Black pepper (Piper nigrum) originates from India. It is a climbing, flowering vine that grows up to 32 feet (10 m) in height. The round fruit of the plant are the peppers which can grow up to 1/4 inch (6 mm) in diameter. The fruits (peppercorns) of Piper nigrum all start out green and unripe. Some are harvested at this point and treated or preserved in their green state to retain that color. If the fruit on the vine is allowed to ripen to maturity, it changes from green to a deep red color. Both the unripe green fruit and the ripe red fruit, when allowed to dry, turn black.
Black pepper essential oil is steam distilled from the dried, crushed berries of the plant and produces a clear to pale-green oil.
Black pepper essential oil has a high content of phytochemicals (natural, plant-based chemicals) known as monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. These phytochemicals are known for their antioxidant and immune stimulatory functions.
Uses of Black pepper oil:
The black pepper oil can be used as anti-rheumatic and anti-arthritic because of its property that can help to relieve the sore muscles and joints. It is also effective for reducing the uric acid in the body which is the most common cause of arthritis, rheumatism and gout.
It can also be effectively used for digestion. This oil can help to boost the digestive and immune system as well. It stimulates the digestive system starting from the salivary glands down to the large intestine. For the people who have an ulcer and having extreme acidity, this black pepper oil is good relief.
It is also an effective antispasmodic that gives good relief for muscle cramps, spasms and convulsions.
Black pepper oil is good as an antioxidant and antibacterial without having any side effects. It disinfects and protects food from any bacterial infections.
It has also several useful minerals and vitamins such as vitamin-A and vitamin-K that are good for the body.
