Indian long pepper

Piper longum

Piper longum, commonly known as Indian long pepper, is a traditional medicinal plant used in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine. It has been traditionally employed for various purposes including digestive health and respiratory support, though specific uses vary among different traditions. Scientific evidence suggests that piperlongumine, an active compound found in Piper longum, may have anti-inflammatory properties. However, the strength of this evidence is currently limited, and further research is needed to confirm these findings comprehensively. There are no reported major safety issues or drug interactions with Piper longum; however, given its potential effects on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), caution should be exercised when considering use alongside medications like warfarin, although a direct interaction has not been definitively established.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Current evidence suggests that piperlongumine can inhibit or modulate inflammatory responses. D PMID
  • A probable interaction between warfarin and a toothache solution containing Piper longum was associated with an ischemic stroke, though the relationship is uncertain. D PMID
  • Four new amide alkaloids were isolated from Piper longum fruits, and some compounds showed potential anti-adipogenic activity. D PMID
  • PLG inhibited the phenotypic switch, proliferation, and migration of VSMCs, potentially reducing atherosclerosis progression. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Indian long pepper?

Indian long pepper (Piper longum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Indian long pepper?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Indian long pepper; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Current evidence suggests that piperlongumine can inhibit or modulate inflammatory responses.

How strong is the evidence for Indian long pepper?

The strongest finding for Indian long pepper carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Indian long pepper safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Indian long pepper in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Indian long pepper interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Indian long pepper in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Indian long pepper?

Indian long pepper is also known as: Перец длинный, Poivrier long.

Is Indian long pepper a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Probable interaction between warfarin and a toothache solution containing Piper longum L. leading to ischemic stroke: a case report. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Piperlonguminine attenuates atherosclerosis in mice via phenotype switching inhibition of vascular smooth muscle cells. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Four new amide alkaloids from the fruits of Piper longum and their anti-adipogenic activities. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Piperlongumine: A Natural Alkamide with Multi-target Anti-inflammatory Mechanisms of Action. literature abstract metadata