Pepper is a spice which is used more than 20 centuries. It is native to South-east Asia, more precisely the Indian peninsula. In ancient times, it was used as a trade good. From the Indian peninsula, it was transferred to other parts of the world. There are three different types of peppercorns: green, black and white. They all grow on the same plant. The main usage of pepper is as a spice. But it was also frequently used in folk medicine. Active molecule in pepper is called piperine. In recent years, more studies on health benefits of pepper on human health have been published.
The Main Benefits of Pepper are:
Antioxidant Properties
Antioxidants are used to prevent cell damage. They prevent generation of free radicals in our body. Natural antioxidants are found mostly in vegetables and fruits. One of them is black pepper. Piperine, a constituent found in pepper protects against oxidative damage by inhibiting free radicals and reactive oxygen species, as well as positively influencing antioxidant enzymes (Vasanthi 2010). Also, there are numerous other studies which confirm the beneficial influence of black pepper on oxidative stress.
Prevent cancer
One of the most important discoveries is the ability of pepper in preventing cancer. Piperine (1-piperoyl piperidine), an active ingredient in white pepper has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor properties.( Srinivasan K., 2007). This finding is confirmed by the research conducted by Liu Y., (2010) who say that results suggest that black pepper exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer activities.
Decrease Level of Cholesterol
Black pepper Reduces the serum levels of cholesterol and lipids. Black pepper mobilizes fatty acids. Black pepper and piperine can significantly decrease levels of cholesterol, fatty acids, phospholipids, and triglycerides (Vijayakumar R. 2002). Pepper increases the level of HDL and decreases the levels of LDL and VLDL cholesterol.
Recovery from Myocardial Infarct
Black pepper is very rich in vanadium and vanadium promotes cardiac functional recovery and pressure induced hypertrophy (Shenuarin B. 2009)
Apsorption of Minerals and Vitamins
Pepper can help in absorption of many microelements, vitamins, and other nutrients. Piperine has the potential to increase absorption of beta-carotene, vitamin B, selenium, and curcumin (Dudhatra, G.B. et al. 2012). Piperine increases actual body exposure to drugs such as phenytoin, propranolol, and theophylline (Hu Z. 2005). It also increases the concentration of rifampicin in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis.
Enhances Analgesia
Pepper can be used to enhance effects of analgesic drugs, such as diclofenac sodium and pentazocine. This was evidenced by a research conducted by Pooja S. Et and colleagues in 2007. Pepper can be applied topically also to reduce pain and inflammation.
Respiratory Congestion
Pepper is a well known traditional medicine for respiratory congestion. It is the most frequently used with the symptoms of colds and flu. It makes the mucus membranes of digestive tract less swollen. It helps mucus expectoration and drainage.
Apart from benefits mentioned above, pepper has many more benefits on humans health. It enhances the secretion of digestion juices, and thus speeds up the digestion process through the intestines. This way the food stays in contact with intestines for less time and this reduces the time of food absorption.
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