Biological action of Piper nigrum - the king of spices

Piper nigrum - the king of spices is originated in the Western Ghats of India. It has gained a global consideration because of its volume in the spice industry. It contains major pungent alkaloid piperine which is known to possess many interesting pharmacological actions. Medicinally black pepper can be used digestive disorder like large intestine toxins, different gastric problems, diarrohea and indigestion and also can be used against respiratory disorder including cold fever, asthama.  Piperine exhibits diverse pharmacological activities like antihypertensive, antiplatelets, antioxidant, antitumor, antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrheal, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-reproductive, insecticidal activities. Piper nigrum also found to decrease lipid peroxidation in vivo. It has reported to possess antioxidant activity that might be due to the presence of flavonoids and phenolic contents.