By Ujjainee Roy
March 13, 2024
Don't sleep on peppercorns! They are derived from the fruit of the Piper nigrum vine, and is one of the oldest spices in the world. Its distinctive flavour and aroma have made it a staple in cuisines across the globe. Its potent heat aside, it also has many health benefits. Let's explore some of them.
Peppercorn contains potent antioxidants such as piperine, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
Piperine in peppercorn stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, aiding in the breakdown of food and promoting efficient digestion. It also helps alleviate digestive discomforts like bloating and gas.
Peppercorn exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, attributed to compounds like piperine. Regular consumption may help reduce inflammation in the body, and also offer relief from conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Piperine in peppercorn has been found to enhance the absorption of nutrients such as vitamins A and C, selenium, and beta-carotene. This property can maximize the nutritional benefits derived from other foods in your diet.
Peppercorn may help you stay in shape by increasing metabolism and promoting fat breakdown. Piperine has been shown to inhibit the formation of new fat cells, potentially assisting in weight loss efforts when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
The expectorant properties of peppercorn make it beneficial for respiratory health. It can help alleviate symptoms of respiratory infections by promoting the expulsion of mucus and clearing congestion in the airways.
Piperine in peppercorn has been linked to improved cognitive function and may help protect against age-related cognitive decline. It exerts neuroprotective effects and enhances the activity of neurotransmitters involved in learning and memory.