Native to India, Black Pepper (Piper Nigrum) is best known for it’s ability to spice up your meals and adding flavor to your food. However, because of it’s powerful chemical makeup, black pepper is much more than a handy spice in the kitchen. The not-so-widely known essential oil is made up of a vast amount of chemical compounds that can support and protect the human body. High in monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, which are known for their antioxidant activity; when ingested, black pepper can help support the immune system when it’s needed most. In ancient times, black pepper was used as a medium of exchange throughout Greece and Rome. While emotionally speaking, black pepper is known as The Oil of Unmasking. In childhood, most people learn early on that to be loved and accepted, they must hide undesirable aspects of themselves. Black pepper assists individuals to dig deep within the less understood parts of themselves. Whether or not these feelings and motives are truly understood, they still exist and can be expressed through erratic or compulsive behavior if pushed down or repressed. Black pepper also gives the individual strength to overcome their challenges by fueling motivation, high energy, and accelerating the healing process.
BOTANICAL FAMILY: Betulaceae
AROMATIC DESCRIPTION: Comforting, Stimulating, Spicy, Sharp
APPLICATION METHODS: Aromatic, Topical, Internal
EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam distilled from berries
COMPLIMENTARY OILS:
Blends With: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Clary Sage, Clove, Frankincense, Geranium, Juniper Berry, Lavender, and Sandalwood
PRIMARY BENEFITS:
Enhances flavor of food.
Increases circulation and blood flow to muscles and nerves.
Aids digestion issues such as constipation, diarrhea, and gas.
Soothes anxious feelings.
Assists the body in relieving cramps and muscle spasms.
Assists with cigarette cravings and the associated anxious feelings.
Rich source of antioxidants.
PRIMARY USES:
Apply to the bottom of your feet for a stimulating wake up after your afternoon nap.
Add to soups, meats, and entrees to enhance flavor.
Diffuse for a stimulating aroma and to soothe anxious feelings.
Take 1-2 drops daily in an empty veggie capsule for antioxidant support when seasonal threats are high.
Dilute 1-2 drops with a carrier oil for a warming massage.
Add one drop to your water or in an empty veggie capsule to help support healthy circulation.
Apply to the bottoms of your feet before going outside on a chilly day to help keep your feet warm.
EMOTIONS ADDRESSED:
Negative: Repressed emotions, feeling trapped, judgmental, emotional dishonesty, superficial
Positive: Personal integrity, courageous, motivated, authentic, self-aware
CAUTIONS: Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.