Fructus Piperis albi (White Pepper Fruit)

Fructus Piperis albi (White Pepper Fruit)

Product Name: Плоды белого перца, Fructus Piperis albi, Weißer Pfeffer, Pimienta blanca, Poivre blanc, فلفل أبيض, พริกไทยขาว, Oq qalampir mevasi, Ак ак калампыр, Ağ istiot, Фарорак сафед, Baltasis pipiras, Baltais pipars, Білий перець, Ağ istiot, פלפל לבן

Synonyms: белый перец, white pepper, weißer Pfeffer, pimienta blanca, poivre blanc, الفلفل الأبيض, พริกไทยขาว

Parts used: fruit

Main indications for the use of Fructus Piperis albi: Inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract, digestive disorders, flatulence, pain syndrome, metabolic disorders, gastritis, intestinal atony.

Use of Fructus Piperis albi in mixtures and complexes: Gastroesophageal reflux disease, chronic pancreatitis, irritable bowel syndrome, intestinal dysbiosis.

Pharmacological properties of Fructus Piperis albi: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, digestive stimulating, appetite improving, choleretic, analgesic, metabolic.

Dosage of pharmaceutical forms — Fructus Piperis albi

Powder — Fructus Piperis albi

Indications (Powder): gastritis, flatulence, intestinal atony, inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract, digestive disorders.

Standard Dosage (Powder): is taken orally at 0.5–1 gram 2–3 times a day, with water.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): is prescribed at 1–1.5 grams 3 times a day for chronic gastritis with low acidity, irritable bowel syndrome.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): up to 2 grams 3 times a day for severe forms of intestinal atony and chronic bronchitis.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): at 0.25 grams once a day for chronic digestive disorders, for elderly patients, in courses of 14 days with a 1-month break.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): from 12 years of age at 0.25–0.5 grams 1–2 times a day; child's weight from 35 kg; gender is irrelevant.

Contraindications (Powder): is not recommended for peptic ulcer in the acute stage, hypersensitivity; data during pregnancy and lactation are not registered.

Side Effects (Powder): upon overdose may cause gastric mucosal irritation, heartburn, diarrhea.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: for body weight less than 60 kg, the dose is reduced by 20%; for body weight more than 60 kg, no correction is required.

Preparation method (Powder): is obtained by drying peeled fruits at a temperature of 40–50 °C for 48 hours, followed by fine grinding to a fraction of less than 0.5 mm.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): store in a dry, dark place at a temperature of 15–25 °C, in an airtight container; shelf life is 24 months; after opening, use within 3 months.

Dry Extract — Fructus Piperis albi

Indications (Dry Extract): digestive disorders, gastritis, flatulence, intestinal atony, inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): is taken orally at 0.2–0.5 grams 2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): is prescribed at 0.5 grams 3 times a day for chronic gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): up to 0.7 grams 3 times a day for severe forms of intestinal atony and bronchitis.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): at 0.1 grams once a day for chronic digestive disorders, for elderly patients, in courses of 14 days with a 1-month break.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): from 12 years of age at 0.1–0.25 grams 1–2 times a day; weight from 35 kg.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): is contraindicated in peptic ulcer in the acute stage, hypersensitivity; data on pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): upon overdose, mucosal irritation and dyspeptic symptoms are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: for weight less than 60 kg, the dose is reduced by 20%; for weight more than 60 kg, no correction is required.

Preparation method (Dry Extract): 70% ethanol is used as an extractant; extraction is carried out at 40 °C for 3 hours; then the solution is evaporated in a water bath at a temperature not exceeding 50 °C to a dry residue; complete removal of the solvent is controlled by the disappearance of the odor; residual solvent content does not exceed 500 ppm.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): store in an airtight dark container at a temperature of 15–25 °C; shelf life is 24 months; after opening, use within 6 months.

Tincture — Fructus Piperis albi

Indications (Tincture): gastritis, flatulence, digestive disorders, inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract, intestinal atony.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): is taken orally at 20–30 drops 2–3 times a day, diluted in 50 ml of water.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): is prescribed at 40 drops 3 times a day for chronic gastritis with low acidity, irritable bowel syndrome.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): up to 50 drops 3 times a day for severe forms of intestinal atony and chronic bronchitis.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): at 10–15 drops once a day for chronic digestive disorders, for elderly patients, in courses of 14 days with a 1-month break.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Contraindications (Tincture): is contraindicated in peptic ulcer in the acute stage, hypersensitivity, alcohol dependence; data on pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Tincture): upon overdose, stomach irritation, heartburn, dizziness are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: for body weight less than 60 kg, the dose is reduced by 20%; for body weight more than 60 kg, no correction is required.

