==The benefits of Black Pepper are==
Piperine is an alkaloid found in black pepper. The health benefits of piperine may be less popular when compared A very common aroma molecule or terpene, called beta-caryophyllene (BCP), found in plant essential oils and abundantly present in black pepper, has been discovered to its culinary use but there are several health benefits of piperine that are worth mentioning. Listed below are some of the health benefits of piperine that may be helpful for youfunction as a cannabinoid.
*Peppercorns actually have antimicrobial properties and have the ability to increase blood circulation which is important when warding off viruses. In India, they combine black pepper and tamarind, boil them with water and butter and ingesting the concoction to help relieve the symptoms of colds and flu. Another way is by mixing lemon juice, honey and black pepper and taking the mixture three times a day for one day to help starve cold.
* weight loss : The property of piperine that makes it useful for weight loss is its ability to increase thermogenic activity. Thermogenesis is the process of generating cellular energy in cells and this effectively promotes an increase in the metabolic rate of the body. However, further studies are needed to be able to say that piperine itself is a weight loss aid.
*enhances absorption of nutrients : Another of the health benefits of piperine is its ability to promote bio-availability of nutrients like beta-carotene, vitamin B6, amino acids, selenium, glucose, and curcumin.
*inflammation : Piperine is also known to be of value in diseases where inflammation is involved like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. This also makes it a good pain reliever. Similar to other plant-based cannabinoids, BCP binds with the CB2 receptors, giving it the therapeutic effect of reducing inflammation. Various research has suggested that BCP could be used for the treatment of arthritis and osteoporosis, and may potentially increase the effectiveness of certain anti-cancer drugs.
*Cancer : There is conflicting evidence about their role in cancer. Some evidence suggests pepper might protect against colon cancer, but other evidence suggests it might promote liver cancer. In studies conducted on mice, piperine showed a positive effect on lung cancer by producing a significant decline in the formation of tumor nodules. The University of Michigan Cancer Center has done a study that shows that pepper can help keep breast cancer away. A chemical compound called [[piperine]] is found in the peppercorns and can help prevent a tumor from forming. The potential of this is heightened when combined with [[turmeric]].
*mood enhancer : Piperine is also known to improve production of serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that enhances ones mood and also relieves pain. Piperine is an alkaloid, making it harmful, as well as useful to the health. When taken in the right amount, piperine will give you all the health benefits it has to offer. However, caution should be taken as no RDA or recommended daily allowance is given for piperine. Pregnant women and mursing mothers as well as those with underlying medical conditions should first consult a doctor before starting any supplements with piperine.
* Aromatherapy : Aching muscles, arthritis, chilblains, constipation, muscle cramps, poor circulation, sluggish digestion.
==References==
''* Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995), 56-64.''