Maricha

Description

Maricha (Black pepper, Piper nigrum) is a perennial climbing woody vine belonging to the family Piperaceae. It is native to the Western Ghats of India and is widely cultivated in tropical regions of Asia. The plant has woody stems with aerial roots for climbing, simple ovate leaves, and small greenish-white flowers arranged in pendulous spikes. The fruit is a small globose drupe, green when unripe and turning black when dried, known as the peppercorn. It is one of the most valued spices worldwide, used both in cuisine and traditional medicine. Habitat: Stout glabrous climber . Stem : Terete , sparingly rooting , much thickened at the nodes. Leaves- Coriaceous , 10-18cm long and 5-12 cm widely, broadly ovate , heart shaped , glabrous , 5 to 9 nerves, suprabasal nerves are usually alternate Inflorescence: spikes of variable length Flowers : Dioecious or sometimes polygamous  , stamens are 2 in number Fruit: globose , 6mm in diamtere, on drying , fruits will have wrinkles and on removing outer layer of fruit will have white vertical lines.

Useful Parts

Fruit, dried unriped

Benefits

1. Stimulates Digestive Secretions: Black pepper helps stimulate the secretion of hydrochloric acid and other digestive enzymes in the stomach, which improves the digestive process and nutrient absorption. 2. Relieves Digestive Issues: Its carminative properties can help relieve symptoms like flatulence, bloating, and indigestion. 3. Promotes Gut Health: It supports overall gut health, making it beneficial for digestive comfort and function. 4. Fights Free Radicals: Piper nigrum is rich in antioxidants that combat free radicals, which are unstable molecules linked to cell damage and chronic diseases. 5. Supports Overall Wellness: The antioxidant activity helps protect cells and supports overall body wellness. 6. Respiratory Health: It may stimulate circulation in the respiratory tract, potentially easing throat discomfort and supporting overall respiratory health. 7. Antibacterial Qualities: Piper nigrum has mild antibacterial properties that can be beneficial for managing infections, particularly in the throat. 8. Weight Management: It's known to help with weight loss and can potentially reduce appetite, though more research is needed. 9. Nutrient Absorption: The active compound, piperine, can enhance the bioavailability of other nutrients and herbs, improving their absorption by the body

Pharmacological Action

Stimulant Carminative Stomachic Appetizer Vermifuge.

Rasapancakam

Rasa: Katu

Guna: Tikta, Ruksha

Virya: Usna

Vipaka: Katu

Dosha Karma: Balance kapha and vata