Preparation method (Tincture): is prepared with 70% ethanol; for 100 g of finished tincture, take 20 g of crushed fruit and 80 g of ethanol; extraction is carried out in a dark vessel at room temperature for 14 days with daily shaking; then strain; residual solvent content complies with standards for tinctures.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): store in a dark airtight container at a temperature of 15–25 °C; shelf life is 24 months; after opening, use within 12 months.

Oil Infusion — Fructus Piperis albi

Indications (Oil Infusion): digestive disorders, flatulence, intestinal atony, inflammatory skin diseases, pain syndrome.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): is used externally as rubs and compresses, applied 2 times a day to the affected areas.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): is used up to 3 times a day for chronic skin inflammations, myalgias, arthralgias.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): It is not recommended to exceed 3 applications per day due to the risk of skin irritation.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): for the prevention of skin diseases and improvement of microcirculation is applied once a day in courses of 14 days with a 1-month break.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): Use of the Oil Infusion in children under 12 years of age is contraindicated without medical consultation.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Hypersensitivity to components, open wounds, dermatitis in the acute stage; data on pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): Upon overdose, skin itching, redness, burning are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Dose adjustment is not required, given external use.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): is prepared on a coconut oil base; for 100 g of oil, take 10 g of crushed fruit; the mixture is infused in a dark container at 40 °C for 14 days with periodic shaking; strain through cheesecloth; the finished infusion is stored in an airtight container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): store in a dark place at a temperature of 15–25 °C; shelf life is 12 months; after opening, use within 3 months.

Vaginal Suppositories — Fructus Piperis albi

Indications (Vaginal Suppositories): inflammatory diseases of the vagina (vaginitis), vaginal dysbiosis, atrophic vaginitis.

Standard Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): is administered as 1 suppository once a day at night, course of 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): is used as 1 suppository 2 times a day for severe inflammation and infections.

Maximum Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): 2 suppositories per day is not recommended to exceed due to the risk of mucosal irritation.

Preventive Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): 1 suppository 2 times a week for a tendency to recurrent inflammation, course of 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): Not used in children and girls before puberty.

Contraindications (Vaginal Suppositories): Hypersensitivity to components, pregnancy (safety data absent), acute mucosal injuries.

Side Effects (Vaginal Suppositories): Local reactions are possible — burning, itching, irritation upon overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Dose adjustment is not required.

Preparation method (Vaginal Suppositories): is prepared on a base of coconut oil and beeswax; for 100 g of base, take 5 g of dry fruit extract; thoroughly melt the base, mix with the extract, pour into molds, cool until solid; store the finished product in an airtight package.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Vaginal Suppositories): store at a temperature of 8–15 °C, in a place protected from light; shelf life is 12 months; after opening the package, use within 1 month.

Rectal Suppositories — Fructus Piperis albi

Indications (Rectal Suppositories): intestinal atony, constipation, inflammatory diseases of the rectum, hemorrhoids.

Standard Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): is administered as 1 suppository once a day, preferably at night, course of 7–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): For severe symptoms, administer 1 suppository 2 times a day, course not exceeding 10 days.

Maximum Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): 2 suppositories per day, exceeding may cause mucosal irritation.

Preventive Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): 1 suppository 2 times a week for chronic intestinal motility disorders, course of 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): Not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.

Contraindications (Rectal Suppositories): Acute inflammatory processes of the rectum with mucosal damage, hypersensitivity to components.

Side Effects (Rectal Suppositories): Local irritation, burning, possible allergic reaction upon overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Dose adjustment is not required.

Preparation method (Rectal Suppositories): prepared on a base of coconut oil and cocoa butter; for 100 g of base, add 5 g of dry extract; melt the base, add the extract, mix, pour into molds, cool until solid.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Rectal Suppositories): store in a cool, dark place at a temperature of 8–15 °C; shelf life is 12 months; after opening, use within 1 month.

Nasal Drops — Fructus Piperis albi

Indications (Nasal Drops): acute and chronic rhinitis, nasal congestion, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis.

Standard Dosage (Nasal Drops): is instilled 2–3 drops into each nostril 2–3 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Nasal Drops): For severe nasal congestion, instill 4 drops 3 times a day for no more than 5 days.

