Long Pepper (Pippali, Piper longum, Indian long pepper) is an Ayurvedic herb that can be used to treat common cold, wet cough, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, migraine (caused by sinusitis) and wet and mucusy conditions of the respiratory system.
Long pepper contains higher alkaloid piperine (about 6%) than in black pepper. It also contains 1% essential oil, which exhibits antibacterial activities. The fruit is effective in prevention of recurrent attacks of bronchial asthma and malaria. Piper longum extract benefits respiratory function and enhances thermogenic response or releases metabolic heat energy. Long pepper is the major constituent of an Ayurvedic formula – “Triaktu”.
Pippali has strong warming properties and tonic effects. It is used by Ayurveda to reduce kapha, get rid of colds, wet conditions and lung ailments. Studies have shown that it can effectively reduce passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in rats and protect guinea pigs against antigen induced bronchospasm.
How to use Indian Long Pepper – Three Recipes
How to use Indian long pepper for the ailments? Indian long pepper can be used alone or combined with other herbs.
Recipe 1 – Long Pepper for Cold and Wet Cough:
– Powder 1 gram
– Warm water 1 cup
– Honey a teaspoon
– Mix them
– Take it, twice a day
Recipe 2 – Long Pepper and Calotropis Gigantea (Crown flower) for Asthma:
– Long Pepper 50 grams
– Calotropis Gigantea 50 grams
– Ground two herbs into a fine powder
– Take 1 gram of the powder, twice a day
Recipe 3 – Long Pepper and Adhatoda Vasica for Cough:
– Long Pepper powder 1 gram
– Adhatoda Vasica Leaves powder 2 grams
– Boil in a cup of water for 2 minutes
– Drink it twice a day
Please note, there are many warnings against its single, constant and unmonitored use due to its strong warming and drying properties. Do not use it to treat an ailment with “fire” symptoms, such as thirst, ulcers, inflammation, etc. More studies needed to rate the effectiveness of Indian long pepper for its medicinal uses. Please consult with your doctor before using it for any ailment.
