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Digestive

Piperine (95% from Piper nigrum seed extract)

Also known as: Black pepper extract, Piper nigrum extract, BioPerine (branded form), Piperine alkaloid

B
Evidence

Piperine is the primary alkaloid compound in black pepper that enhances nutrient bioavailability and has thermogenic and digestive properties. It is widely used as a bioenhancer to improve absorption of other supplements.

Primary uses

  • Bioenhancer for nutrient absorption
  • Digestive support
  • Thermogenesis and metabolism
  • Anti-inflammatory support
  • Gastrointestinal motility

How it works

  • Inhibition of intestinal glucuronidation and P-glycoprotein efflux
  • Enhanced nutrient absorption in the GI tract
  • Thermogenic and metabolic rate increase
  • TRPV1 channel activation
  • Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity

Dosage

Typical range
5-20 mg daily (as bioenhancer); up to 15 mg per dose with target nutrients
Timing
With meals containing fat-soluble substances to enhance absorption
With food
Strongly recommended with food, especially when used as a bioenhancer
Duration
Safe for chronic use; most bioenhancement studies use acute dosing
Special populations
Use cautiously in pregnancy; avoid if sensitive to black pepper; caution in GERD or GI ulcers

Forms

  • Extract powder· 70/100
  • Standardized capsule· 70/100
  • Tablet· 70/100

Safety

Common side effects

  • Generally well-tolerated at bioenhancer doses
  • Rare: GI irritation, heartburn at higher doses
  • Thermogenic effect may increase body temperature slightly

Contraindications

  • Active peptic ulcer disease
  • Severe GERD
  • Gallbladder disease (may increase bile secretion)
  • Allergy to Piper nigrum or black pepper

Evidence notes

Strong evidence for bioenhancement of curcumin and other compounds; human studies confirm increased nutrient absorption; moderate evidence for independent health effects; widely used in clinical practice.

Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.