Maximum Dosage (Nasal Drops): Do not exceed 4 drops 3 times a day to avoid mucosal irritation.

Preventive Dosage (Nasal Drops): 1–2 drops once a day for a tendency to recurrent rhinitis, course of 14 days.

Pediatric Dosage (Nasal Drops): Not recommended for use in children under 6 years of age.

Contraindications (Nasal Drops): Hypersensitivity, acute injuries of the nasal mucosa, pregnancy and lactation data are not registered.

Side Effects (Nasal Drops): Burning, dryness, mucosal irritation are possible upon overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Dose adjustment is not required.

Preparation method (Nasal Drops): are prepared on a water-alcohol base with 10% ethanol; for 100 ml of solution, take 2 g of dry extract; the extract is dissolved in a mixture of distilled water and ethanol; filter, pour into sterile bottles with a dropper; the solvent is completely removed using evaporation technology.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Nasal Drops): store in a dark, cool place at a temperature of 15–25 °C; shelf life is 24 months; after opening, use within 3 months.

Ear Drops — Fructus Piperis albi

Indications (Ear Drops): external otitis, inflammation of the ear canal, itching and irritation of the ear skin.

Standard Dosage (Ear Drops): is instilled 3–4 drops into the affected ear 2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Ear Drops): For severe inflammation, increase the dose to 4–5 drops 3 times a day, course not exceeding 7 days.

Maximum Dosage (Ear Drops): 5 drops 3 times a day, exceeding may cause irritation.

Preventive Dosage (Ear Drops): Use no more than once a day for a tendency to inflammation, course of 14 days.

Pediatric Dosage (Ear Drops): Not recommended for children under 6 years of age without medical consultation.

Contraindications (Ear Drops): Perforation of the eardrum, hypersensitivity, pregnancy and lactation data are absent.

Side Effects (Ear Drops): Burning, skin redness are possible upon overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Dose adjustment is not required.

Preparation method (Ear Drops): Ear Drops are prepared on the basis of an oil infusion with coconut oil; for 100 ml of infusion, take 3 g of dry extract; the mixture is filtered, poured into sterile bottles with a dropper.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ear Drops): store at a temperature of 15–25 °C in a dark place; shelf life is 12 months; after opening, use within 3 months.

Ointment — Fructus Piperis albi

Indications (Ointment): inflammatory and painful conditions of the skin, myalgias, arthralgias, arthritis.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): is applied to the affected areas in a thin layer 2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): For severe pain and inflammation, apply 3 times a day, but not for more than 7 consecutive days.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): 3 applications per day, exceeding may cause skin irritation.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Apply once a day for chronic muscle and joint conditions, course of 14 days with a 1-month break.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): Not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.

Contraindications (Ointment): Hypersensitivity to components, damaged skin, dermatitis in the acute phase; data on pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Ointment): Redness, itching, allergic reactions are possible upon overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Dose adjustment is not required.

Preparation method (Ointment): is prepared on a base of coconut oil and beeswax; for 100 g of base, add 5 g of dry extract; melt the base, mix with the extract, cool until thickened.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): store in a cool, dark place at a temperature of 15–25 °C; shelf life is 12 months; after opening, use within 3 months.

Cream — Fructus Piperis albi

Indications (Cream): inflammatory skin processes, skin itching, dermatitis, myalgias.

Standard Dosage (Cream): is applied to the skin 2 times a day in a thin layer.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): For severe inflammation, apply 3 times a day, for no more than 10 consecutive days.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): 3 applications per day.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): 1 application per day for chronic skin problems, course of 14 days with a 1-month break.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): Not recommended for children under 12 years of age without medical consultation.

Contraindications (Cream): Hypersensitivity, open wounds, acute dermatitis; data on pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Cream): Burning, itching, allergic reactions upon overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Dose adjustment is not required.

