Indications
Black Pepper is the dried unripe fruit of the Piper nigrum vine, a familiar kitchen spice. In Unani, Ayurvedic and herbal medicine it is used as an ingredient in remedies for indigestion, wind and poor appetite, for cough, cold and sore throat, and sometimes in joint pain preparations. It is also added to some supplements to help the body absorb other ingredients, such as Curcumin. Scientific evidence for its medicinal uses is limited.
How It Works
Its main active compound, piperine, gives the hot taste. Piperine stimulates saliva and digestive juices, has mild anti inflammatory effects in laboratory studies, and slows the breakdown of some substances in the gut wall and liver, which raises their levels in the blood. This is why it is used to boost absorption, and also why it can interact with medicines.
Dosage and Administration
Take herbal products containing black pepper as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner. Normal amounts used in cooking are safe.
Interactions
- Piperine may raise blood levels of some medicines, including Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Theophylline, Propranolol, Ciclosporin and Rifampicin, increasing the risk of side effects.
- It may add to the effect of blood thinners such as Warfarin, and of diabetes medicines.
- Tell your doctor about all medicines and herbal products you take.
Contraindications
- Allergy to black pepper or any ingredient.
- Active stomach or duodenal ulcer, or severe acid reflux, unless a doctor agrees.
Side Effects
In medicinal amounts it may cause a burning feeling in the mouth or stomach, heartburn, nausea or stomach upset.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread rash), vomiting blood, or black, tarry stools.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Black pepper in normal food amounts is safe. Larger medicinal amounts are not well studied in pregnancy or breastfeeding; ask your doctor before use.
Precautions and Warnings
- Keep away from the eyes; ground pepper is very irritating.
- Do not let young children inhale pepper powder, as it can cause choking and breathing problems.
- Tell your doctor before surgery if you take high dose pepper supplements.
Overdose
Large amounts can cause severe stomach irritation, burning, vomiting and diarrhoea. Inhaling a large amount of powder can be dangerous, especially for children. Seek medical help if this happens.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal ingredient (carminative and digestive stimulant; bioavailability enhancer).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.