by Sudeep Chitnis

Created on: December 13, 2009

Pepper: Benefits

The word Pepper comes from the Latin word piper which has been derived from the ancient Sanskrit word for black pepper called pippali. Pepper especially black pepper is a native of Southern India and other South Asian countries. Known for its value Black Pepper is also known as Black Gold in the olden days because of its value in Barter system.

 In this article we would try to have a look on different benefits of Black pepper on our Health. It’s the dried fruit of the plant Piper nigrum of the family Piperaceae. This spice is known for its culinary values for a long time in our books of history. So is the known value of this spice in books of healing. In Ayurveda many reference could be found of this herb regarding use of this herb for different diseases and health conditions.

Digestion and Pepper:

As said before from time long this spice has been a favourite spice in the kitchen, not just because of its taste, but also because of its role in our body especially in our digestive system. In Ayurveda black pepper is known for its power to increase appetite same as ginger. Recent studies clearly show that black pepper increases parietal secretion of hydrochloric acid that is known to aid digestion.

Also some folklore does suggest the use of pepper when one suffers with constipation or even bloating.

Respiratory System and Black pepper:

Typically when one suffers with some minor cold and cough, it is very common to be feed with small powders of black pepper, cloves and cardamom in combination with honey. This being very common medication in India for ages. Black pepper is said to produce heat require to reduce the cough.

Current scientific studies do agree on the role of black pepper effects on Lungs and its helpfulness. Thought researches are just at its beginning.

Sinusitis and Black pepper:

Applications of black pepper wrap on the fore head or even nose is a common practise to relive a person who suffers with sinusitis, headaches and migraines. Decoction of black pepper if given internally in small dose can be helpful too.

Inflammation and Black pepper:

Another area where one can use black pepper is on inflammation. Notice when one has small pustules which are not ready, but still hurt. In Ayurveda black pepper is applied on it so that such pustules get cooked and then can be easily drained from the skin surface.

Ayurvedic Doctor does also recommend the use of black pepper for applying over eyelids when having chalizon.

 Over all this is one of the spices that has excellent value even in small quantity, thus according to Ancient book on Buddhism Samannaphala Sutta, monks are allowed to carry certain herbs. Black pepper is one of those few...

Reference :

Wikipedia : Black Pepper

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