#BlackPepper

A recent article by Kelsey Kunik, RDN, emphasizes the numerous health advantages of integrating black pepper into daily meals, highlighting its active compound, piperine, as a key ingredient that contributes to several health benefits. Known as the “king of spices,” black pepper is celebrated for more than just its flavor-enhancing properties—it may play a vital role in supporting various aspects of health, from cholesterol management to inflammation reduction.

Research has shown that piperine, found in black pepper, can significantly improve cardiovascular health by boosting high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. This dual action is crucial for maintaining heart health and preventing atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Moreover, when combined with certain foods like green tea and cinnamon, black pepper may amplify their cholesterol-lowering effects.

In kitchens across Thailand, black pepper is a ubiquitous spice that adds warmth and depth to a multitude of dishes. However, recent research highlights that its benefits extend beyond its culinary appeal. Regular consumption of black pepper, often overlooked, is linked to a host of health benefits, a revelation that’s gradually garnering attention in the scientific and health communities.

Black pepper’s allure lies not in its energy or macronutrient content—there’s little to show there—but rather in its richness in antioxidants and piperine, a powerful plant compound. The compound has been associated with significant health improvements, including better cholesterol levels, reduced inflammation, blood sugar regulation, and improved digestion.

For centuries, black pepper—known in Thai as ‘พริกไทยดำ’ (phrik thai dam)—has captivated not just the kitchen but also traditional medicine cabinets across Thailand and the world. Revered as the “king of spices,” this small, spiky fruit, obtained from the dried, nearly ripe berries of the Piper nigrum L. vine, is far more than a mere culinary delight. Thai wisdom has long prized black pepper’s health benefits, and recently, modern clinical research is beginning to catch up, exploring the complex chemistry and validating some claims that have accompanied the spice’s use for generations.