Pepper: Benefits, Uses, and Contraindications

Il pepper It is a spice that includes 700 tropical species of plants of the genus PiperIts use dates back many centuries: there are traces of it in prehistory, when it was cultivated along the Malabar coast in India, the present-day state of Kerala. Pepper, native to the remote lands of southern India, is a spice that has spanned millennia of history and culture. This extraordinary plant, belonging to the Piperaceae family, has been known since ancient times, but its use was far removed from culinary use. In ancient times, its medicinal properties made it a sort of healing elixirThe first pepper crops were identified on the Malabar coast, where this spice became a sort of currency for trade, earning the nickname "black gold." The pepper plant is a climbing shrub boasting leaves of various shapes, from oval to orbicular, and produces small flowers that develop on considerable long spikes, sometimes exceeding ten centimeters. Each spike can contain up to forty fruits, small green berries that, when ripe, turn a characteristic red-brown color and have a thin pericarp. At the center of each fruit is the pepper seed, the round, compact grain that constitutes the essence of this spice. precious spice, known for its intense and aromatic flavour.

Index of topics

Nutritional values

Let's see together what the nutritional values of pepper are, which in 100 grams contain approximately 296 calories:

11 g of water
protein
26 g of fiber
2 g of lipids
68 g of carbohydrates
265 mg of Calcium
90 mg of Magnesium
14 mg of Iron
176 mg of Phosphorus
5 mg sodium
73 mg of Potassium
21 mg of vitamin C1
13 mg of Zinc
0,02 mg Thiamine (vitamin B1)
0,12 mg Riboflavin (vitamin B2)
0, 10 mg of Vitamin B6
0,21 mg Niacin (vitamin B3 or vitamin PP)
10 µg of vitamin B9 or folic acid

Types of pepper

Let's see what the most well-known types of pepper are:

Il black pepper It represents the most widespread variety of this spice. To obtain black pepper, the grains are harvested and then subjected to a complete oxidation process, thus taking on their characteristic black hue. The plants that produce black pepper grow in various parts of the world, from the regions of Sarawak in Malaysia to Lampong in Indonesia, from Madagascar to Talamanca, Ecuador. This type of pepper is generally known for its intense flavor and spicy, ideal to accompany red meat dishes and cuisines with robust flavours.
Il green pepper, on the contrary, is a more delicate variety than black pepper, with an aromatic profile characterized by light fruity notes. This type of pepper is obtained from the fruits harvested while still unripe, which are then left to dry. Green pepper pairs beautifully with dishes based on white meat, fish and vegetables.
Il white pepper It is a type of aromatic pepper, obtained from the fruits of the same plants that produce black pepper. White pepper is obtained by removing the outer husk of the black peppercorn. White pepper is often used in the preparation of sauces but can also be used to flavor fish, soups and breath.
Il pink pepperUnlike other varieties, pink pepper is not actually a true pepper, but is obtained from the dried fruit of a shrub called Schinus molle, which is native to South America. It is notable for its softness, not requiring grinding. Thanks to its sweetness, pink pepper goes well with cheese risottos, salads and fish dishes.

Benefits

Let's see together what the benefits of pepper are:

La piperine present in black pepper helps stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, thus improving digestion and preventing gastrointestinal disorders.
Black pepper contains compounds antioxidants which help fight the damage caused by free radicals in the body, promoting overall health.
It appears that piperine may have effects anti-inflammatories, potentially useful for alleviating inflammation-related conditions such asarthritis.
Some preliminary studies suggest that piperine, with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, may lead to a reduction in the risk of some forms of cancer. cancer.
Black pepper is often used in combination with other foods or spices to increase the absorption of essential nutrients, such as curcumin in turmeric.
Some studies have suggested that piperine may help control the body weight through its effect on fat metabolism and digestion.
Several preliminary studies indicate that black pepper may play a role in brain protection and in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.

Pepper and phytotherapy

Black pepper is used in the creation of herbal preparations aimed at soothing common ailments. Among these formulations, the use of decoction stands out, an ancient preparation used both as a digestive both as a stimulant aphrodisiacThe preparation of the black pepper decoction is done by boiling 10 mg of pepper in 100 ml of waterHowever, it's rare for the decoction to be made exclusively with pepper; typically, expert herbalists mix a combination of specially selected herbs. This mixture is commonly available in herbalist shops, usually in 100-gram glass bottles, enough to prepare up to ten liters of decoction. The typical proportion involves adding 10 grams of black pepper to 100 milliliters of water, which is boiled for about 15 minutes. This decoction is known for its digestive properties, expectorant, and metabolism booster. To combat coughWhite and black pepper remedies have proven effective. The former consists of a mixture of a pinch of white pepper and a teaspoon of honey, while the latter includes two grams of black pepper powder, dried ginger, and long pepper, all mixed in equal parts.

