Black Pepper Essential Oil

Black Pepper Essential Oil comes from the plant Piper nigrum or black pepper. Black pepper is a famous spice in many cuisines due to the flavor and aroma it gives to food. In addition, it is used as a preservative due to its antioxidative property. Because black pepper is widely traded around the world and included in many recipes, it is named as the “king of spices”. Peppercorns, or dried black pepper fruits, are usually crushed to powder form, called pepper, to be able to use it in cooking.

Aside from its uses in cooking, black pepper has been used for diet plans and medicine up until now. Utilizing its concentrated essential oil is a good way to gain its benefits.

It contains numerous compounds which give it its characteristic woody smell and clear look. Major components of the oil include β-caryophylline (29.9%), limonene (13.2%), β-pinene (7.9%), and sabinene (5.9%). It is used as a rubefacient, stimulant, and counterirritant, being able to soothe body aches because of the warm sensation it creates.

It is also antibacterial and antifungal, which is why it is used to treat coughs, colds, and fungal skin diseases. If not treating any disease, it can be included in meals to increase metabolism thereby breaking down fats and energizing the body; hence, it is a good addition to many meals.

Black Pepper Essential Oil Benefits

Some benefits of the essential oil include:

  • Soothes the mind
  • Invigorates the body
  • Improves metabolism
  • Reduces pain
  • Provides antioxidants
  • Reduces fever
  • Alleviates skin problems
  • Mitigates breathing difficulties
  • Removes parasites in the digestive tract
  • Relieves toothaches

The components of the oil are said to contain antioxidative properties, according to a study in 2009. The oil was tested in comparison to BHA, BHT, and PG which are synthetic oils used in the industry and the test shows that the essential oil performed well in the majority of the parameters considered.

In addition, a study in 2004 showed that the oil has anti-fungal properties as well. The oil was able to prevent the growth of Fusarium graminearum, Aspergillus ochraceus, and Penicillium viridicatum; on the other hand, it partially impeded the growth of other fungi species. More studies are done to discover the potential of the oil.

Black Pepper Essential Oil Uses

  1. Black Pepper Essential Oil as Stress Reliever. It is used in aromatherapy as an aromatherapy oil. The vapors of the pure oil can be irritating to the nose, but using a small amount and diffusing it can release the tension brought about by busy days.
  2. Black Pepper Essential Oil as Stimulant. It can be used to arouse one’s mood by stimulating blood circulation so that waste products from cells are quickly removed. Both rubbing it on the skin or smelling its vapor can achieve this.
  3. Black Pepper Essential Oil to Burn Fats. It can help increase metabolism by promoting blood circulation and absorption of nutrients. It can be added in health drinks in small amounts, good for those who want to lose weight or change lifestyle.
  4. Black Pepper Essential Oil as Pain Reliever. When applied topically, it radiates warmth throughout the area of contact. The warmth is enough to soothe body aches.
  5. Black Pepper Essential Oil as Antioxidant Source. A certain study shows that the oil is a good antioxidant. Antioxidants are famous for fighting off free radicals. Free radicals damage the body, making it age faster, but antioxidants protect the body by turning free radicals into safer compounds.
  6. Black Pepper Essential Oil for Colds. It can reduce the symptoms of fever by making the body sweat. Rubbing it on the skin is enough to reduce fever discomfort.
  7. Black Pepper Essential Oil for Skin Problems. A certain study shows that the oil has anti-fungal properties; hence, it can be used to remove skin problems like an-an. Applying it topically can also open up pores thereby easily removing dirt that can cause pimples.
  8. Black Pepper Essential Oil for Opening Blocked Airways. Discomfort brought about by mucus can be alleviated by applying the oil near the chest. A study also shows that it is a possible anti-asthmatic substance.
  9. Black Pepper Essential Oil for Toothaches. A mouthwash for toothaches can be made by mixing the oil with salt.
  10. Black Pepper Essential Oil as Dewormer. A study shows that the oil acts as a larvicide, a substance that can kill parasites in the digestive system.

Black Pepper Essential Oil Side Effects

  • Skin irritation. The essential oil may not be applicable for everyone; in addition, too much application of the essential oil can severely irritate the skin.
  • Caution for pregnant women: Although generally safe in small amounts, too much of the oil is bad for pregnant women. Avoid using in large amounts.

How to Use Black Pepper Essential Oil

There are three ways to use black pepper essential oil are:

  1. Apply 2-3 drops of the diluted essential oil on the area of concern. Dilution is done by mixing the essential oil to a carrier oil such as coconut oil. Avoid applying too much oil because skin irritation might occur.
  2. A small amount of it, probably 2-3 drops, is enough to add in food and beverages. Make sure that it is made properly by referring to labels and standards from your area.
  3. Consult with an aromatherapy expert or book when trying to mix it with other essential oils.

How To Make Black Pepper Essential Oil

The essential oil is extracted through steam distillation. Unripe fruits of black pepper are dried under the sun for at least a week depending on the weather condition. After drying, they are added in a water solution and heated in a still. A still has two compartments, one for the evaporation of water to steam and the other one for condensation of the steam. The solution will evaporate into steam and pass through a tubing wherein it will be collected at the other compartment for condensation. Once the solution condenses, water and the oil will naturally separate due to the two being immiscible. The essential oil can be readily scooped. Further filtration is done to ensure the oil is in its purest form. It is stored in colored vials and in a cool, dark place.

Black Pepper Essential Oil Recipe

To make the essential oil at home:

  1. Prepare a solution in a pot half-full with water by adding dried peppercorns.
  2. Put the lid upside down so that condensed steam will eventually fall back to the solution.
  3. Heat the solution until boiling.
  4. Lower the heat and leave for 3-4 hours.
  5. Let the container cool for a moment before putting in a refrigerator for overnight cooling.
  6. A thin film of oil will be observed after cooling. Scoop the oil carefully.
  7. Put the oil in a tinted glass bottle in a cool, dark place.

Where To Buy Black Pepper Essential Oil

The oil can be bought on online shops like Amazon or Ebay. Some well-known brands include doTERRA, Dr. Axe, Young Living, and Holland and Barrett.

More Information On Black Pepper Essential Oil

  • A study in 1994 shows that the oil can help reduce withdrawal symptoms experienced by smokers.
  • Use the oil only in recommended ways.
  • If experiencing any discomfort, refrain from using it and consult to a doctor.
  • No sure information exists on whether the oil is safe for pet use or have any benefits for them.