Black Pepper is also known as the king of spices, though it doesn’t demand a lot in your diet. A pinch every meal is all that is required to make it work its charm. It is not just used as a spice in your meals but also has enriched medicinal values, making it an essential ingredient in Ayurveda. The dried fruit is also called Piper nigrum, and it is ubiquitous in various cuisines.
Black pepper is made from the unripened green drupes plant (stone fruit), which are known as peppercorns. They are cooked and dried, and it has been used in cooking for a long time and it became famous across Europe. The active constituent known as Piperine is what gives the pungency to the fruit.
Black pepper and its varieties
- Black peppercorn
- White peppercorn
- Green peppercorn
- Red peppercorn
- Pink peppercorn
There are more than six hundred varieties, and only a few are used. The most commonly used pepper variety is black and white.
What is black pepper used for?
In Ayurveda, this spice is very common. It is also traditionally considered to be a hot and pungent spice that can stimulate Agni or digestive fire by enhancing the fluid secretion and blood circulation in the gastrointestinal tract. There are many health properties that you know about. Many start their day with a cup of hot water and black pepper powder.
Black pepper for medicine
Medically, the spice is said to calm digestive problems – it can signal the stomach to make more hydrochloric acid which helps in protein digestion. This, in turn, can help address various health issues like constipation, gas heartburn. The spice can also promote detoxification through sweating. Also, the spice can treat scabies and prevent nerve–related pain.
Black pepper in Kitchen
The spice offers iron, manganese, and vitamin K, and it is an excellent dietary fiber. From the culinary viewpoint, the spice uses are almost unlimited, but some traditional recommendations include coating meats with crushed peppercorns. You can also add them to warm beverages like tea and also sprinkle the powder to cut fruit.
You can choose whole peppercorns that you can grind before using them in dishes. Whole spice ensures that you are getting only the spice – not a blend of other spices. When buying peppercorns, choose the ones that are heavy. When kept in an air-tight container set away from light and heat, this will surely last for a long time. The shelf life of pepper can be good, roughly 3 months. You can also add pepper after removing the dish from direct heat to ensure the best flavor.
Health Benefits of Black Pepper (Kali Mirch)
There are plenty of health benefits of black pepper. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals like
- Iron
- Vitamin C B2 and B6
- Phosphorus
- Copper and
- Magnesium
The herb also has a large quantity of fiber, which is important for great digestion. Some of the top health benefits of black pepper include;
Enhances digestion
Black pepper helps in promoting the hydrochloric acid secretion in your stomach, which is essential for digestion. It is highly carminative; it helps ease flatulence. The health benefits of black pepper include removing toxins from your body through increased sweating and urination. It can also clean out the impurities stuck in uric acid, pores, fat, and urea. So, the next time when you feel your tummy full, never try to pop a pill – just grind some peppercorns.
An excellent remedy for cough and cold
Another great benefit of black pepper is that it offers relief from nasal congestion and sinusitis. It can break down specific depositions in your respiratory tract and then trashes them out of your body. In Ayurveda, black pepper is an essential ingredient in cough tonics and other medicines.
Helps weight loss
Your fat cells can be easily broken down into easily digestible components, which are then also used for other bodily functions and reactions.
It helps in treating ulcers
The benefit of eating black pepper includes treating stomach ulcers (peptic ulcers). It can also fight issues arising due to stomach mucosal repair.
Maintains healthy skin
Black pepper benefits for skin can go deep! Skin conditions such as Vitiligo, in some areas of the skin, might turn white after losing the usual pigmentation, can also be treated by combining black pepper with ultraviolet light therapy. It can also lessen the risk of skin cancer which can be due to UV rays. It helps in maintaining a glowing and smooth complexion.
Absorption of nutrients
When taken with other nutrient-rich veggies and fruits, black pepper helps your body to absorb the maximum nutrition. It increased the accessibility and bioavailability of nutrients bypassing their benefits to other parts of the body.
Fights depression
People suffering from depression can also take black pepper to enhance brain functions and also improve memory. Regular intake of black pepper can help in alleviating depression, significantly enhancing your brain functionality.
