Organic turmeric powder with black pepper is the ultimate combination for optimal health

09/04/2019 / By Kristine Payne

(Disclaimer: Story contains a promotional link at the end) Culinary spices date back to nearly the dawn of human civilization itself. For thousands of years, people have traded exotic spices all over the world and used them to add flavor to a wide assortment of cuisines. People have also traditionally used spices as natural remedies due to their medicinal qualities. Two of these highly prized spices are black pepper and turmeric powder. Individually, they can provide their own unique health benefits. But when taken together, they form a powerful combination for optimal health.

Black pepper is an ancient and highly versatile spice that has a long history of being used in Ayurvedic medicine for its high concentration of potent, beneficial plant compounds. Derived from the dried berries of the Piper nigrum plant, black pepper is one of the most commonly used spices in the world. It is so useful in enhancing the flavor of dishes that it has even earned the title “King of Spices.” Some of the essential nutrients that can be found in black pepper include manganese, iron, protein, fiber, calcium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, zinc, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and K.

As for turmeric, it is known as the “Golden Spice” and is derived from the dried and finely powdered root of the Curcuma longa plant. Often considered one of the most powerful herbs on the planet, this bright yellow powdered spice is what gives curry its yellow color. It is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, manganese, phosphorus, and vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. This delicious spice is very common in Indian cuisine and many South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines, and its ginger aroma can add an exotic touch to almost any dish.

Each spice contains key bioactive compounds that are responsible for its beneficial properties. Turmeric contains a renowned healing compound called curcumin that possesses powerful antioxidant properties. As for black pepper, around five percent of it is composed of the active alkaloid compound, piperine. It might not sound like much, but if you add even just a pinch of black pepper to turmeric, it can substantially boost the bioavailability of curcumin by up to 2,000 percent. (Related: Better together: Consuming turmeric and black pepper together enhances the bioavailability of curcumin.)

The combined potency of black pepper and turmeric

Among the curcuminoids found in turmeric, curcumin is the most active. Unfortunately, it is not absorbed by the body very well. Consuming more turmeric isn’t necessarily the solution. Studies show that piperine in pepper can increase the bioavailability of certain nutrients. In particular, piperine has a two-fold effect on curcumin. First, it makes it easier for curcumin to pass through your intestinal walls and into your bloodstream. At the same time, it helps slow the breakdown of curcumin in the liver, greatly enhancing and retaining its overall potency when it reaches your bloodstream. Here are a few good reasons to take black pepper together with turmeric powder.

Increases bioavailability of nutrients. Studies show that the piperine in pepper can increase the bioavailability of certain nutrients. Add a pinch of pepper to your daily meals for optimal nutrient absorption.

Supports healthy digestion. Black pepper supports a healthy gut by supporting your digestive system’s natural production of hydrochloric acid and gastric acid. Turmeric can also nurture healthy intestinal flora and gut health to support healthy digestion.

Supports healthy, glowing skin. Loaded with essential nutrients, turmeric helps cleanse the skin and provides nourishment to support the growth of healthy, glowing skin.

Supports healthy bones and joints. According to recent studies, turmeric can deliver essential nutrients, such as curcuminoids, to support healthy bones and joints.

They possess potent antioxidant properties. Research shows that among various plant foods, black pepper has the highest levels of antioxidants and phenolics. Not to mention piperine itself possesses potent antioxidant properties. Meanwhile, the powerful antioxidants in turmeric are up to eight times

Supports a healthy immune system. Due to its impressive antioxidant properties, turmeric also supports the healthy function of your immune system. Add half a teaspoon of turmeric root powder to your regular meals to give yourself a daily immunity boost.