Black pepper

📌 What Is Black Pepper?

Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is one of the most widely used spices worldwide. Obtained from the dried fruits of the pepper plant, it is noted for its intense flavor and health benefits. The active substance piperine gives it both its spicy taste and therapeutic properties.

Black pepper →black pepper is obtained by harvesting the green berries, which are then dried in the sun. During drying, the peel blackens and becomes hard.

📊 Nutrition Facts (per 100g)

Black pepper is a rich source of essential nutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains vitamins and minerals important for good health:

• Calories: 251 kcal
• Protein: 10.4 g
• Carbohydrates: 64.8 g
• Fat: 3.3 g
• Fiber: 25.3 g
• Vitamin C: 21 mg
• Vitamin K: 163.7 µg
• Iron: 9.7 mg
• Calcium: 443 mg
• Magnesium: 171 mg

💚 Beneficial Effects

• Stimulates digestion - Increases secretion of digestive enzymes and improves nutrient absorption.
• Natural anti-inflammatory - Reduces inflammation in the body, useful in conditions such as arthritis.
• Powerful antioxidant - Protects cells against oxidative stress and premature aging.
• Improves metabolism - Stimulates fat burning and may help lose weight.
• Antibacterial effect - Helps fight bacterial infections and supports the immune system.
• Prevents colds and flu - Thanks to its expectorant properties, it helps clear mucus.
• Improves blood circulation - Helps prevent cardiovascular disease.
• Protects brain health - May reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
• Relieves joint pain - Used in herbal remedies for arthritis and rheumatism.
• Natural detoxifier - Stimulates liver function and eliminates toxins from the body.

Contraindications and Adverse Effects

• Gastric irritant - Consumed in excess, may cause heartburn or acid reflux.
• Skin irritant - When applied directly, may cause irritation or allergic reactions.
• Drug interactions - May influence absorption of certain drugs, including anticoagulants.
• Not recommended in pregnancy - In large amounts may stimulate uterine contractions.
• Avoid in hemorrhoids - May aggravate symptoms due to its irritating effect.

Natural Black Pepper Remedies

🌿 Black pepper has been used for centuries in various traditional remedies. Here are some therapeutic recipes:

1. Tea for colds and flu

✔️ Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 250 ml hot water

✔️ Preparation:

Add pepper to boiling water, steep for 5 minutes and add honey. Drink 2-3 times a day to relieve cold symptoms.

2. Cure for healthy digestion 🍽️

✔️ Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon honey

✔️ Directions:

Consume this mixture before meals to stimulate digestion.

3. Poultice for joint pain 🦵

✔️ Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons coconut oil

✔️ How to use:

Apply the mixture to painful areas and massage gently to relieve inflammation.

4. Cough syrup

✔️ Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 200 ml warm water

❓ Did you know...? 🤔

• The piperine in black pepper increases the absorption of turmeric by up to 2000%.
• In the Middle Ages, pepper was used as currency.
• It has antidepressant properties, stimulating the release of endorphins.
• In Ayurvedic medicine, pepper is used to treat respiratory problems.
• It helps curb appetite and can be beneficial in weight loss.
• It is a natural preservative, preventing the growth of bacteria in food.
• It can be used to treat dental infections and toothache.
• Combats chronic fatigue and boosts energy levels.
• Increases serotonin production, helping to improve mood.
• In ancient China, it was considered an aphrodisiac.