There seems to be a universal rule that says turmeric must be paired with black pepper or a derivative thereof called piperine for optimal results. This theory is derived from studies that were performed using curcumin—turmeric’s main active and most crucial compound. Subjects were given a set amount of curcumin and then, at certain time intervals, the amount of curcumin in their blood stream was measured. The researchers were surprised to find that the levels were so low. They expected them to be higher so they set about figuring out how to accomplish that. Bioavailability is the ability of your body to absorb a substance into the bloodstream effectively. Since curcumin is so potent, this so-called weakness in its bioavailability has raised questions and, in turn, solutions have been sought to increase its bioavailability.
Pairing piperine (black pepper’s most active compound) with curcumin is one of many solutions to curcumin’s low bioavailability. It accomplishes this by inhibiting the functioning of a vital liver and intestinal enzyme, CYP3A4, that metabolizes a wide variety of compounds, including many medications. It also inhibits P-glycoprotein (P-gp), an “efflux pump” in the gut and other tissues. This pump plays a crucial role in protecting the body by pumping foreign substances, such as toxins and drugs, back into the intestines, thereby reducing their absorption into the bloodstream. By inhibiting this enzyme's vital action, piperine allows these harmful substances to enter the bloodstream and potentially cause toxicity.
"Appearances are often deceiving." — Aesop
In short, piperine overrides your body’s natural processes and throws out some of its natural filters and safety checks. This may lead to altered absorption of other nutrients, foods, and even medications. This interference can cause imbalances in the body’s natural processing systems. It can also irritate the GI lining, especially in sensitive individuals or those with existing GI issues like acid reflux.
"Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience." — Ralph Waldo Emerson
This popular pairing could be a dangerous game. The gut-liver axis is finely tuned to keep you safe from unnecessary or harmful substances. By slowing down or shutting off these built-in filters, piperine changes your body’s ability to regulate what gets absorbed and what gets excreted. While a sprinkle of pepper in your dinner isn’t cause for concern, the concentrated extracts found in some supplements can ramp piperine levels far beyond anything nature intended. If you’re among those who take multiple prescription medications, have pre-existing liver or GI conditions, or need to closely monitor and dose nutrient/herb intake, then piperine is worth paying attention to.
As research continues to unfold, it’s essential to question long-held health trends and consider the best ways to incorporate turmeric into your wellness routine. The golden root has powerful potential—but sometimes, it shines brightest when left to work on its own.
To learn more about this topic, visit our Blog entitled Reevaluating Combination of Black Pepper or Piperine and Turmeric. Click here.