Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is one of the most common spices worldwide, valued for both flavor and function. Beyond its culinary uses, black pepper contains a natural compound called piperine, which has been shown to enhance the bioavailability of certain nutrients and plant compounds, including curcumin. In supplements, black pepper extract is often included to improve absorption and effectiveness of other key ingredients.
Black pepper is often added to curcumin / turmeric to increase bio-availability and uptake.