Black pepper has a small ball-like black structure way back in existence to time immortal. The history of medieval trade is incomplete without the importance of this “black gold”. The early Roman Traders entered the country via Malabar Coast and got access to this spice. The spice of abundantly grown in the southern part of the country and got dearer as the demand kept increasing in European countries. This spice is readily used in maximum parts of the world apart from our country. The aroma of freshly crushed black pepper can drive us crazy.
Apart from aroma and flavor, this spice has various medicinal and health benefits for the human body. Following are a few important benefits of this spice.
- HEALTHY & WRINKLE-FREE SKIN: Piperine is a black substance found in black pepper, having a high anti-oxidant level. This helps in fighting against bacteria causing damage to skin cells. It also possesses anti-bacterial properties to fight against skin infections and acne problems. Being a hot pepper, mix it with honey, curd, or olive oil before applying it to your face. It will help in the removal of dead cells and enhances your blood circulation.
- FASTENS DIGESTION PROCESS: The use of black pepper stimulates your digestion process by secreting more hydrochloric acid and easing the digestion of proteins. Flavoring your food with black pepper makes digestion easier.
- DETOXIFICATION: Being a hot spice, it creates more heat in the body and helps in the removal of toxins. Do keep in mind its usage. A pinch is sufficient to be added to your detoxification drink. Excess of everything is bad holds true for this black gold.
- WEIGHT LOSS: Black pepper contains high amounts of phytonutrients; which helps in the burning of fats in our food and improve our metabolism. The extra toxins and water is removed by consuming fresh black pepper in form of sweat and urination. This further helps you in losing weight.
- REGULATES BLOOD SUGAR: The presence of PIPERINE in black pepper regulates your insulin cells in the body. It helps in improving the health of diabetic patients. Adding black pepper to amla juice can enhance its value and prove beneficial for diabetic people.
- PREVENTS CANCER: The presence of piperine in black pepper helps in the prevention and suppression of cancer cells. The usage also works wonders with turmeric. It is also rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C.
- HELPS IN COMMON COLD & COUGH: When consumed crushed black pepper with honey and turmeric, it helps in relieving cold and cough. It has antibiotic benefits as it contains Vitamin C. It can also relieve chest congestion caused because of pollution or viral infection. People have been readily adding it to their KARHAS during COVID-19.
- RELIEVES DEPRESSION: Chewing black peppercorn can help in relieving one from their depression and enhances mood swings.
Next time don’t place the jar of black pepper on the back shelf. Use it frequently for health benefits and its taste. Sprinkle freshly crushed black pepper on your fruit and salad bowls. Add them to your buttermilk and curd.
Written by: Ruchi Mehta
Health Blogger
