Black Pepper- The Mistress of Spices

Even though black pepper may be a common spice, it is referred to as the ‘Mistress of Spices’ often because of the stupendous amount of benefits it offers. In the past, this spice was so important that it was used as a currency to facilitate barter system. Black pepper was also used as a sacrifice to the Gods.

These humble gnarled black roundels are actually the seeds of the pepper plant. While the fruit of the same is edible, the plant is more popular for its seeds. Piperine, a compound that is found in the fruit and the seed of the pepper plant is responsible for imparting heat or spiciness to black pepper.

Pepper is a rich source of

• Dietary fiber
• Iron and
• Manganese

(Mostly used for spicing up dishes which are considered to be a tad bland.)

Helps in Digestion

One of the top benefits offered by these glossy black seeds is that they aid in digestion. Since black pepper stimulates the taste buds on the human tongue, the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach is boosted in the process and helps in digesting the food better. By ensuring that there is ample secretion of HCL, pepper keeps annoying health problems like indigestion and heartburn at bay.

Protects Cellular Damage

Black pepper contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thereby protecting the human body from cellular damage by free radicals.

Did you know that this Mistress of Spices can help in delaying the adverse effects of aging and help promote youthful looks?

Individuals suffering from health problems like arthritis and rheumatism should consume more of black pepper in order to gain relief from the pain associated with such health conditions. This is because the spice gets rid of uric acid in the body, which is the main culprit for joint pain. Not only this, black pepper also provides a stimulating effect and increases blood circulation in the body.

It contains vitamins A, C and K. Apart from these, the spice also contains sufficient quantity of important minerals like Zinc, Iron and Manganese.

And Finally,

A little pepper can go a long way - just a pinch of pepper and salt in warm water can fight oral problems like toothaches, foul breath, mouth ulcers and bleeding gums. So, don’t be afraid to be generous with this mistress of spices in your diet.