Promotes healthy heart
Patients suffering from heart diseases can also take black pepper. It can remove the cholesterol that is blocked in the arteries. This can prevent a medical condition known as atherosclerosis which is the main reason for heart attacks.
Soothes toothaches
Another excellent benefit of using black pepper is reducing toothaches and other gum-related issues. It is loaded with antibacterial and antimicrobial elements, and it can help in preventing the spread of bacteria in your mouth. You can also apply it to the painful gums with some salt added to it.
Can prevent gray hair
Gray hair is one of the most common issues that is being faced by many young kids as well. This spice can prevent the early graying of hair. Massage some black pepper powder with some Dahi or curd into your scalp and allow it to rest sometime. Now rinse it well. You will notice a significant effect after using this concoction regularly.
Lower blood pressure
If you have hypertension, you are likely to get benefitted from the herb. Taking black pepper moderately along with your regular medication can protect your heart against high blood pressure.
Black pepper benefits of hair
If you are wondering about how black pepper can benefit hair growth, then you are in the right place. We have listed the top benefits and also explained them briefly.
Controls dandruff
If you have a flaky scalp, then this herb can help you fight it. The Vitamin C present in the spice can cleanse your scalp and get rid of dandruff from your scalp. Just add some black pepper powder in some coconut oil and massage gently, making sure the hair roots and tips are covered well. Allow it to rest for some time, and then wash off with a regular shampoo.
Can reduce hair fall
Hair fall is also common these days due to stress, health issues, and pollution. No single treatment can benefit all. However, black pepper is a splendid herb worth giving a try! If you have a scalp infection, then black pepper’s antibacterial elements can fight your scalp infections. Also, vitamin C can help fight hair damage and thinning.
Helps in hair growth
Black pepper and olive oil can benefit hair growth. Olive oil can stimulate your hair follicles when paired with this spice; you have got a wondrous hair growth stimulant that has the potential to fight scalp-related infections and also help in hair growth. If you want to know how to use this herb, then taken some;
- Olive oil
- Black pepper
Mix both the ingredients and allow the mixture to store for about a couple of weeks. Now drain the oil and massage it on the scalp. You can allow it to sit for some time and rinse your hair with cold water.
Hair cleaner
If you are facing an unclean and dry scalp. Use black pepper with some lemon juice. It acts as an excellent scalp cleanser that removes all the dirt and debris on your scalp while sealing the moisture. Allow the mask to sit some time, then wash with warm water.
Opt for organic black pepper for hair if you are considering using the spice for your scalp or hair problems as they are grown without using any pesticides and harmful chemicals. If you are looking for organic black pepper-based products, well-known brands like Traya products and others are proven to provide better results.
Black Pepper Benefits for Skin
Kali Mirch benefits for the skin include;
Fights wrinkles
If you have fine lines and wrinkles, use black pepper. They are loaded with antioxidants which can reduce the symptoms of aging. You don’t have to burn your pocket spending so much on expensive creams. Using black pepper for skin can rejuvenate your skin and show dire results on your skin. If your skin is acne-prone, then the spice can also be used as face masks.
Dead skin exfoliator
The spice can be used for exfoliation as well. They can remove the dead cells from the skin and can make it glowing and refreshing. It can enhance blood circulation and offer more oxygen and nutrients as well.
You will feel hydrated and fresh when you start to use the herb. Black pepper is also used in various beauty products that have exfoliation properties. So, if you are longing for clear, soft, and supple skin, start using black pepper for skin exfoliation.
How to use Black Pepper?
Black pepper is used in various savoury dishes and sweet delicacies to spice them up a bit with a twist.
Some of the ideas on how to use them in your cooking;
- Sprinkle some in salads with olive oil and cider vinegar
- Add to eggs or cheese-based dishes
- You can sprinkle some in soups, stews, and sauces
- Add a bit of salt and black pepper to your fruits for that extra kick
- You can rub black pepper on meats before cooking
- Black pepper sauce can also be made
- Add a dash of black pepper for sweet and spicy savouries
- Add some to your mashed potatoes
Black Pepper Benefits with Hot Water
The immune system is one thing that can make us feel stronger. Strength matters a lot to our overall health. Suffering from diseases not just drains out the energy but also reduces productivity down. Health care is the biggest luxury anyone can provide.
