Black pepper is known as black gold. It is believed that for centuries, humans have been using it to conduct trade and get prosperous by the minute.
A constant in every Middle Eastern cuisine, black pepper sure has its fans everywhere. The unique pinching-chilly flavor distinguished it from regular pepperoni.
Pepperoni is known for its more direct taste, while pepper enhances itself by blending into the dish it is added to. Apart from being a flavorful spice, it also has multiple health benefits to its name.
This blog will discuss the health benefits and uses of black pepper fruit extract. Read on to learn how amazing its uses are.
Hence, it is every chef’s first love.
What are the health benefits of black pepper fruit extract?
Black pepper is a small black seed that is dried in the sun and then powered. Sometimes the raw black pepper also becomes tasty to eat and is often ground into paste to be added to dishes.
Its extract is equally popular. So what would be its benefits? Let’s look at some of them below.
Digestion
We know how complex the digestion process is. Along with a bunch of organs, it also involves a lot of bacteria that release a lot of acids into the stomach to digest it.
Black pepper fruit extract can help the body produce hydrochloric acid, which ensures the proper breakdown of food in the stomach. It prevents bloating as well as other gastrointestinal issues.
Enhanced nutrient absorption
The absorption of nutrients is an important part of energy metabolism. It is not easy to absorb some nutrients, and that is where the curcumin in pepper comes into play.
Curcumin can enhance the absorption rate of certain nutrients that otherwise would remain in the system for a long period, causing harm.
Anti-oxidant properties
Due to several reasons, it is not uncommon for the body to form free radicals, which often interfere with the functions of the body.
But what black pepper fruit extract does is oxidize these radicals and, hence, oxidize them. This way,it won’t be able to create the havoc it usually does.
Anti-Inflammatory effects
Our body is prone to diseases, and many of them occur due to the inflammation of the organs. This happens when toxins enter our bodies in multiple ways.
However, if you take enough pepper extract, you could be able to control it to some extent and get relief from arthritis and similar ailments.
Weight management
This is one of the lesser-known benefits of black pepper fruit extract. Consuming it in limited amounts can help increase the metabolic rate, which means the body will digest fat faster than ever.
Additionally, it also stops the body from accumulating fat in various places, which prevents weight gain.
Respiratory relief
Ever since the time of the sages, pepper has been known to have warming properties, which means it could provide relief from breathing problems like asthma and bronchitis.
All the ayurvedic concoctions contain pepper in one form or another.
Antibacterial properties
Imagine that, with some goodness already, pepper extract can also put an end to bacterial infections, which run rampant oftentimes. Moreover, this can also be attributed to its warming characteristics.
Skin health
Unknown to many, skin health can also be improved with the use of black pepper in skincare products, as it is an antioxidant.
Pain relief
Conditions like arthritis and muscle sprains could lead to excruciating pain, and this condition could be managed by pepper fruit extract.
Anti-depressant
Researchers have also been able to discover evidence to support the claims that pepper extract can help with the secretion of neurotransmitters.
Uses of black pepper fruit extract
Since it is derived from the piper nigrum plant, it has various uses that are much different from pepper itself, like the following:
Dietary supplements
It is often found in dietary supplements, as it helps reduce weight through thermogenesis. However, it is rarely used alone and is often used in combination with turmeric to get the desired effect.
Nutritional formulations
It is also seen in nutritional bars, protein powders, or spreads so that they contain a unique flavor and at the same time get enough curcumin.
Besides, the thermogenic property increases its appeal manifold, and every brand is tempted to use it in their weight loss tablets. However, it is important to consult a doctor before using them as some could be allergic.
Pharmaceutical benefits
Though you might not believe it, these are also part of many medicines, all thanks to their numerous properties that help physiological functions.
These medicines can be used by people with pain issues or various skin diseases.
Topical applications
We know how its anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant properties make it unique. So it is no surprise when it is used in creams that are applied to wounds.
Functional foods and beverages
Certain kinds of teas or drinks are quite popular. Similarly, black pepper fruit extract often finds its place in teas and other drinks, which makes it useful for the beverage industry.
Research studies
Scientists are still curious about the uses of black pepper fruit extracts, and they are in constant search for a cure for this magical potion. Though we don’t know how much of it will yield results, sometimes trying is all you need.
Conclusion
The black pepper fruit extract has spread its wings over various industries. People with an aversion to raw pepper depend on it for its nutritional benefits.
However, its implications for the human body have yet to be fully studied. Researchers are also interested in using curcumin to generate a medicine for cancer, along with other similar compounds.
Mostly in its infancy, it does promise a bright future with this liquid gold, which is now the talk of the town. It is always expected to trust your doctor when using creams or powders with the extract.
People who are allergic to pepper needn’t necessarily be allergic to its compound and therefore need a thorough checkup.
References:
- Duangjai, Acharaporn; Ingkaninan, Kornkanok; Praputbut, Sakonwun; Limpeanchob, Nanteetip 2013-04-01
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22736065/ - Banerjee S., Katiyar P., Kumar V., Saini S.S., Varshney R., Krishnan V., Sircar D., Roy P. Black pepper and piperine induce anticancer effects on leukemia cell line. Toxicol. Res. 2021;10:232–248. doi: 10.1093/toxres/tfab001.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8045589/
