Black Pepper

Piper nigrum

Part used: seed

Nutrient content:

• potassium
• calcium
• zinc
• manganese
• iron
• magnesium
• pyridoxine
• riboflavin
• thiamin
• niacin
• vitamin C
• vitamin A
• lycopene

Benefits:

• effective against parasites
• antibacterial
• anti-inflammatory
• antioxidant
• can be a mild laxative
• aids in digestion
• circulatory stimulant
• helps to clear mucus from the lungs
• increases circulation in the skin
• relieves gas, indigestion, upset stomach, and stomach cramps
• has been used as an antiseptic for tooth decay and gum swelling

Cautions and side effects:

• excessive amounts can cause bleeding to ulcers

Sources and additional information:
McBride, Kami. Herbal Kitchen. San Francisco: Conari Press. 2010. Print.
http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/black_pepper.html