Why are Turmeric and black pepper such a dynamic duo?
Turmeric is a yellow spice that has provided numerous health benefits for millennia and counting. Curcumin, a chemical property found in turmeric, is shown to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. However, curcumin itself has difficulty absorbing into the bloodstream. This is combated with the help of piperine, a chemical found in black pepper. Studies show that combining the piperine in black pepper with the curcumin in turmeric enhances curcumin absorption by up to 2,000%.
Here’s a list of benefits that both turmeric and black pepper can provide — and even boost its effects:
- Fights Pain and Inflammation: Curcumin itself is so potent that some studies have shown it to match the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs, without the negative side effects. Piperine has anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties as well and helps to desensitize a specific pain receptor in your body, further reducing feelings of discomfort. When combined, curcumin and piperine are a powerful inflammation-fighting duo that can help reduce discomfort and pain.
- May Help Prevent Cancer: Lab studies suggest that cucumin has the ability to decrease cancer growth, development, and spread at the molecular level, while also contributing to the death of cancerous cells. Piperine studies have shown a decrease in tumor formation, thus inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells. Combining these efforts together is extremely beneficial for not only treating, but also preventing cancer.
- Promotes Digestion: Curcumin has been used for digestion purposes because of its ability to reduce gut spasms and flatulence. Piperine has been shown to enhance digestive enzymes in the gut, helping your body process food quicker and easier. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of both turmeric and piperine aids in reducing gut inflammation, helping promote a healthier digestive system.
How to Use Turmeric and Black Pepper
While turmeric and black pepper are highly effective in treating health issues, a little goes a long way and it should be consumed in small quantities. This dynamic duo can be added to various foods, drinks, and smoothies. It can also be sprinkled on salad, rice, meat, or scrambled eggs. A popular way to integrate both turmeric and black pepper into a diet is through turmeric paste. This can be consumed once a day by mixing into a glass of milk, and you can also take it a step further and make “golden milk”. This helps in promoting good gut health and lowering your risk of disease!
