Piperine
Piperine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found mainly in black pepper and other plants of the Piperaceae family. It gives black pepper its pungent flavor and yellowish color. Piperine has been shown to support health by improving nutrient absorption, regulating blood sugar, reducing inflammation, and potentially protecting against cancer. Its content in peppers varies depending on the plant variety, climate, and processing conditions.
Is this used to correct a deficiency or achieve supramaximal levels?
Supramaximal
Is it taken for life span or health span?
Both
Is it targeting a specific disease? Or general health?
improves insulin sensitivity, anticancer, and potential anticoagulant
Any genetic involvement?
Gene associated with phenylpropanoid pathway, related to L-lysine metabolism and genes allied with acyltransferase
Is there a biomarker to track its effects?
Urine and plasma levels
MOA of supplement
Piperine works by affecting several biological pathways in the body. It can reduce inflammation by blocking the activity of COX-2, an enzyme that produces molecules that trigger swelling and pain. In platelets, piperine prevents blood clot formation by inhibiting enzymes like cPLA2 and thromboxane A2 synthase, which are involved in platelet aggregation. It also influences metabolism and antioxidant activity, helping to protect cells from damage and improve nutrient absorption. By targeting these pathways, piperine supports anti-inflammatory, anti-clotting, and general health-promoting effects.
Risk vs reward
+ May have anti aging properties as shown in animal studies
+ May have anti cancer properties
+- May have anti clotting properties which can be beneficial for some and dangerous for those taking anti-platelets or anticoagulants
+- May have reversible anti spermatogenic effects which temporarily affect fertility, this can be positive or negative depending on the individual
+- May improve insulin sensitivity, people should be screened for low insulin levels
Evidence for it?
This animal study in fruit flies examined the effects of piperine, a compound from black pepper, on aging and health. The study found that piperine’s effects depended on the age and sex of the flies. In older flies, piperine improved lifespan, overall health, feeding behavior, and fecundity (the ability to produce offspring), while reducing body fat and lipid levels. In younger flies, some doses had neutral or even negative effects, especially in females. These findings suggest that piperine may have potential anti-aging and anti-obesity benefits, but its impact varies depending on age and sex.
This lab study looked at the effects of piperine, a natural compound from black pepper, on breast cancer cells that make too much of the HER2 protein. Piperine slowed down the growth of these cancer cells, reduced their ability to spread, and triggered cell death. It also made the cells more sensitive to the chemotherapy drug paclitaxel. These results suggest piperine could be helpful in treating HER2-positive breast cancer, but more research in animals and humans is needed to confirm its benefits.
This lab study looked at how piperine, the main compound in black pepper, affects blood clotting and inflammation. Piperine was tested on rabbit blood platelets (cells that help form clots) and mouse immune cells. The study found that piperine reduced platelet clumping by blocking two enzymes called cPLA2 and TXA2 synthase, which are needed to start clotting. It did not affect another enzyme called COX-1. In immune cells, piperine lowered inflammation by blocking COX-2, an enzyme that helps produce inflammatory signals. These results show that piperine can reduce both clotting and inflammation, but it works in different ways in different cells. More research is needed to see if it could be used safely in humans.
Evidence against it?
This case report looked at a helicopter pilot who had been on a low-calorie diet and taking daily curcumin (600 mg) and piperine (8.55 mg) supplements for weight loss. He experienced a sudden loss of consciousness during a flight and was later diagnosed with an insulinoma, a tumor that causes excess insulin. The supplements may have lowered his blood sugar further, triggering severe hypoglycemia. While usually safe, curcumin and piperine may carry risks for people with hidden problems in insulin or blood sugar control.
This systematic review looked at whether curcumin and piperine supplements can improve blood sugar control and body weight in people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. Three clinical trials were included. Two studies found no significant effects, while one reported lower BMI in the supplement group compared to placebo. A meta-analysis showed small improvements in fasting blood sugar, insulin resistance, and BMI, but none reached clear statistical significance. Overall, curcumin with piperine may have some benefit, but the current evidence is limited, and more high-quality studies are needed to confirm these results.
Best bioavailable form?
In food or as a capsule
Advice on taking it?
With curcumin and with food