Ingredient
Piperine
What is Piperine?
Piperine is an alkaloid responsible for the pungency of black pepper. It is extracted from the dried fruits of the Piper nigrum plant through solvent extraction methods.
Piperine is commonly used to enhance the absorption of various nutrients and supplements, most notably curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, by inhibiting enzymes that would otherwise metabolize these nutrients quickly. Research suggests that piperine may improve bioavailability, but solid conclusions about its health effects remain limited.
When you see piperine on a label, it's typically included to maximize the effectiveness of other ingredients, particularly in dietary supplements rather than food products.
Commonly found in: dietary supplements, spice blends, nutraceuticals, functional foods, sports nutrition products
Benefits
- May enhance nutrient absorption and bioavailability, particularly for curcumin.
- Research indicates potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Piperine is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in specified amounts, particularly as a food and supplement additive.
Some studies support piperine's role in improving nutrient absorption, but comprehensive human trials are lacking.
Piperine is plant-derived and typically considered vegan-friendly.
Scout's take
Primary bioactive; enhances curcumin absorption by up to 2000%; anti-inflammatory and digestive stimulant
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