Black pepper essential oil | Piper nigrum

Traditional use: Black pepper is sometimes called the king of spices due to its rich tradition of use in many cultures around the world as well as its immense popularity. The first records of its unique, spicy flavor come from India and date back to around 4,000 BC. While pepper excels in the culinary arts, it is worth noting that it is also quite important in natural medicine. The essential oil obtained from pepper seeds is often used in aromatherapy due to its numerous health-promoting properties and a spicy, refreshing aroma. The traditional use of this oil revolves around its warming effect. As a massage additive, it improves blood circulation, promotes proper heart function, but also relieves muscle and joint pain. In addition, it strengthens the immune system due to its strong antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, it shows beneficial influence on the nervous system. Since it has a stimulating effect, also in the intellectual sphere, it helps to increase concentration and maintain clarity of thinking. Interestingly, some people use it as a support for anti-smoking therapy, as it has been noted that the oil eases the symptoms associated with giving up smoking, and in addition, can reduce the desire to reach for a cigarette. People struggling with stomach ailments value pepper essential oil especially for its beneficial effect on digestion. It facilitates the absorption of nutrients, but also counteracts bloating and constipation.

Occurrence: Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is a perennial climbing, vine-like plant from the pepper family (Piperaceae). It grows to a height of about 15 meters, while its woody stems reach a length of 7 meters and have many interconnected aerial roots. Pepper leaves are egg-shaped and sharply pointed. The flowers are gathered in spike-shaped inflorescences and are light green in color. Its round fruits have been used as a spice for centuries.

Pepper is native to southeastern India. Today, it is also grown in many countries with a tropical climate where hot and humid conditions prevail, including Malaysia, New Guinea, as well as South Africa and Brazil.

Biochemistry: Black pepper essential oil contains many substances responsible for its intense aroma, the most important of which are sesquiterpenes and monoterpenes, especially trans-caryophyllene. In addition to it, the oil also contains: limonene, beta-pinene, 3-carene and alpha-pinene.

The oil available in our offer is extracted by steam distillation from dried pepper seeds, which originate in India. Thanks to this procedure, each drop contains an optimal concentration of active ingredients and a unique combination of aromas unique to this plant.

Fun fact: Pepper has been one of the most popular spices used in culinary arts around the world. Although today it is readily available and cheap, in ancient times its price was much higher. In those days, peppercorns were used as a means of payment in exchange with merchants.