Indications
Piper nigrum is black pepper, the dried fruit of a climbing plant. In Unani and Ayurvedic medicine it is used, usually as one ingredient among several herbs, for indigestion, loss of appetite, gas and bloating, and for cough, cold and blocked chest with mucus. It is also added to some formulas to help the body absorb other ingredients. Scientific evidence for these traditional uses is limited.
How It Works
Black pepper contains piperine, a pungent compound that stimulates saliva and digestive juices and may improve the movement of the gut. Its warming, irritant action is thought to loosen mucus in the airways. Piperine also slows the breakdown of some substances in the gut and liver, which can increase the amount of other herbs or medicines absorbed into the blood.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani or Ayurvedic practitioner, usually after meals with water, honey or as the product describes. Do not take more than the recommended amount. Normal use of black pepper in food is not a concern.
Interactions
Because piperine can raise the blood levels of some medicines, use medicinal black pepper products with caution if you take Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Theophylline, Propranolol, Ciclosporin, Rifampicin or blood thinners such as Warfarin. Tell your doctor about any herbal product you use, especially before starting a new medicine.
Contraindications
Avoid medicinal doses if you are allergic to black pepper, or if you have a stomach or duodenal ulcer, severe acid reflux or inflammatory bowel disease.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include:
- Burning feeling in the mouth or stomach, heartburn or acidity
- Stomach upset or loose stools
- Sneezing or irritation if the powder is inhaled or gets into the eyes
Get urgent medical help for signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing, or for severe stomach pain or vomiting blood.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Black pepper in normal food amounts is safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Medicinal doses and concentrated products should be avoided unless a doctor advises them, as their safety has not been shown.
Precautions and Warnings
Herbal formulas may contain other ingredients with their own cautions, so read the full label. Do not give medicinal products to young children without advice, and keep powder away from children because inhaling it can cause choking. See a doctor if a cough lasts more than 2 weeks, if digestive symptoms are severe, or if you lose weight without trying.
Overdose
Large amounts may cause severe stomach burning, vomiting and diarrhoea. Seek medical advice, especially if a child has swallowed or inhaled a large amount.
Therapeutic Class
Unani and Ayurvedic herbal preparation (digestive and expectorant).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.