In the past, black pepper was a sacred culinary item for the Egyptians, Greeks and the Romans. It was even used in form of barter; some merchants, you'd be surprised, have traded it for gold. The aroma from this plant is usually sharp, dry and spicy. In its liquid form, black pepper contains many elements including Pinene, Limonene, Beta Bisabolene, Alpha Termineole, Camphene and Caryophyllene. It is rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals, and from the long list are Iron, Manganese, Calcium, Beta Carotene and Potassium. With this wide range of characteristics, there are many good reasons for regular intake of black pepper to improve health and well-being.

Aside from being one of the most popular and widely used spices, black pepper also has powerful anti-inflammatory components that are highly beneficial to human health. Plus, this spice is also rich in antioxidants according to studies. In this blog post, we will see the advantages black pepper has for the health.

A popular digestive aid, black pepper has been used for food because of its properties. It stimulates the digestive system, boosting one's appetite and promotes the secretion of digestive acids into the stomach. This condiment is safely used as a spice for those who are on a flavor diet or who are suffering from mouth ulcers, jaundice, or acidity. In addition, black pepper is a carminative, which facilitates the removal of gases and prevents further formation in the stomach. Its mild purgative properties help clean the intestines and heal any infection of the digestive system.

Black pepper has also been proven to be an effective relief in muscle pains, spasms and cramps. It is antirheumatic, which warms and stimulates the body and gives relief from arthritis and rheumatism, which is commonly felt during colder days. It is also able to remove toxins from the blood. People suffering from gout can benefit from this essential oil.

Because of the warm sensation it brings, black pepper oil also is a diuretic and diaphoretic. It cleanses the body by sweating and urination, effectively disinfecting the blood and skin. In return, one can benefit from lowered body pressure, less stress, and even reduced weight. Its warming properties are also helpful in reducing inflammation.

Another great factor of black pepper: it is antibacterial. It cures infections in the mouth, colon and even the urinary tract. It is also an antioxidant and delays the effects of aging, such as vision loss, skin wrinkles, and muscle degeneration.

Black pepper can be easily blended with your other essential oil favorites to give it a kick. It harmonizes well with juniper, rosemary, tea tree, frankincense, sage, clary and ylang ylang. When using this particular oil, make sure you dilute it properly. Avoid using when pregnant, or when suffering kidney or liver disease. Be careful in the application of this oil; do not place it near the eyes and nose as it may cause irritation, tearing and sneezing. Too much use may also irritate skin.

Safely stash your black pepper oil along with your other essential oil favorites with Soothing Terra’s collection of beautiful oil organizers! Visit the store and browse our many designs.