A poor immune system can make you fall sick frequently. Drinking hot water with some black pepper powder every day on an empty stomach can give you a wide range of health benefits.
It can prevent dehydration.
Black pepper with hot water benefits your cell to be nourished and hydrated. This can keep you safe from dehydration, dry skin, and fatigue as well.
Boosts your stamina
Once you start drinking black pepper with hot water in the morning, you will notice that your body stamina is increased two times. It can make you look energetic and can also boost your metabolism.
Prevents constipation
If you are suffering from chronic constipation, then try hot water with black pepper powder. You will notice your bowel movements better this time. It will help in eliminating all the toxins from your body, and you will not suffer from ailments such as constipation and piles ever.
It detoxifies your body.
The health potion can eliminate the nuisances that are collected in our body with time. It can flush out the toxins and helps you to live a healthy life that you have been wondering about.
Side Effects of Black Pepper
You must also be highly cautious about the amount of black pepper consumption. The improper amount can cause very serious damages to your body, some of which can be fatal as well.
- Redness of skin - when you apply black pepper on your skin, it is safer for some. But it might also cause some burning sensation and redness on the skin.
- Miscarriage – when taken black pepper moderately, it doesn’t harm the pregnancy. But taking huge amounts can be unsafe and trigger a miscarriage. Also, using black pepper directly on the skin should be avoided during pregnancy.
- GI Adverse effects - the possible effects of consuming the herb by mouth might result in stomach upset and other GI effects. Patients suffering from such disorders might limit the intake of the herb.
- Oesophageal cancer - It is said that there might be a link between oesophageal cancer. This is a controversial belief, though.
What do nutritionists say?
A lot of the advice published says that black pepper is not safe to use in pregnancy but in moderation. Some women do experience black pepper cravings in pregnancy. But when used in moderation, there will be no harm passed to the fetus.
Final takeaway
There are plenty of benefits of eating black pepper spice. It’s been lauded by a nutritionist to help various illnesses without having to resort to further treatment. Having said that, be fair when you sprinkle this herb on your meal plate and enjoy it!
Faqs
1.Can I eat black pepper daily?
You can include black pepper in your diet daily but make sure to have it in moderation. Never consume more than a couple of teaspoons every day. Consuming it in excess can have various side effects.
- Is black pepper bad for your kidneys?
Your doctor might suggest you take black pepper in your diet if you have kidney stones.
3.Why is black pepper expensive?
Depending on the variety and origin, black pepper can cost around $12000 per ton
4.Can I take black pepper for a cough?
Yes, there are loads of benefits of black pepper and honey for cold and cough. It is often suggested as an ingredient for respiratory issues.
5.Does black pepper cause gas?
Black pepper can reduce gas and digest food due easily. It can stimulate hydrochloric acid production, which is made by the stomach for protein digestion and other food elements.
- Which is hotter black pepper or white?
The difference lies in the processing. The black layer is removed in white pepper, and white is hotter than black, which is also used in French cuisines and an essential spice in the American kitchen.
- What does black pepper taste like?
It has a sharp and piney flavour. It can be hot and biting to taste.
- Why is black pepper bad for you?
Black pepper, when taken high–dose, might lead to adverse effects such as throat and stomach burning sensation, which might also trigger ulcers.
- Can Black pepper raise BP?
The active substance of black pepper can alleviate hypertension.
- How much black pepper is suggested per day?
Including black pepper does not harm, but make sure to have them in moderation. Never consume more than a couple of spoons per day. Having them in excess can have various side effects.
- Can black pepper make you gain weight?
Black pepper can turn any dull dish into a lip-smacking dish and can also help in shedding weight as the spice is loaded with vitamins and minerals, healthy fatty acids. They work as a natural metabolic booster and helps in weight loss as well.
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