The chemical structure of piperine belongs to the cinnamon amides, with a molecular formula of C17H19NO3 and a molecular weight of 285.33. The maximum absorption peak under ultraviolet light is at 342 nm, and the melting point is 130-133 °C. It has medium polarity and weak alkalinity, and is unique to piperine plants.
It exists in a variety of pepper plants, such as piper (Piper nigrum), pepper (Piper longum), Guinea pepper (Piper guineense), and other plants. Piperine powder is renowned for its health benefits and applications across various industries. In this article, we will learn how does piperine work, and its benefits for human body.
How Does Piperine Work
Accelerating Absorption
Alteration of nutrient absorption through thermogenesis:
A large part of the absorption and utilization of food is determined by food-induced thermogenesis, and piperine can also increase the absorption of nutrients through thermogenesis. The main theory behind food-induced thermogenesis relates to the autonomic nervous system.
The autonomic nervous system is represented by the two main receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, the alpha and beta adrenergic receptors. Most food-or heat-induced thermogenesis is promoted by beta receptors, which include a compound called cyclic adenosine 3',5' monophosphate (cAMP). The
role of cAMP as a "second messenger" for the actions of hormones and enzymes in the body is well established. When thermogenesis occurs, the need for fresh nutrients to maintain metabolic processes increases rapidly.
Piperine has thermogenic properties and can cause an increase in gastrointestinal epithelial cell bioenergetic (cAMP) processes. However, it is worth noting that the local heating effect of piperine is relatively short-lived, and the absorption of nutrients will also increase serum concentration in an instant. This mechanism of action is also believed to achieve a certain weight loss effect.
Increasing Solubility
Micelles are formed in lipids and fat-soluble drugs with the help of bile acids.
Piperine can increase the secretion of bile acids, reduce the metabolism of bile acids, increase the formation of micelles, and improve the solubility and absorption rate.
Studies have shown that black pepper and piperine in the diet cause an increase in bile flow and at the same time reduce the effect of bile solids - hydrogenated bile.
Especially at low doses, the effect of black pepper is more obvious. The increase in bile acid secretion will increase the absorption of lipid nutrients.
In addition, the secretion of total uric acid in bile was increased by both doses of black pepper and piperine, it indicates that some metabolites of piperine may be excreted as glucuronic acid.
Increase Blood Flow
Piperine can increase blood flow in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby improving absorption and utilization.
Increase the Permeability of Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Piperine can modulate membrane dynamics and increase permeability at the absorption site.
Piperine stimulates the activity of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase through interaction with intestinal epithelial cells, thereby increasing the absorption of amino acids by epithelial cells.
Alters the Absorption of Nutrients by Inhibiting the Body's Metabolic Mechanism
Glucuronidation is the addition of glucuronic acid to a substrate and is involved in xenobiotic metabolism. Glucuronic acid is more soluble in water and the body uses glucuronidation to eliminate substances/drugs from the body.
Piperine can inhibit the content of glucuronic acid, allowing water-soluble substances such as vitamin B to enter cells smoothly for use. Piperine was also found to inhibit UDP-glucose dehydrogenase (UDP-GDH) activity in the liver and intestine through non-competitive inhibition.
By Regulating Gastrointestinal Juice Secretion and Prolonging Gastric Emptying
Studies have shown that piperine powder can stimulate gastric acid secretion (increased by 22.2% to 334.6% of different concentrations of piperine), thus promoting the absorption of drugs.
Stimulating Digestive Enzymes
Piperine plays a role in digestive health by stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes from the pancreas. This increase in enzyme production enhances the body’s ability to break down food, leading to improved nutrient absorption. By promoting efficient digestion, piperine helps the body extract maximum benefits from the foods we consume.
Anti-inflammatory
Piperine exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by modulating inflammatory pathways. It inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are signaling molecules that promote inflammation in the body. By reducing inflammation, piperine can alleviate pain and discomfort associated with various conditions. It makes piperine is a valuable compound for supporting joint health and reducing symptoms of chronic inflammatory diseases.
How Much Piperine Should I Take
Bioavailability of Piperine
The bioavailability of piperine is not high, and the amount absorbed and utilized by the human body is very small. In the ordinary diet, the content of piperine is very low and can basically be ignored.
Advise Piperine Powder Dosage
Some studies recommend 20 mg of piperine per day to increase curcumin's bioavailability. However, this does not mean that the recommended daily intake of piperine is 20 mg.
Piperine Precautions
Although piperine powder is relatively safe, it is not recommended to ingest large amounts. If you have special health or anti-aging needs, it is recommended to supplement under the guidance of professionals.
Where Can I Buy Piperine
XI AN CHEN LANG BIO TECH specialize in plant extract powder with higher active ingredients. We are piperine powder manufacturer and supplier in global market, and supply best price. Please send inquiry to email: [email protected] if you want to buy piperine.