Therapeutic herb
Black Pepper
Piperine is the bioavailability multiplier — pair with turmeric/curcumin to multiply absorption by 20×.
Active compounds
- piperine
Recommended daily intake
Pinch (1/4 tsp) per meal
Best cooking method
Freshly cracked into hot dishes near end of cook
Flavor profile
Sharp, pungent, slightly citrus
Conditions this herb supports
Pairs with these cuisines
Synergies — combine with
turmeric boosts inflammation
Piperine in black pepper increases curcumin bioavailability by ~2000% — single biggest absorption multiplier known.
Safety + contraindications
GERD — avoid in active reflux flares. Phenytoin interaction.
This information is educational, not medical advice. Consult a qualified clinician before therapeutic-dose use, especially during pregnancy, lactation, or when on prescription medication.
Scientific research
Peer-reviewed studies cited from NIH PubMed. Click any PMID to read the abstract.
- RCT1998
Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers
Shoba G, Joy D, Joseph T, et al.
Piperine 20mg increases curcumin bioavailability by 2000% in human volunteers.
PubMed PMID: 9619120 - review2014
A Review on Therapeutic Potential of Piperine: An Active Component of Black Pepper
Damanhouri ZA, Ahmad A
Piperine documented as bioavailability enhancer for curcumin, beta-carotene, and several drug compounds.
PubMed PMID: 26621385
Studies summarized for plain-English understanding. Read the full abstract on PubMed for methodology, sample size, and limitations.