Spices & Condiments
Black pepper
黑胡椒Nutritional Value
3 / 5
Organ Affinities
Tonifies
Therapeutic Properties
Quick Facts
AHM Properties
Black pepper is a strong warming agent for the middle burner. It disperses cold, gets Qi moving in the Stomach and intestines, and is especially helpful when digesting cold or heavy foods. It relieves abdominal pain and vomiting associated with cold patterns and adds warmth to Kidney Yang. Even a small amount in daily cooking can meaningfully improve food absorption for people with cold constitutions.
Piperine, the primary active compound in black pepper, inhibits NF-kB inflammatory signaling and has demonstrated analgesic activity in multiple studies; it also significantly enhances the bioavailability of curcumin and other anti-inflammatory compounds when combined with them.
Contraindications
Avoid in heat patterns, Yin deficiency with heat signs, bleeding conditions, or eye inflammation.
Clinically authored and reviewed by Dr. Katrina Chojnicki-Hill, DAOM, AP, Dipl. OM. Cross-referenced against American Dragon Herbs and classical AHM sources. For educational purposes only — consult a qualified AHM practitioner for personalised advice.