“Would you like some fresh cracked pepper?” This is a question you’ll hear at many of your favourite restaurants. For thousands of years, black pepper has been sprinkled on top of meals to add a little kick to the flavour, but did you know that this common pantry spice has been used in Chinese medicine and Ayurveda for its impressive health benefits? Learn why you should always answer “Yes, please!” to some extra pepper on your meals.

Black pepper is commonly found in chai tea blends. It gives a piquant bite that seems to makes every sip more addictive than the last. In Ayurvedic medicine, it’s used to help detoxify the body by promoting sweat and urination. As the the body is detoxified, the flow of oxygen into the brain is improved. It’s also believed to aid in digestion, and clear up congestion. Think of it as a spice that encourages movement in the body.

Black pepper also helps with overall brain health by improving memory impairment and neurodegeneration found in this case study involving people with Alzheimer’s. It also works in tandem with turmeric to help decrease inflammation, boost antioxidants and even help eliminate parasites. It’s supportive in healing and protecting the liver, too. Black pepper maintains an important antioxidant in the body called glutathione, which protects the liver from excess alcohol consumption. Many of us can benefit from that!

Check out these water kefir recipes that include black pepper:

Chai Pear Water Kefir Recipe

Chai Water Kefir Recipe