Preparation method (Cream): is prepared on a base of coconut oil, emulsifier, and distilled water; for 100 g of cream, take 5 g of dry extract; the ingredients are mixed at a temperature of 40 °C until a homogeneous mass is obtained.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): store in a dark, cool place at a temperature of 15–25 °C; shelf life is 6 months; after opening, use within 3 months.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Fructus Piperis albi

Toxicity studies have shown that the acute toxicity of white pepper fruit when administered orally in laboratory animals is characterized by an LD50 value in the range of 1500–2000 mg/kg body weight, which is classified as moderately low toxicity. When used topically at recommended doses, the preparation is well tolerated; allergic reactions and irritations occur rarely and are usually associated with individual sensitivity. Upon overdose, irritation of mucous membranes and skin reactions are possible. Data on chronic toxicity are limited, but with long-term use, it is recommended to adhere to the recommended dosages and consider individual tolerance. The safety of use in pregnant women and children under 12 years of age has not been sufficiently studied, therefore their use in these groups should be carried out with caution and under the supervision of a specialist.

Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...

Pharmacodynamics — Fructus Piperis albi

The active components of white pepper fruit include alkaloids (piperine), essential oils, flavonoids, tannins, and organic acids, which determine a wide range of pharmacodynamic effects on different body systems. Piperine is the main biologically active substance and exerts a modulating effect on enzymatic systems, influencing the metabolism of drugs and the bioavailability of other substances.

The main pharmacological action is due to anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antispasmodic effects. The anti-inflammatory action is associated with the suppression of inflammatory mediators and modulation of the immune response through the regulation of cytokines and the activity of immune system cells. Antimicrobial activity is directed against a wide range of pathogens, including gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as some fungi.

Piperine affects the central and peripheral nervous system, exhibiting moderate analgesic and sedative effects through its influence on neurotransmitters and pain receptors. An improvement in microcirculation and vascular tone is also noted, which contributes to the acceleration of regenerative processes at the local level.

From the perspective of the digestive system, active components stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes and bile, helping to improve the digestion and absorption of nutrients. They act on the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, reducing spasms and improving motility.

Piperine has a modulating effect on the endocrine system, interacting with enzymes involved in hormone metabolism, which may have an indirect impact on metabolic processes in the body.

In dermatology, components of white pepper fruit exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to improve skin condition, reduce irritation, and protect cells from oxidative stress.

Pharmacodynamic effects are realized both systemically with oral administration and locally with external use. Molecular targets include enzymes regulating oxidative stress, neurotransmitter receptors, and immunomodulators.

References:
Wink, M. (2015). Modes of Action of Herbal Medicines and Plant Secondary Metabolites. Medicines, 2(3), 251–286. https://doi.org/10.3390/medici...
Li, G. Q., et al. (2019). Piperine: A Review of Its Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics and Safety. Planta Medica, 85(11-12), 857-869. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-0978...
Gupta, A., et al. (2018). Pharmacological properties of Piper nigrum Linn and piperine: A review. Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 6(4), 212-222.

Pharmacokinetics — Fructus Piperis albi

The active substances of white pepper fruit, mainly piperine, are well absorbed upon oral administration through the gastrointestinal tract. Absorption occurs primarily in the small intestine, where piperine interacts with enzymes of the intestinal mucosa, influencing the activity of metabolizing systems.

Distribution in the body is characterized by binding to plasma proteins and penetration into tissues, including the liver, kidneys, lungs, and skin. Piperine is capable of penetrating biological barriers, which determines its systemic action.

The metabolism of active components occurs mainly in the liver with the participation of cytochrome P450 enzymes, which affects their biotransformation and the formation of metabolites with varying activities. Metabolites are excreted in bile and urine.

With transdermal and topical application, absorption occurs through the skin, providing local therapeutic action with minimal systemic effect. With inhalation and mucosal administration, active substances interact with the tissues of the mucous membranes, providing rapid local bioavailability.

Interaction with the intestinal microflora has an additional effect on pharmacokinetics and metabolism, helping to improve the microbiota and overall functional activity of the gastrointestinal tract.

The overall elimination of active components occurs through the kidneys and intestines, with possible accumulation in case of dysfunction of these organs, which requires caution when used in patients with renal or hepatic insufficiency.

References:
D’Lima, L. R., & Anand, P. (2020). Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of piperine: a review. Phytomedicine, 68, 153173. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phym...
Zhao, J., et al. (2017). Metabolism of piperine and its pharmacokinetic properties. Current Drug Metabolism, 18(6), 554-562. https://doi.org/10.2174/138920...
Shoba, G., et al. (1998). Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers. Planta Medica, 64(4), 353-356. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2006...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Fructus Piperis albi

White pepper fruit contains a complex of bioactive substances, including the alkaloid piperine, essential oils, flavonoids, tannins, and organic acids, which collectively provide a multi-level pharmacological effect. Piperine, being the main active component, affects enzyme systems, including cyclooxygenases (COX) and lipoxygenases (LOX), inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which underlies the anti-inflammatory effect. Additionally, it modulates the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), influencing nerve impulse transmission and regulating the pain threshold.

