The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Black Pepper
The Power of Herbs: Herbs and Spices

ORIGINS

This pungent spice comes from the pepper plant (Piper nigrum), which is native to south India but also grows in other parts of the world, particularly tropical regions. The small, unripe fruits of this plant are dried (peppercorns) and ground to make the spice found in household peppershakers.

HISTORY/LORE

Dubbed “black gold,” black pepper has been used in India for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians also used this spice. The Egyptian pharaoh Ramesses II (1301—1213 B.C.E.) was entombed with black peppercorns in his nostrils, most likely for preservation and to maintain the shape of his nose. His mummy is now on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

USES

Healing Uses: Black pepper has powerful digestive properties. The aroma and spicy flavor of black pepper trigger the stomach to produce hydrochloric acid, which is needed to digest protein, and they also stimulate the pancreas to produce important digestive enzymes. Piperine, the alkaloid that makes black pepper so pungent, has antioxidant qualities. In Western herbalism, black pepper is used in cold and flu remedies. In Ayurvedic medicine, black pepper is mixed with honey to treat respiratory congestion.

Magical Uses: Black pepper banishes negativity and protects against evil, and can also be used in exorcisms. It is useful for cleansing a previously occupied home for a new owner. Carry black pepper with you to banish feelings of jealousy and to protect yourself from the jealousy of others.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Black pepper is wonderful for relieving anxiety and stress. It encourages you to release those negative influences and find your inner source of power. Black pepper helps you “digest” unhealthy feelings toward yourself and others, while providing the courage and stamina needed to get through the process and move forward. Black pepper essential oil has various health benefits, such as supporting digestion and soothing sore muscles, and it can also be used in aromatherapy to boost energy.