6 beneficial properties of black pepper

Black pepper is often cited as a healthy ingredient, but as a companion that enhances the assimilation of turmeric. However, black pepper possesses properties that make it valuable on its own.

grains of black, green and white pepper come from the same plantPiper Nigrum), native to Asia. Black pepper is the whole and partially ripe fruit; the green is the immature fruit; and the white one is the peeled seed.

Black pepper is a proven antibacterial agent, and the compounds in this spice also help protect the integrity of genetic material, which makes it a possible weapon against cancer.

The aroma and properties are greater in the freshly ground pepper, so it is worth acquiring it whole and grinding it at the moment.

Black pepper properties

1. It is very antioxidant

Free radicals are unstable molecules that They can damage the cells and tissues of our body. Some are produced by your own metabolism when you exercise or digest food. In moderate doses they are used by the immune system to attack pathogenic bacteria and viruses, but when they are produced in excess they become a problem: they are linked to inflammation, premature aging, heart disease and some types of cancer.

Black pepper is rich in a plant compound called viperin with powerful antioxidant properties, which prevent or delay the damaging effects of free radicals.

Do you know why you should add pepper to your tea? In this video we explain it to you:

2. It is anti-inflammatory

Chronic inflammation can be a underlying factor in many diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

Piperine, the main active ingredient in pepper, effectively fights inflammation, as has been found in studies with animals suffering from arthritis. Viperin treatment reduced joint swelling and blood markers of inflammation, according to an article published in Arthritis Research and Therapy.

3. It is beneficial for the brain

Piperine has been shown to improves brain function in animal studies. In particular, it has shown possible benefits for symptoms related to degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

A study in rats with Alzheimer’s disease found that piperine memory improved, and in another study it decreased the formation of amyloid plaques that are related to the progression of the disease. However, human studies are needed to confirm these effects.

4. Improves blood sugar control

Studies indicate that viperin may improve blood sugar metabolism, favoring lower peaks. In one study, 86 overweight people who took a supplement containing piperine and other compounds for 8 weeks experienced significant improvements in sensitivity to insulin, the hormone that controls blood sugar levels.

5. Reduces cholesterol levels

Black pepper extract has been studied in animals for its potential to lower cholesterol levels. In a 42-day study with mice fed a high-fat diet and an extract of black pepper showed reduced blood cholesterol levels, including LDL (bad) cholesterol compared to the control group.

6. Increases the absorption of nutrients

In addition to multiplying up to 20 times the absorption of curcumin, black pepper can increase the assimilation of essential nutrients such as calcium and selenium.

Black pepper in the kitchen

Black pepper has become a staple ingredient in kitchens around the world. A pinch of ground black pepper is a tasty seasoning for cooked vegetables and pasta dishes. You can sprinkle tofu and other plant proteins with freshly ground pepper, among other seasonings. It goes perfectly with turmeric, cardamom, cumin, garlic and lemon zest.

Scientific references: