Rejuvenate with Black Pepper

When you think black pepper what is the first thing you think of? Personally the first thing I think of is my mom always putting too much black pepper on my eggs when I was growing up. It always made me sneeze and she did it every time.

However it turned out black pepper is very good for you. Black pepper has been used throughout history to solve many digestive issues. It has been used as a laxative and a diuretic; it's also used as an antiseptic and an anti-fungal. Black pepper has been linked to relief in muscular aches; reducing symptoms of colds, flus, and fevers; used for increasing circulation and decreasing exhaustion. Black pepper has even been known to help in lessening addiction cravings.

Black pepper re-energizes and rejuvenates the body.

The history: Throughout history Black pepper has been a very desirable spice. It has been used in India since 2000 BCE; and was even used as currency during the Roman empire, "peppercorn rents" were often given to landlords.

Did you know? Christopher Columbus was duped by the Spaniards over pepper. He purchased a ship holds full of peppercorns or so he thought. Upon landing at his destination, he found that what he came back with was in fact chili peppers; which were basically useless for him at the time.

Benefits: How to use black pepper in your life...

Relieve constipation/gas: make a bedtime time with chamomile, peppermint, and black pepper (can add a sweetener or other herbs for preference)

Regulate your appetite: the aroma of black pepper is off putting to your hunger pains. Sniffing black pepper can help reduce your urge to eat. Be careful though, it will also make you sneeze.

Reduce bruising: using black pepper oil (diffused in a carrier oil) can be used on a compress to reduce the size and lessen the color of a bruise.

To warm your feet/body: make a warm foot soak infused with black pepper (and other herbs/spices preferred) - soak your feet for 15-20 minutes. This also works better in coconut or rice milk.

For stress relief: diffuse 3 drops black pepper oil with 3 drops of orange oil

To relieve aching muscles: using 3-5 drops of black pepper essential oil in a hot bath and soak for at least 30 minutes

For anxious feelings or feelings of being stuck: inhale the aroma of black pepper - it will settle your nerves and help you see more clearly

Supernatural uses: Black pepper is used in spells for things such as stimulation, courage, bravery, and action-oriented intentions. It helps to generate positivity and protects against the unwanted. Use black pepper when you need a boost of encouragement or courage. You should use this spice if you are looking to confront your fears.

For summoning your inner strength: combine black pepper, bergamot, cinnamon, and lemon

For inner conviction/strength to act: rub 2 drops of black pepper oil between your palms

Aphrodisiac: diffusing black pepper oil can help to set the "spicy" mood

Friendly herbs/ingredients: Marjoram, lavender, rosemary, cinnamon, sandalwood, clove, frankincense and ginger