We’ve touched upon black pepper before, but it was only to emphasize how it could greatly improve the bioavailability of curcumin in turmeric.
Black pepper is one of the most widely used spices on the planet, but the health benefits of its oil are rarely mentioned.
Let’s briefly go over them:
- Relieves Aches and Pains
Because of its warming, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, black pepper oil works to reduce muscle injuries, tendonitis, and symptoms of arthritis and rheumatism.
- Aids Digestion
Black pepper oil may help ease the discomfort of constipation, diarrhea, and gas. Black pepper has been used to effectively treat IBS (Irrıtable Bowel Syndrome) symptoms as well as bladder dysfunctions.
- Lowers Cholesterol
In a 2002 study researchers found that supplementation with black pepper elevated the concentration of HDL cholesterol in the plasma of rats fed high-fat foods. Use black pepper essential oil internally to reduce high triglycerides and improve your total cholesterol levels.
- Has Antiviral Properties
The long-term use of antibiotics has resulted in the evolution of multi-drug-resistant bacteria. This is a very big problem in Turkey, where antibiotic use is breaking all kinds of records. Research published in Applied Microbiology and Biotechnologypoints out that black pepper extract contains ant-virulence properties, meaning it targets bacterial virulence without affecting cell viability, which may be less prone to the development of drug resistance.
- Encourages Circulation
When black pepper essential oil is taken internally, it promotes healthy circulation and stimulates mucus and bile flow. Mix black pepper oil with cinnamon or turmeric essential oil to enhance these circulatory activities.
- Exhibits Anticancer Activity
According to a 2010 study conducted at Michigan State University (where I went to graduate school, by the way), black pepper oil and its constituents exhibited anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer activities. All compounds derived from black pepper suppressed human cancer cell proliferation, with peperine being the most effective compound.
- Eases Feelings of Anxiety and Cigarette cravings
A 1994 study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that black pepper oil could suppress certain smoking withdrawal symptoms, including cravings for cigarettes. Some smokers puffed on a device that delivered black pepper essential oil, some on one with mint/menthol and a third group on an empty device. The black pepper group reported cravings were significantly reduced relative to the other two groups.
I guess, the anxiety reduction will also help in alcohol cravings.
- Helps Detoxify the Body
Black pepper oil creates a warming sensation when applied topically, so it increases sweating. It also serves as a diuretic and increases urination, helping remove bodily toxins and excess water from the body. This reduces swelling and inflammation; plus it can help lower blood pressure naturally.
A 2013 study published in Cell Biochemistry and Biophysics found that peperine supplementation helped normalize blood pressure, improved glucose tolerance, reduced inflammation and improved liver function in rats fed a high-fat diet. These changes clearly suggest that peperine reduces symptoms of human metabolic syndrome by helping the body remove toxins and reduce inflammation.
- Serves as an Appetite Stimulant
In 2008, the effects of olfactory stimulation with black pepper oil were investigated in pediatric patients receiving long-term enteral nutrition (feeding with liquid supplements or tube feeding) due to neurological disorders. In 8 out of 10 patients, black pepper oil intervention was continued for three months, and five patients showed increases in the amount of oral intake – plus black pepper treatment helped facilitate swallowing movement.
- Can Be Used as a Food Preservative.
In a 2015 study, researchers found that black pepper oil displayed antimicrobial, antifungal and antibacterial activity, and successfully inhibited the growth of bacteria in chicken soup. The results of this study reveal that both green pepper and black pepper essential oils are efficient in controlling the growth of known food-spoilage microorganisms.
How to Use Black Pepper Oil
When using topically, use small doses and dilute with coconut, jojoba or almond oil. Use 1:1 dilution.
There are so many ways to use black pepper oil, and its uses go far beyond flavoring your food. Here are some easy ways to use black pepper oil at home:
- To increase circulation and blood flow to the muscles and nerves, add 3-5 drops of black pepper oil to a warm compress and apply to the areas of concern.
- To ease the discomfort of constipation, diarrhea and gas, take 1-2 drops of black pepper oil internally by adding it to a smoothie, soup or dish.
- To relieve muscle injuries and tendonitis apply black pepper oil topically to the area of concern.
- To aid respiratory conditions, take internally or inhale the oil directly from the bottle.
- To relieve congested airways, apply 2-3 drops topically to the chest.
- To reduce cigarette cravings, diffuse black pepper oil or inhale it directly from the bottle when having a craving.
- To use it as a natural treatment for arthritis and rheumatism, apply 2-3 drops topically to the area of concern.
- To help detoxify the body, take 1-2 drops internally or apply 2-3 drops topically to the bottom of the feet.
- To add flavor to soups, stews, baked vegetables, salads and entrees, add 1-2 drops of black pepper oil.
That’s it for now my friends; see you all next time.
