Black Pepper Essential Oil (Piper nigrum)
Black Pepper essential oil is an unexpectedly versatile essential oil and as indispensable in your oil collection as pepper is on the dinner table.
Here are some fascinating tidbits of information.
Growth
Pepper grows on vines up to 5 meters high. Native to India and Indonesia, the crop has been cultivated in those countries for over 2000 years.
Theophrastus referred to Black Pepper already in the 4th century B.C.
The fruits grow in clusters, do not all ripen at the same time, and hang on the vine in beautiful colours.
Types of peppercorns.
Pepper is harvested and sorted by hand.
White, black and green peppercorns come from the same plant, while pink peppercorns come from different plant species.
To make white pepper, the ripe fruits are soaked, the pods removed and then dried and ground to produce white pepper.
Black Pepper has a sharper taste and is obtained by soaking the fruits that are almost ripe in water and then drying them in the sun.
Green peppercorns are obtained from fruits that are not yet ripe at all and are often pickled.
Pink ‘peppercorns’ are the dried berries of the Peruvian or Brazilian pepper tree - a relative of cashew nuts and not true peppercorns.
Black Pepper essential oil.
This oil is obtained by steam distillation of dried, almost ripe, crushed grains of the Piper nigrum plant. 20kg of peppercorns yield about 1kg of essential oil.
Fragrance
The oil has an intriguing aroma in a diffuser - fresh, warm, slightly woody and sweet.
Composition of the oil.
The essential oil is rich in monoterpene hydrocarbons and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons.
Monoterpene hydrocarbons are known for their analgesic and anti-septic properties, and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons for anti-viral properties.
Therapeutic uses for Black Pepper Oil.
Analgesic, anti-septic, antispasmodic, reduces bloating, improves digestion, improves blood circulation, and acts as a general tonic.
Emotional profile - who benefits emotionally from the oil?
Black Pepper is for those who experience themselves as almost too strict. They are often in positions of authority and can present their side of a matter very convincingly.
They often take responsibility for the entire family.
Those who grew up where it was difficult to give or receive love, and do not express emotions easily, also benefit from Black Pepper. If your life makes you feel old before your time, Black Pepper essential oil becomes an option.
How can I use the oil?
For balanced expectations of yourself and others:
• 2 drops Black Pepper: brings warmth, courage and flexibility; softens rigidity.
• 4 drops Bergamot - positivity, self-acceptance and reduces critical tendencies.
• 3 drops Lemon - reduces emotional exhaustion, brings a lighter touch to life and reduces the need for perfectionism.
Use in a diffuser or triple and mix all 21 drops to 30ml carrier oil.
The frustration brought on by setting high standards for yourself and others can result in suppressed anger and irritation. The high levels of cortisol and adrenaline associated with this can also lead to joint pain. (inflammation and stiffness in muscles and ligaments).
Pain relief and circulation
• 4 drops Black Pepper - warming, stimulates circulation, relieves stiffness.
• 5 drops German Chamomile - anti-inflammatory, calms nerves.
• 3 drops Lavender - calming and anti-inflammatory.
Blend and use in a diffuser, or triple and use on 50ml massage oil.
Versatile oil
Black Pepper balances other essential oil blends. This oil is often ‘just that little something’ that is missing. Its soft woody scent allows other combinations to come into their own, just as pepper in food adds a touch of extra flavour.
A surprising combination is Rose and Black Pepper. Try it with Jasmine for an exciting, almost sensual fragrance.
Sources:
Battaglia, S.
The complete guide to aromatherapy, 2nd edition.
The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane, Australia, 2003
P171-172
Disclaimer:
Essential oils should be used responsibly. It does not replace any medical treatment and is used at your own risk.
