Black pepper vs white pepper: Unique health benefits and how to use them differently

The spices that we use while making food or to improve our health have multiple benefits and uses that some remain unaware of for years. When it comes to pepper, the spice is a common ingredient in many kitchens across the world.

While Americans tend to use white pepper more, cuisines such as French, Chinese and others include more white pepper in their food. But did you know the spice is useful for more than just its taste?Below find out the health benefits of white and black pepper and how you can use them both!

How are black pepper and white pepper different?

Well, both black and white pepper are derived from the Piper nigrum plant. Black pepper is made from the unripe green berries that are cooked and dried, causing them to turn dark brown.

White pepper is made from the fully ripe red berries soaked in water to remove the outer layer and get the white seed. In terms of their flavour, while black pepper is more spicy, pungent, aromatic and complex, white pepper tends to be mild, musty, and less complex in general.

Health benefits of black pepper

While both black and white pepper contain the compound piperine along with other beneficial components, black pepper tends to include more health benefits because it retains the outer skin.

The spice has piperine as an active ingredient, which various studies have found to have beneficial antioxidant properties. This helps reduce free radical damage to the cells.It is also anti-inflammatory. Various studies in rats with arthritis who were treated with piperine found that they experienced less joint swelling and fewer blood markers of inflammation.Black pepper has also been found to lower cholesterol levels.

In a 42-day study, rats were fed a high-fat diet and black pepper extract to see if they had lowered blood cholesterol levels.According to research black pepper also promotes the amount of good bacteria in the gut and helps reduce appetite.

Health benefits of white pepper

When compared to black pepper, white pepper has less piperine due to the outer layer being removed by soaking in water. However, it still has multiple health benefits.The spice is said to prevent cancer by reducing the formation of free radicals inside the body.

Capsaicin, a component present in white pepper helps in preventing the occurrence of prostate cancer.It is also believed to cure respiratory disorders and is thus used extensively during the summers and winters to heal chest congestion and clear nasal blockage.White pepper is also known to reduce blood pressure due to its richness in flavonoids, vitamin A and vitamin C. Thus, it is a good spice for those facing high blood pressure and hypertension.

How to use black and white pepper?

In terms of flavour, opt for black pepper when you are looking to add bold and spicy flavour to your dish. Similarly, use white pepper when you want mild yet impactful flavours. While the former works well in meats, stews, marinades and dishes with impactful seasonings, the latter is a great and subtle addition to sauces, soups and dishes with less heat.Health-wise, black pepper is a must-add to your culinary creations if you are facing inflammation, high cholesterol levels, or indigestion. White pepper is beneficial in digestive stimulation, reducing blood pressure, curing respiratory problems and more.