Black Pepper

Black Pepper, this understated spice, has many health benefits including but not limited to the following:  

Black Pepper contains piperine, vitamins C and A, flavonoids, carotenes and other anti-oxidants.  These nutrients make it an anti-inflammatory and an anti-oxidant (therefore a free radical quencher). It is especially powerful when combined with another common kitchen spice – turmeric.   According to a study carried out by the University of Michigan Cancer Center, black pepper was found to prevent the development of breast cancer tumors. Its ability to help prevent cancer is not limited to breast cancers. 

Adding black pepper to your meal helps with digestion.  The piperine  stimulates the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach which is essential for digestion.   It will also help the body assimilate nutrients. 

Black pepper promotes sweating and stimulates urination therefore it can aid in detoxification.

Piperine has been shown to assist in increasing cognitive function as well as being mentally up lifting therefore it is somewhat of an anti-depressant.

One does not need to consume massive quantities of black pepper to benefit from this understated spice – simply add 1/8-1/4 teaspoon to your meals daily.  Again it works synergistically with turmeric – and the combination taste amazing!