black pepper extract

Black pepper extract is a concentrated preparation derived from the dried fruit of the Piper nigrum plant. Its primary active component is piperine, an alkaloid responsible for its pungent taste and most of its pharmacological effects. Black pepper extract is widely used as a dietary supplement and in traditional medicine. It is promoted for enhancing nutrient absorption (notably increasing bioavailability of compounds like curcumin and certain vitamins), supporting digestive health by stimulating hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach, acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, improving cognitive function, aiding weight management, supporting cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure control, modulating glucose metabolism (antidiabetic effect), providing antimicrobial activity against various pathogens, and potentially exhibiting antitumor properties[1][2][3][4][5][7]. The mechanism underlying many of these effects involves inhibition of hepatic and intestinal drug-metabolizing enzymes such as CYP3A4 and UDP-glucuronyl transferase[1][4], which can increase the bioavailability of both nutrients and drugs. Black pepper extract is also used industrially in pharmaceuticals for painkillers or medicines targeting gastrointestinal discomfort[8]. There are no standardized dosing guidelines; supplements typically contain 5–10 mg piperine per serving when combined with other ingredients like turmeric[1][2].

Brand names

BioPerine

Other names

Piper nigrum extractpiperineblack pepperPiper nigrumPiperaceae