Safed Mirch - Health Benefits, Uses and Important Facts

White pepper is a small, globular spice with a grey or white colour that is about 3 to 4 mm in diameter. It is referred to as "safed mirch" in everyday speech and is derived from the same plant (Piper nigrum) as black pepper. Although white pepper originates from the same shrub as black pepper, it has several wonderful advantages that its sibling spice does not. White pepper is a treasure trove of health advantages, aiding with anything from digestive issues, dental problems, and weight loss to treating minor headaches, colds, and coughs.

Difference between safed mirch and kaali mirch:

Safed and kaali pepper are processed in different ways, which makes a difference. White pepper is made by removing the seed's outer layer before or after drying, unlike black pepper, which is harvested after it has reached peak ripeness and then sun-dried. In addition, compared to black pepper, white pepper has a stronger scent but ages more quickly. White pepper is typically used in meals that are light in colour. This custom first emerged in French cuisine and later gained popularity throughout the world. It is now frequently used in Swedish cuisine as well as soups from China and Vietnam.

Nutritional value of Safed Mirch (White pepper)

There is no sodium in white pepper. It is therefore a safe diet for people with high blood pressure. White pepper does not contain saturated fat, which is advantageous for those who want to have a healthy diet. Per 100 grams of white pepper, the total carbohydrate content is 23%, and the dietary level is 104%.

100 grams of white pepper contain 296 calories. White pepper also contains 26% calcium and 35% vitamin C. White pepper contains a lot of manganese, which promotes a healthy body metabolism.

White pepper contains selenium, which is believed to enhance male sexual hormones and treat impotence. White pepper contains zinc, which aids in sperm motility improvement and sperm count growth. Zinc helps to increase hair and muscle density.

Health benefits of Safed Mirch (White pepper):

1. Aids in pain relief: A study found that white pepper has an active phenolic component with anti-inflammatory properties. This provides the patient with relief by reducing the discomfort in the affected body portion.

2. Aids in the treatment of arthritis: People with rheumatoid arthritis can benefit greatly from the anti-inflammatory properties of white pepper over the long term. Additionally, it helps with all kinds of joint discomfort.
3. Aids in the treatment of respiratory issues: This cherished spice is highly regarded for its medicinal components, including as oligosaccharides and pectic polysaccharides, which are useful in treating respiratory issues like asthma, colds, and bronchitis.

4. Prevents stomach ulcers: Cimetidine, an ingredient in white pepper, enhances the action of gastric acid secretion for simple meal digestion. However, compared to histamine, which is produced naturally in the stomach, white pepper is 40 times less effective.

5. Treats headache: Piperine, an alkaloid found in this aromatic spice, is highly effective at treating migraines and headaches by preventing the brain from receiving pain signals.

6. Controls blood pressure: White pepper's piperine and flavonoids assist in controlling blood pressure. Additionally, they aid in enhancing blood circulation.

7. Decreases oxidative stress: The polyphenols in this white-flavoured spice provide antioxidant properties. This aids the body's defences against the entry of dangerous and alien microorganisms.

8. Controls diabetes: White pepper's piperine, which has antidiabetic properties, effectively lowers glycemia and maintains blood sugar levels in the body. To reduce blood sugar, curcumin and white pepper together are the most effective.

9. Decreases toothache: The major ingredient in white pepper, caryophyllene, has an anti-inflammatory impact that deters toothaches and other dental issues.

10. Treats vitiligo: A skin condition characterised by a loss of natural pigmentation, vitiligo, is treated. White pepper's piperine encourages melanocyte overproduction, which in turn aids in the condition's treatment.

11. Aids in weight management: The capsaicin in white pepper, which is present, helps people lose weight. The substance lowers cholesterol and reduces fat, which aids in fat burning without altering hunger.