Use in the kitchen

Pasta with red onion, walnuts and black pepperA quick and delicious recipe. Served with long or short pasta, this dish, with its delicious red onion, gets a spicy kick from the black pepper. Also try with lentil macaroni, which is high in protein.
Bresaola and courgette carpaccioA tasty idea for a super-quick dish. A super-fresh main course, perfect for the office or a picnic. Before layering the bresaola, the zucchini are dipped in aromatic lemon oil, to which purple salt, freshly ground green and pink peppercorns, and coriander seeds are added.
Fennel and Orange SaladA Sicilian specialty. A simple, light, and healthy dish from Sicily. You can add black olives, walnuts, raw spinach, radicchio, and anything else you like. A final sprinkle of pepper adds a bold, unmissable touch.
Chard pie with pepper and chili pepperThe recipe is ready in an hour. The shortcrust pastry and chard are the stars of the show. Chili pepper and pepper make the chard even more delicious, along with the cream and tomato paste.
Agretti with eggs, pepper and chilli pepperA light, fresh dish. Sauté the agretti in a pan, adding pepper and chili pepper. Then, roll them into a nest shape, placing an egg in the center. Finally, bake the nest, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and chili pepper.

Pepper in cosmetics

Pepper is also a surprising ingredient in cosmetics, thanks to its potential beneficial properties. Here's how pepper can be used in cosmetic products:

To fight theacneYou can make this mask using 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, the foam of one egg white, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to create a paste and apply it to your face for 15-20 minutes. Then, rinse thoroughly.
Excellentexfoliating based on black pepper and yogurt, composed of black pepper and yogurt, ideal for purifying, hydrating and brighten the skin, especially if you have blemishes and scars. Take 1 tablespoon of black pepper and 2 tablespoons of yogurt, and mix these two ingredients thoroughly until you obtain a smooth paste. Finally, apply the paste to clean skin, massaging it gently with circular motions. Finally, rinse thoroughly with cold water.
The anti-cellulite oil with black pepper is very useful and can be prepared with 2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil or seed oil and 4 drops of black pepper essential oil. Carefully mix all the ingredients until smooth, then gently massage onto problem areas twice a day, preferably after showering.
Il pilling Black pepper and honey face and body scrub helps exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and improving its radiance. Mix 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon honey, and a little olive oil. Apply the mixture to damp skin using circular motions, then rinse well.
Il black pepper tonic For the scalp, mix a few drops of black pepper essential oil with coconut oil or jojoba oil. Massage this tonic into the scalp to stimulate circulation and improve hair health.
With a pinch of ground pink pepper, mixed with shea butter and coconut oil, makes a lip balm that helps keep lips soft and hydrated.

How to Make an Anti-Wrinkle Mask with Black Pepper and Honey

An anti-wrinkle mask Made with black pepper and honey, this antioxidant-rich mask can be easily prepared at home to help improve the appearance of your skin and reduce the signs of aging.

Get 1 teaspoon of black pepper powder and 2 teaspoons of natural honey
In a small bowl, mix the teaspoon of black pepper powder with the two teaspoons of honey until you get a smooth paste.
Before applying the mask, make sure your face is clean and dry.
Using clean fingers or a makeup brush, apply the mask evenly to your face, avoiding the area around your eyes and lips. Black pepper may cause a normal warming or tingling sensation on your skin. leather; however, if you experience excessive discomfort, remove the mask immediately;
Leave the black pepper and honey anti-wrinkle mask on your skin for about 15 minutes.
After the application time, the face should be rinsed with warm water, removing the mask completely so that no residue remains.
Finally, it is necessary to apply a light moisturizer, specifically for the face, to keep the skin hydrated after the treatment.
Anyone with sensitive or problematic skin should always consult a dermatologist before using this or any other homemade mask.

How much pepper can you eat per day?

In general, it is advisable to use pepper in moderation, up to a maximum of 5 mg per day, to avoid excessively spicy sensations. Pepper, as mentioned, can have some health benefits when consumed in moderation, but excess can cause irritation. It's always advisable to adjust the amount of pepper to your personal preferences and needs, trying to maintain a balanced diet for a healthy diet.

Controindicazioni

Black pepper is a spice known for its potential irritation to mucous membranes, so it is advisable to avoid or limit its use, especially if you suffer from conditions such as ulcers, gastritis o hemorrhoidsUnder these circumstances, if you still want to consume pepper, it's prudent to do so in small amounts and sporadically. Furthermore, people with hypertension should exercise caution, as pepper contains sodium. Black pepper may not be suitable for children and the elderly. If you're taking medications and want to regularly include pepper in your diet, it's always advisable to consult your doctor to determine potential interactions with your medications and receive personalized advice.