Black Pepper
A pinch of black pepper is added to almost every type of recipe imaginable. Once used as currency and presented to the "gods" as a sacred offering, it is fortunate that this most popular of spices is available throughout the year.
Black pepper comes from the pepper plant, a smooth woody vine that can grow up to 33 feet in hot and humid tropical climates. They begin to bear small white clustered flowers after 3 to 4 years and develop into berries known as peppercorns. Ground peppercorns produce the spice we call pepper.
Black Pepper is the foremost detoxifier and anti-aging herb in Asia.
A warming digestive remedy, black pepper relieves gas and increases absorption of other nutrients.
Increasing circulation, regulating blood pressure and easing joint movement, black pepper is also antioxidant, reducing free radicals.
Black Pepper prevents the destruction of vitamin A and other antioxidants. Black pepper is an excellent source of manganese, a very good source of iron and vitamin K, and a good source of dietary fiber.
Black Pepper reduces respiratory mucus, easing sinus congestion. As a diuretic, it balances water in the body and regulates eye pressure.
See also: All You Ever Needed or Wanted to Know About Pepper eBook (It's free!)
