India has been famous for her many and varied spices for many centuries. India exports most of its spices to different parts of the world. One such spice which is also known as the "king of spices "has been exported for many years. This "black gold of India" is black pepper . Kerala is the leading producer and exporter of black pepper followed by Karnataka. We Indians have a love for our spices. But WHY?
It's not because it imparts flavour but has many health benefits.
It has many pharmacological actions.
It stimulates the heart.
It improves the function of the kidneys by increasing the amount of urine excretion (diuresis ).
It improves the gastrointestinal functions.
It aids in digestion, reduces the formation of gases , improves appetite and increases the flow of bile .
It acts as a nerve tonic.
It induces sweating. Prescribed for fevers.
It is a respiratory stimulant and promotes the expulsion of the secretion in the bronchial tubes (expectoration). Prescribed for common cold , cough , asthma and bronchitis. A hot cup of milk with black pepper powder and sugar is effective relief against runny noses. Black pepper tea is also useful. It can also be taken with jaggery in the cold. It is also useful in blocked nose.
It has anti-inflammatory properties.
It is believed to have anti malaria and antitumor actions.
Black pepper is a preventive spice for cataract.
Black pepper has these pharmacological benefits because it contains an alkaloid 'chavicin'. It also has piperine , piperidin , volatile and fixed oils , starches, gums , and inorganic salts . It has a high chromium content.
Chromium is an essential trace element which plays an important role in the prevention of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It prevents the liver from many toxicities. It is preventive against the development of nerve disorders and against certain conditions which lead to mental confusion. It protects the cornea of the eyes against development of opacity giving rise to defective vision. It increases life span and improves fertility.
For its pharmacological actions black pepper is prescribed in Ayurveda for the prevention and treatment of heart diseases , kidney, joints, gastrointestinal, respiratory and skin diseases and for hair growth . It is also prescribed against malaria and as a general tonic. It is an antidote to the effects of arsenic poisoning.
It boosts the immunity and guards the lungs in air polluted areas.
(But it is complete no no for the people suffering from piles.)
So welcome to India, and enjoy the spicy black pepper in your chutney, sambhar , curries , namkeens and many more. .
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