Black pepper, scientifically known as Piper nigrum, is a common spice used in cooking and has been valued for its medicinal properties for centuries. It is native to India and is now cultivated in various parts of the world. In addition to its culinary uses, black pepper is known for its potential health benefits. The active compound in black pepper, called piperine, has been found to possess various medicinal properties. It is believed to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Black pepper has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine as a digestive aid, helping to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and improve overall digestion.
Now a common companion with Black Pepper, both in cooking and sometimes magic, is Salt. A work to keep disliked people from visiting your home involves the act of throwing Salt and Black Pepper on the places they walked, especially the places where their feet touch around the door as they were exiting. You can also follow this work up by cleansing your space with your choice of burning herbs, and some traditions also recommend sprinkling the mixture around the home and sweeping it up with a broom to chase out their energy.
With Black Peppers power over us as one of the most traded spices in the world, it s no wonder why it still holds a place in our kitchens and our altars. For instance, everyone is seems to be talking about the health properties of turmeric as an anti-inflammatory, however unless you re combining your turmeric with black pepper, you probably won t see any benefit.
Black pepper has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine as a digestive aid, helping to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and improve overall digestion. It is also believed to have carminative properties, which can help relieve gas, bloating, and indigestion. Furthermore, black pepper is known for its potential anti-inflammatory effects.
The Magic Potential Of Peppercorns
I owe my ex-husband an apology. He loves black pepper and tops every savory dish placed in front of him with a substantial amount of ground of peppercorn. He said that, aside from the spice and flavor black pepper adds, he really liked the crunch of coarsely ground peppercorns.
It bothered me to no end that, before even tasting the dish that I had cooked, he was spicing it up with pepper. He rarely added salt. I even asked that he at least taste the dish before adding more seasoning. Eventually, it became the family joke and the pepper grinder lived next to his place at the dinner table. The reason I owe him an apology is because, as I was researching foods for the class I gave in Utah on eating with celiac disease, I came across compelling information about the health benefits of black pepper.
The hard science on the subject is slim and relates mostly to isolated molecules found in black pepper, rather than black pepper as a whole food. However, the tradition of using black pepper as a home remedy for a myriad of conditions is long standing. It’s noted for maladies including fever, congestion, arthritis, and stomach issues.
It is thought of as an antimicrobial agent, killing bacteria and fungi, that increases the bio-availability of certain foods. This means that black pepper can unlock certain nutrients, making it easier for our body to absorb them.
For instance, everyone is seems to be talking about the health properties of turmeric as an anti-inflammatory, however unless you’re combining your turmeric with black pepper, you probably won’t see any benefit. If you take a bottled turmeric preparation, read the label: most likely, black pepper will be on there.
One of the most surprising healing properties of black pepper is in reducing symptoms of heartburn and other stomach issues. Many of the drugs used to treat heartburn have been discovered to be problematic when used long term so I was thrilled to have a new way of approaching this condition.
Using a variation of a recipe from my favorite herb book, (Alchemy of Herbs by Rosalee De La Foret) I create little pepper bombs, offering them to everyone before a large meal, or to anyone who tends towards heartburn.
The recipe is simple — equal amounts of black pepper, long pepper (a type of black pepper) and dried ginger that are ground in my coffee grinder and then bound with just enough honey to hold the spices together. If you add too much honey and the spices won’t hold together simply add more of the spices until it is the consistency of bread dough.
I typically use one tablespoon of each of the spices and about a half to one tablespoon of honey, added a teaspoon at a time. Rolling these into little balls about the size of a pea, I then coat them in dried fennel powder. You can swallow these whole if you don’t like the flavor or chew them up before a hefty meal to prepare the stomach for what is to come!
My mother says they have the unfortunate appearance of something at the bottom of a rabbit hutch, which may be true. They are tasty, nonetheless. The effects of these little pepper balls have pleasantly surprised everyone who has partaken, and the antacids have been returned to the medicine cabinet.
A word of caution: since black pepper increases the bio-availability of certain substances, if you take prescription medications, please check with your doctor before increasing the amount of black pepper in your diet.
Note: The long pepper is a variety of pepper that with complex flavor unlike black peppercorns and can be ordered online.
Black pepper is known for its antimicrobial properties and is often used as a food preservative, when used in it’s botanical essential oil form it helps to cleanse surfaces of any harmful bacterias. It’s also been found in different studies to stimulate the senses and sharpen memory. It’s aromatherapeutic properties are powerful and instantly recognizable for its warm spicy aroma, our bodies love black pepper, so be sure to add it to more than just your food, use it to cleanse your home and body as well!
Studies have suggested that piperine may help reduce inflammation in the body by inhibiting certain inflammatory pathways. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis. In addition, black pepper has been found to have potential cancer-fighting properties. Some studies have shown that piperine may help inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells, although more research is needed to fully understand its effects. Black pepper also possesses antimicrobial properties, which can help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi. This may be beneficial for preventing infections and promoting overall immune health. Overall, black pepper is a versatile spice that not only adds flavor to dishes but also offers potential health benefits. However, it is important to note that its effects may vary depending on the individual and more research is needed to fully understand its medicinal properties..
Reviews for "Expanding your magical pantry: incorporating black peppercorn into your spell repertoire"
1. Anna - 1 star
I was extremely disappointed with "Black peopercorn magixal properties". The title itself felt offensive and racially insensitive. As a person of color, I expected a respectful and inclusive representation, but instead, I found a book that perpetuated harmful stereotypes. It was disheartening to see such a lack of cultural sensitivity and understanding. I would not recommend this book to anyone.
2. Mike - 2 stars
I had high hopes for "Black peopercorn magixal properties", but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The storyline lacked depth, and the characters felt one-dimensional. Additionally, the magical elements of the book were poorly developed and inconsistent. I felt like I was constantly trying to make sense of the world the author created. Overall, it failed to engage me as a reader, and I cannot say that I enjoyed it.
3. Lisa - 1 star
"Black peopercorn magixal properties" was a complete waste of my time. The writing was mediocre, and the plot felt recycled and unoriginal. I expected more creativity and depth from the author. The character development was shallow, and I found it hard to invest in their journey. I struggled to finish this book and would not recommend it to others.
4. John - 2 stars
I was intrigued by the concept of "Black peopercorn magixal properties", but unfortunately, it didn't deliver. The pacing of the story was inconsistent, with slow moments followed by rushed and confusing sequences. The overall structure of the book felt disjointed, making it difficult to fully immerse myself in the narrative. While it had potential, the execution fell short, leaving me unsatisfied as a reader.