Turmeric, which derives from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, has a wide array of benefits for health. Also known as golden spice, this tall plant usually comes from Asia and Central America. The yellow color in curries and mustard results from adding turmeric to them. Moreover, the usage of turmeric in Indian medicine to treat several diseases dates back thousands of years ago. This vibrant colored spice, when mixed with black pepper, creates a terrific combination to provide numerous health benefits. Let’s have a look at some of them. 

What Are The Key Ingredients In Turmeric?

The treasure of these spices lies in the key active ingredients of turmeric and black pepper. From anti-inflammatory to antioxidant properties, the active ingredients contribute to their goodness. Moreover, research proved that black pepper and turmeric could impart health benefits. 

Curcumin: Turmeric’s Active Ingredient 

Curcumin gives turmeric the yellow color as it is the most active compound of the spice. Curcumin is a polyphenol with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Unfortunately, although it provides various benefits, the body still cannot absorb curcumin properly.  

Piperine: Black Pepper’s active ingredient 

Piperine is a bioactive compound and an alkaloid found in black pepper. Research shows that this active ingredient can help with nausea, poor digestion, and headaches with promising results. Alongside, it contains anti-inflammatory properties as well. However, the most valuable benefit of Piperine is that it can remarkably boost the consumption power of curcumin in the body.  

How Does Piperine Boost The Benefits Of Curcumin?

As we mentioned, curcumin does not naturally get absorbed in the bloodstream. Since curcumin in turmeric is the active ingredient with the most advantages, your body cannot fully avail of its benefits. Therefore, the body is not utilizing curcumin to its full potential. Here is when black pepper takes charge and solves the problem. Several studies conclude that mixing Piperine with curcumin can boost curcumin absorption by 2000%. 

Moreover, research shows that combining 20 mg of Piperine and 2 g of curcumin can reasonably increase the absorption of the ingredient. Out of all the explanations of why this happens, science backs two notions. Firstly, Piperine in black pepper allows the curcumin to pass effortlessly through the intestinal wall and then into your bloodstream. The other theory states that Piperine can slow the breakdown of curcumin by the liver, which results in increased blood levels. Whatever the belief may be, this combination is beneficial for the body.  

What Are The Health Benefits Of Curcumin?

You may already be aware of the respective health benefits of black pepper and turmeric. Let’s look at some advantages when the spices are combined. 

Combats Inflammation 

Curcumin in turmeric has exceptional anti-inflammatory properties. According to some studies, the properties are so strong that they compare to the power of anti-inflammatory drugs. Plus, there are no side effects of curcumin, unlike the drugs. The research defines how turmeric may treat arthritis. It is a disease where joint inflammation and pain are the points of concern. There may be relief in pain and temporary aid in the joints with curcumin. Not only this, but Piperine has anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritis properties as well. Moreover, it helps in desensitizing a pain receptor that can cause relief in discomfort. 

Helps in Digestion 

Studies back the fact that turmeric can aid in digestion. It reduces gut spasms as well as flatulence which helps in better digestion. On the other hand, Piperine boosts the movement of digestive enzymes present in the gut. It results in food processing more efficiently and rapidly in the body. Furthermore, since turmeric and black pepper contain anti-inflammatory properties, they may significantly reduce gut inflammation and improve digestion. For thousands of years, Indian medicine has used turmeric to treat digestion. 

May Prevent Cancer 

Studies demonstrate that curcumin is valuable in treating and preventing cancer. According to certain test-tube studies, this ingredient can reduce cancer growth and the development of cells at molecular levels. Moreover, it may even destroy the cancer cells in the body. When it comes to Piperine, it effectively eliminates the cancer cells and minimizes the risks of tumor formation. Not only this, but research exhibits that it may restrict the growth of cancer cells too. Curcumin and Piperine have defensive effects individually and in combination against cancers like prostate, pancreatic, and breast cancer.

Consumption and dosage

General studies show that curcumin and Piperine are safe for consumption. However, there are no recommendations for these ingredients either. The maximum consumption of curcumin and Piperine is not known as well. Nausea, headache, and skin rashes are common side effects that you may experience after absorbing curcumin in large quantities. Dosage suggestions are therefore vital before consuming any ingredient. Black pepper and turmeric are common ingredients in Indian households that people add to tea, drinks, and most food items. For medical benefits, the consumption of the supplement according to the recommended dosage is the best. 

Final Words 

While each of the spices has its benefits, combine them to enjoy all their benefits. With no side effects of concern, adding turmeric and black pepper to your food or drink is fine. Consult a doctor before taking any supplements.