Essential Oil of the Month: Black Pepper
Black Pepper (Piper nigrum)
The ever familiar yet underappreciated Black Pepper. You may have some sitting on your table right now, or definitely in your spice cabinet. But have you ever experienced it as an essential oil? Its warm, spicy, stimulating, and sensual aroma may surprise you. And, unlike ground peppercorns, Black Pepper essential oil will not make you sneeze!
Much more than a common table spice, Black Pepper has been prized for centuries not only for its culinary use, but also for its healthy and beneficial virtues.
The first use of Black Pepper goes back more than 2000 years in India where it was used not only in food, but in traditional Ayurvedic practice. From there its use spread throughout Asia and the Middle East where it became so popular that it was soon known as the “King of Spices” as well as “Black Gold” and was widely traded on the Silk Road.
So treasured was the ubiquitous Black Pepper that in ancient time it was used as money to pay taxes, tributes, dowries, and rent, leading to the expression “peppercorn rent.” It was weighed like gold and used as a common medium of exchange. In fact, it was so popular in Europe that it initiated exploration by the likes of Columbus, Marco Polo, and Vasco de Gama, providing them with a new mission to procure this precious spice. In the Middle Ages, it was a luxury item reserved for the elite, symbolizing opulence and prestige. In Ancient Greece, the possession of Black Pepper or Black Pepper Oil became a symbol of power, wealth and luxury.
Black Pepper was introduced to the West after the global conquests of Alexander the Great (4th century BC). In AD 410, when Rome was besieged by the Visigoths, 3,000 pounds of pepper was demanded as ransom. Then, two years later they levied another 3,000 pounds of pepper to be paid annually, which amounted to roughly the city’s yearly supply.
In Ancient Egypt it was used as part of the mummification process. And in Sung Dynasty (1271-1367) China, Black Pepper was so highly regarded that it was customary for South Asian diplomats to bring offerings of it to the Chinese rulers.
While we think of Black Pepper as a spice, botanically it is a fruit. For the essential oil, the berries are picked just as they begin to ripen while still a bit green. They are then dried, usually in the sun, where they darken and are crushed before being distilled.
Energetically, Black Pepper essential oil is considered hot and dry. According to Ancient Chinese Medicine, pepper is used as a general yang tonic (warm, masculine) to combat lethargy and coldness. It can offer stimulating effects to the mind and an invigorating effect on the body and is said to help clear energy blocks. Its hot “warrior energy” can promote courage, strength and inner fire.
Spiritually, Black Pepper is associated with the third eye chakra and stimulates intuition, insight, clarity and mental focus. Also associated with the third chakra (solar plexus), it is said to enhance self-worth, self-confidence, courage and personal power.
Black Pepper essential oil’s slightly aphrodisiac qualities may warm emotions and ignite passions. In an intimate blend it can encourage a romantic mood.
With winter approaching, Black Pepper is excellent to allay the discomforts of the cold, damp and dark season. Its warming, nurturing and comforting properties can enrich both mind and spirit.
For a relaxing, sensual and uplifting blend:
3 drops Bergamot
2 drops Black Pepper
1 drop Ylang ylang
This blend can be used in a diffuser (maximum 6 drops) or mixed in one ounce of carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil for a bath/body/massage oil.
Popular Black Pepper Infused Products from Body Bliss
PRECAUTIONS: For external use only. Black Pepper has a warming effect on skin and coud possibly be a skin irritant for those with sensitive skin. Do a patch test before using. Dilute properly. Consult a physician before use if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition or are taking medication.
