Pippali

🌿 (Piper longum) or Long Pepper

📖 Overview

Pippali is a potent Ayurvedic spice and rejuvenative herb traditionally used to support digestion, respiratory health, and rejuvenation. Considered milder and more medicinal than black pepper, it is highly revered in formulations for cleansing, metabolic stimulation, and longevity support.

📜 Traditional Use in Ayurveda

Pippali is classified as Deepana (stimulates digestion), Pachana (enhances metabolism), and Rasayana (rejuvenative). It is particularly valued for supporting the lungs, reproductive tissues, and Agni (digestive fire), while also balancing Vata and Kapha.

Charaka Samhita (Chikitsa Sthana 1.3.29):
“Pippali rasayana kantya balya medhya”
“Pippali is rejuvenative, enhances voice, strengthens, and improves intellect.”

Bhavaprakasha Nighantu (Haritakyadi Varga, Verse 77):
“Pippali katu rasa ushnaveerya vatakaphaghni deepani rasayani”
“Pippali is pungent, heating, pacifies Vata and Kapha, improves digestion, and rejuvenates.”

It is a key ingredient in classical formulas like Trikatu, Chyawanprash, and Pippali Rasayana.

🍵 Suggested Use

Pippali is typically used in the following forms:

• Powder (Churna): 250 mg–1 gram, often taken with honey or ghee

• Capsules/Tablets: Combined with other herbs for digestion, lungs, or Rasayana support

• Decoction or infusion: For lung and sinus support

• With milk/ghee: Traditional Rasayana method for long-term rejuvenation

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Modern research supports Pippali's benefits for digestion, respiratory health, and bioavailability:

• Respiratory Support: Pippali has bronchodilatory and mucolytic effects, helpful in respiratory tract cleansing [1]

• Digestive Enhancement: Promotes enzyme secretion and bile flow for improved digestion [2]

• Bioavailability Enhancer: Known to enhance absorption of other herbs, similar to black pepper [3]

References:

1. Shah, A. Y., et al. (2012). Bronchodilator and antihistaminic effects of Piper longum extract in asthma models. J Ethnopharmacol, 144(1), 92–99.

2. Prakash, J., et al. (2001). Effect of Pippali on liver enzymes and bile secretion. Indian J Exp Biol, 39(11), 1168–1171.

3. Johri, R. K. (2010). Enhancing bioavailability of drugs through Pippali (Piper longum). Indian J Nat Prod Resour, 1(4), 401–406.

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

• Pippali is heating—avoid high doses in high Pitta conditions

• Long-term use should be monitored by a practitioner

• May cause heartburn in sensitive individuals

• Not recommended in pregnancy unless advised by an Ayurvedic physician

🛍️ Shop by Interest

• Digestion & Gut

• Respiratory System

• Vitality

• Products for Vata

"Products Featuring Pippali"

"These products feature Pippali, traditionally used to support general wellness. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease."