You might have noticed piperine or bioperine in the vitamin aisle or listed as an ingredient in  a supplement you’re already taking. But what exactly are these two? The answer may surprise you.

What is Bioperine? What is Piperine?

Bioperine and piperine are the same ingredient, black pepper extract. Yes. That’s the same black pepper you’ve been sprinkling on your food!

Piperine is the name of the actual nutrient and bioperine is the trademarked name. You will often see these terms used interchangeably. You may also run across BioPerine® which is a patented form from black pepper fruits (Piper nigrum) standardized to a minimum of 95% piperine and trademarked by Sabinsa Corp.

Many of us regularly add black pepper, the “King of Spices,” to our meals. It intensifies flavor and adds some serious zip, but did you know the heat you experience creates a biological reaction throughout your body? That’s due to the piperine content. Turns out when you ingest piperine, it spices up overall health too.  

Benefits of Bioperine and Bioavailability

Traditionally black pepper was used for gastrointestinal issues, but today bioperine is well-known for its ability to enhance the bioavailability of other nutrients, making these nutrient more absorbable.

Some nutrients and herbs are especially difficult for your body to absorb such as turmeric, curcumin and certain vitamins and minerals. Your body can only utilize a fraction of their potency and the rest is excreted. But when bioperine is added, it increases the amount your body can assimilate by 30, 40, 50 percent or more. The bottom line: Bioperine makes your supplements work harder.

What is Bioavailability?

According to the National Institute of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements, bioavailability is defined as “the amount of (a given nutrient) in food, medications, herbs, and supplements that are absorbed in the intestines and ultimately available for biological activity in your cells and tissues.” We’re just beginning to understand the importance of bioavailability as it relates to overall health and wellness.

Since nutritional supplements take longer to get into your bloodstream, bioavailability is especially important if supplements are part of your daily routine.

How Does Bioperine Work?

Bioperine kicks off a digestive process called thermogenesis which intensifies activity in your body. When you boost thermogenesis, it triggers a cycle where your body demands more nutrients. Without the added demand, your body would simply reject what it considers unneeded nutrients, but with the demand, the nutrients are utilized or even stored for future use.

Turmeric Curcumin with Bioperine

As mentioned above, turmeric curcumin is especially difficult for your body to absorb and taking too much can lead to other health issues. Recent research shows that bioperine can significantly improve the uptake of turmeric curcumin without having to increasing milligrams.

Bioperine, Piper Nigrum Extracts and Supplements

• Liquid extract. Piperine can be found with turmeric in a liquid extract form. Just add to any hot or cold beverage.
• Capsules. Bioperine by itself of blended with other nutrients.
• Tablets. Compressed powdered ingredients in a smooth-coated pill.
• Powder. Mix into your favorite food or drink.
• Black pepper essential oil. Blend with geranium or lavender for aromatherapy.

Best Times to Benefit from Bioavailability