The Surprising Health Benefits of Peppercorn

Peppercorn does not look much but this tiny spice actually packs quite the nutritional punch! Packed with antioxidants, this kitchen staple is also loaded with nutrients that keep the skin and gut healthy. In today’s post, we are listing down the surprising health and nutritional benefits of this beloved spice:

Promotes Weight Loss

One of the most often-overlooked benefits of peppercorn is it induces weight loss. The blackened, outer covering of the spice contains a chemical that accelerates the breakdown of fat cells. When the fat cells are broken down, the body is able to convert it into energy. Peppercorn is proven effective in putting the body in the thermogenesis state. As the body burns off fatty deposits, you slim down.

Vitiligo Treatment

Studies show that peppercorn may be an effective treatment for vitiligo. Vitiligo is a progressive skin condition wherein the skin inexplicably loses its pigment. Although vitiligo is an incurable disease, peppercorn may help slow down its progression. The piperine in peppercorn works by stimulating the skin to produce more pigment. Until piperine was discovered, treatment for vitiligo includes chemicals and ultraviolet light therapy. Initial lab tests show peppercorn is also less harsh to the skin than ultraviolet light therapy.

Boosts Respiratory Health

Peppercorn is used in Ayurvedic medicine as a treatment for viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. The spice is an additive to tonics that treat colds, cough, and flu. It also provides temporary relief for sinusitis, nasal congestion, and other respiratory ailments. Chemicals in peppercorn help break down viscous phlegm and mucus in the respiratory tract. These chemicals also soothe irritation and induce coughing to expel phlegm.

Improves Cardiovascular Health

Apart from boosting respiratory health, peppercorn also improves cardiovascular health. Eating cholesterol-laden foods causes fatty deposits within the arteries. These blockages harden the arteries and cause heart attacks and strokes. Peppercorn contains chemicals that remove these fatty plaques within the arteries! Adding peppercorn to a high fiber meal helps keep the entire cardiovascular system healthy.

Packed with Antioxidants

Antioxidants are nutrients that protect the cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is caused by destructive ions called free radicals. These ions zero in on healthy cells, causing mutation and cell breakdown. Studies show that oxidative stress is the precursor to chronic diseases including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

A diet spiked with peppercorn gives healthy cells a fighting chance against free radicals. The antioxidants in peppercorn create a protective barrier over every cell. The barrier neutralizes the effects of oxidative stress. Initial tests show that peppercorn helps reduce cell mutation and DNA damage caused by free radicals. Consuming peppercorn regularly is an effective way to safeguard the body from degenerative diseases.

Boosts Nutrient Absorption

When the body is working at its peak, it is able to fully absorb all the nutrients derived from the food you eat. Peppercorn contains chemicals that enhance the bioavailability. Adding freshly ground peppercorn to everyday dishes does more than just add a hint of flavor. It also aids in the proper absorption of nutrients!