What are its benefits?
Long enjoyed around the world for its flavor and pungency, black pepper has caught the interest of scientists in recent decades. While little research has been done so far on black pepper’s effect on the microbiome specifically, many studies indicate that the bio-active compound in black pepper, piperine, may have a wide range of health benefits:
- Has antioxidant properties
- May effectively fight inflammation
- Has been shown to improve brain function in animal studies
- May improve blood sugar control
- May lower cholesterol levels
- Has anticancer and antitumor activity
- Has been shown to improve depression when consumed with turmeric
What is it?
Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is a perennial climbing vine and the spice is made from its fruits (the peppercorns). Native to India, it is one of the earliest spices known. Used in cuisine worldwide, pepper is also used in medicine as a carminative (to relieve flatulence) and as a stimulant of gastric secretions. Black pepper is a good source of manganese and vitamin K, among other vitamins and minerals.