LONG PEPPER
HISTORY
Name: Long pepper, also known as Piper longum, is a spice that is native to India and Southeast Asia
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Long pepper has a spicy, pungent flavor that is similar to black pepper, but with a slightly sweeter and more complex taste. It is often used in spice blends and is a common ingredient in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine. Long pepper is also used in natural health supplements and is believed to have a number of health benefits, including supporting digestive health, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthy circulation.
ACTIVE COMPOUNDS
Long pepper (Piper longum) contains several active compounds, including piperine, piplartine, piperlongumine, and piperlonguminine. Piperine is the most extensively studied and is responsible for many of the biological activities of long pepper. It has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-arthritic properties. Piplartine has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, as well as potential anticancer activity. Piperlongumine and piperlonguminine are currently being investigated for their potential as anticancer agents.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Digestive health
Long pepper has been found to have gastro-protective properties and may help reduce symptoms of indigestion and improve gut health.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Long pepper contains compounds that have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis and asthma.
Respiratory health
​Some studies have suggested that long pepper may have beneficial effects on respiratory health, including reducing inflammation and improving lung function.
Blood sugar control
Some studies have suggested that long pepper may have blood sugar-lowering properties, which may be beneficial for people with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes.
Antioxidant properties
Long pepper has been found to have antioxidant properties, which may help protect the body against oxidative damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
CLINICAL STUDIES
Anti-inflammatory effects
A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in 2014 found that a combination of piperine and curcumin (the active compound in turmeric) had significant anti-inflammatory effects in people with osteoarthritis.
Digestive benefits
A study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine in 2016 found that long pepper extract improved digestive symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Weight loss
A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry in 2012 found that piperine may help prevent the formation of new fat cells, suggesting it could have potential as a weight loss aid.
Cognitive function
A study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine in 2013 found that a combination of long pepper and black pepper improved cognitive function in elderly adults.
