Black pepper the “king of spices” has been used in Indian medicine for thousands of years due to its high concentration of medicinal plant compounds. Some of the benefits of black pepper are:

  • High in antioxidants – Reduces free radicals. The unstable molecules that sometimes damage our cells. Excess free radical damage may lead to major health problems.
  • Protects good bacteria – Our immune systems depend on good bacteria flourishing in our guts.
  • Has anti-inflammatory properties – Piperine is the active compound in black pepper that reduces inflammation.
  • Cancer Fighter – Contains compounds which slow the replication of cancer cells, and can even cause some cancer cells to die.
  • Lowers blood sugar –  Helps keep blood sugar from spiking during and after meals. Also, helps regulate insulin sensitivity by removing glucose from the bloodstream.
  • Boosts absorption of nutrients – Especially helps increase the absorption of vitamin and mineral supplements.
  • Improves cognitive brain function- Alleviates some symptoms of Alzheimer’s and other degenerative brain diseases. Black pepper extract may improve blood sugar control, but more research is needed.
  • Decreases cholesterol levels – Lowers cholesterol levels, especially LDL cholesterol.
  • Pain reliever  –  Due to its ability to reduce inflammation, it automatically helps reduce joint and muscle pain.