benefits Of Black Pepper

Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is a flowering vine cultivated for the fruit of the same name and is known for its unique taste and aroma. It is loaded with essential nutrients that provide several health and beauty benefits.

Dried pepper is also known as peppercorn and is available in three varieties black, green and white. Once the pepper is dried, it is used as a spice and for food seasoning.

Black pepper is native to South India and other parts of South Asia and has been used in Indian kitchens for centuries. Pepper is one of the most widely exported spices from India.

# Reduces The Risk Of Various Cancers

Piperine, an antioxidantal compound present in the black pepper protects our cells and tissues from free radical damage, and thus reduces the risk of various cancers.As per a Canadian study, piperine reduces oxidative stress from the rectum and thus minimizes the risk of colon cancer. It is also effective against prostate cancer. It also enhances the performance of docetaxel, a chemotherapy medication used for prostate cancer treatment.

Piperine is also known for increasing the absorption of essential nutrients like selenium, curcumin, beta-carotene, and vitamin B complex, etc in our intestines, and thus improves our intestinal health and further minimizes the risk of digestive tract related cancers.

# Promotes Digestive Health

Black pepper stimulates digestive juices and digestive enzymes, and thus promotes better digestion. The piperine, an antioxidantal compound in the black pepper increases the absorption of essential nutrients from the meal, and as well as protects the digestive system from free radical damage.

As per studies, adding black pepper to the diet shows a positive impact on the pancreatic enzymes and improves overall digestion. Because of its carminative properties, black pepper relieves stomach gas and is also effective against flatulence and colicky pain.

# Prevents Hypertension

Potassium, a vital mineral present in the black pepper is a natural vasodilator that relaxes our blood vessels, improves blood circulation, and thus provides relief from high blood pressure or hypertension.

Hypertension is a silent killer that affects millions of people around the world and is a prime cause of cardiovascular problems like heart attack, heart stroke, and coronary artery diseases. Piperine in the black pepper also aids in reducing blood pressure levels.

# Relieves Cold And Cough

Because of their anti-microbial properties, apricots stimulate the flow and circulation of the mucous, and thus provides relief from cold and cough.

To get relief from cough and cold, take one cup of boiling water and add a teaspoon of powdered black pepper and two tablespoons of honey to it. Mix them properly and cover the water-filled cup. Let it steep for 15 minutes, and then strain and drink the water sip by sip. Using this remedy thrice a day clears out congestion and sinuses and provides relief from cough and cold.

# Promotes Weight Loss

Black pepper is beneficial for weight loss as it aids in getting rid of the stubborn fat that accumulates in our body.The piperine in the black pepper controls the formation of fat cells and thus contributes to weight management.

Adding a simple dash of black pepper and squeezing a lemon on your favorite chicken or grilled vegetable is a better alternative to calorie-heavy Italian dressing. One teaspoon of black pepper contains 8 calories of energy which is very low in comparison to calorie-laden Italian dressings available in the market.

# Provides Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Piperine, an anti-inflammatory compound present in the black pepper provides relief from pain and inflammation caused by inflammatory diseases like arthritis, rheumatism, rheumatoid, gouts, asthma, and bronchial asthma.Studies conducted on rats with arthritis found that piperine reduced swelling of the joints, and also lowered blood markers of the inflammation.