Piperine participates in the regulation of NF-κB and MAPK signaling cascades, reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, which reduces the inflammatory response at the cellular level. An effect on the JAK/STAT pathway has also been noted, supporting the immunomodulatory effect. Molecular targets include macrophages, neutrophils, and endothelial cells, which helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

Essential oils and flavonoids provide an additional antioxidant effect, neutralizing free radicals and reducing damage to lipids and proteins of cell membranes. This helps protect skin cells and mucous membranes from oxidative damage and improves tissue regeneration.

Furthermore, components of white pepper fruit stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes and bile, helping to improve digestion and reduce spasms of the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. The influence on receptors and enzyme systems of the endocrine system suggests modulation of metabolic processes, although these mechanisms require further study.

References:
Li, G. Q., et al. (2019). Piperine: A Review of Its Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics and Safety. Planta Medica, 85(11-12), 857-869. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-0978...
Wink, M. (2015). Modes of Action of Herbal Medicines and Plant Secondary Metabolites. Medicines, 2(3), 251–286. https://doi.org/10.3390/medici...
Gupta, A., et al. (2018). Pharmacological properties of Piper nigrum Linn and piperine: A review. Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research, 6(4), 212-222.

Synergy — Fructus Piperis albi

White pepper fruit demonstrates pharmacological synergy with a number of other plant taxa and natural substances, which is confirmed by in vitro and in vivo data. The potentiation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity is particularly pronounced when combined with curcumin (Curcuma longa), which is associated with enhanced inhibition of NF-κB and modulation of the cytokine profile. This interaction allows for increased bioavailability of curcumin due to the inhibition of metabolic enzymes by piperine.

In combination with Zingiber officinale (ginger), piperine enhances the effects on digestion improvement and spasm reduction, which is due to an additive effect on the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and enzyme secretion. Furthermore, synergistic action with Ginkgo biloba is manifested in the enhancement of neuroprotective and vascular effects, including improved microcirculation and antioxidant protection.

Potentiation of antimicrobial activity is observed when combined with essential oils of Thymus vulgaris and Origanum vulgare, which is associated with the complex inhibition of the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. Mechanisms include simultaneous action on cell membranes and enzyme systems of microbes.

Thus, white pepper fruit acts as a modulator of the pharmacological effects of other plant components, providing a complex action at the level of systems, tissues, and cells.

References:
Shoba, G., et al. (1998). Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers. Planta Medica, 64(4), 353-356. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2006...
Aggarwal, B. B., et al. (2007). Curcumin: The Indian Solid Gold. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, 595, 1-75. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-...
Wang, Y., et al. (2019). Synergistic antimicrobial activity of essential oils combined with piperine against foodborne pathogens. Food Control, 103, 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.food...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Fructus Piperis albi

White pepper fruit has been traditionally used in various regions of Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia), as well as in parts of Africa and the islands of the Indian Ocean. In Indian Ayurvedic medicine, white pepper is used in the form of powders, decoctions, and infusions to stimulate digestion and relieve dyspeptic conditions. In Thai traditional medicine, it is used as a component of complex mixtures to restore energy balance and improve metabolism.

In China and the Far East, white pepper fruit was used to improve blood circulation and relieve muscle spasms. In Slavic folk medicine, including Russian and Ukrainian herbalism, white pepper was used less frequently, but in some areas it was used in compresses and rubs for rheumatic pains.

Historical sources indicate the use of white pepper in medicine at least from the 1st millennium BC, which is confirmed by archaeological finds and ancient texts such as the Indian Vedas and Arabic medical treatises. In European culture, pepper was initially valued as a spice and preservative, and also had the status of a symbol of wealth and power.

In the ethnocultural context, white pepper fruit was often associated with purification and protection. In the ritual practice of some peoples, it was used as an incense to cleanse space and attract good luck. In the traditions of Southeast Asian peoples, white pepper was considered a plant of power, contributing to the harmonization of physical and spiritual state.

Currently, ethnobotanical information on the use of the taxon "White pepper fruit" in folk, medical, or ritual traditions is widely confirmed and reflects the diversity of forms and contexts of use in different cultures of the world.