Piperine: Old Spice and New Nutraceutical?

Abstract

BACKGROUND\nMany of the activities associated with pepper fruits have been attributed to piperine, the most active compound present in these spices.\n\n\nOBJECTIVE\nThis paper aims to provide an overview of the known properties of piperine, i.e. piperine s chemistry, its physiological activity, documented interactions as a bioenhancer and reported data concerning its toxicity, antioxidant properties and anticancer activity.\n\n\nDISCUSSION\nIt is known that piperine possesses several properties. In its interaction with other drugs, it can act as a bioavailability enhancer; this effect is also manifested in combination with other nutraceuticals, e.g. with curcumin, i.e. piperine can modify curcumin s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anticancer effects. Piperine displays significant immunomodulating, antioxidant, chemopreventive and anticancer activity; these effects have been shown to be dose-dependent and tissue-specific. However, the main limitation associated with piperine seems to be its low bioavailability, a disadvantage that innovative formulations are overcoming.\n\n\nCONCLUSION\nIt is predicted that an increasing number of studies will focus on piperine, especially those directed towards unraveling its properties at the molecular level. The current knowledge about the action of piperine will form a foundation for ways to improve piperine s bioavailability e.g. exploitation of different carrier systems. Only then will the therapeutical applications of this compound become clarified, and piperine will be recognized as an important nutraceutical.