Indications
Long Pepper (Piper longum, known as pippali or pipul) is a spice and medicinal herb used in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. Its dried fruit is traditionally used for cough, colds, asthma-like breathing problems and bronchitis, to improve appetite and digestion, and to relieve wind (gas). It is a common ingredient in herbal cough syrups and digestive mixtures. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited.
How It Works
Long pepper contains piperine and other pungent compounds. These are thought to help loosen mucus, warm the body, stimulate digestive juices and reduce wind. Piperine also increases how much of some other medicines and nutrients the body absorbs, which is why it is often added to herbal combinations.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner. It is usually taken after meals. Small amounts used in cooking are safe for most people.
Interactions
- Piperine can increase blood levels of some medicines, such as Phenytoin, Theophylline, Propranolol, Rifampicin and Cyclosporine, which may raise the risk of side effects. Ask your doctor if you take any regular medicines.
- It may lower blood sugar and slow blood clotting; take care with diabetes medicines and with blood thinners such as Warfarin.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy, in medicinal amounts.
- Active stomach ulcer or severe acid reflux.
- Known allergy to long pepper or other peppers.
Side Effects
At normal amounts it is usually well tolerated. Possible side effects include a burning feeling in the mouth or stomach, heartburn, stomach upset and diarrhoea.
Get urgent medical help if you vomit blood, pass black stools, have severe stomach pain, or show signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Avoid medicinal amounts during pregnancy, as it is traditionally considered able to affect the womb. Small amounts in food are fine. Ask a doctor before using it as a medicine while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- A cough that lasts more than three weeks, coughing up blood, or breathlessness needs a medical check-up.
- Stop taking it at least two weeks before planned surgery, because it may affect bleeding and blood sugar.
- Use in children only as directed by a practitioner.
Overdose
Large amounts may cause severe burning in the stomach, vomiting and diarrhoea. Contact a doctor if a large amount has been taken.
Therapeutic Class
Ayurvedic / Unani herbal preparation (cough and digestive herb).
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.