Black pepper – Piper nigrum – is one of the most widely used spice across different cuisines. As per history it was one of the spices widely used for trade between India and the rest of the world. It is named the ‘King of Spices’ and it has a very important place in ancient Ayurvedic and Chinese medical system. Black pepper is rich in plant compound called Pepperin, which is an antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps improve mental health, blood sugar control and lower cholesterol levels.

Metabolism of substances such drugs, hormones involves a process in liver called glucuronidation which makes these more water soluble and helps in the eventual elimination from the body. Glucuronidation sometimes prevents the intake of certain supplements and renders them useless. However, this process is inhibited by Pepperin. It is because of this property that Curcumin should be consumed with black Pepper to improve its bioavailability. Pairing of pepperin should be consulted with Physician to determine possible risks and side effects of the absorption of supplement. Consuming black pepper in excess can cause indigestion and heartburn.

Extensive studies need to be conducted on humans to determine the multiple benefits of consuming black pepper.

My References

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/black-pepper-benefits#The-bottom-line
https://examine.com/supplements/black-pepper/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23768180/