Piperine (Black Pepper Extract 95%)
Also known as: BioPerine, black pepper extract 95% piperine, Piper nigrum extract, piperine 95%
The pungent alkaloid isolated from black pepper fruit, used in tiny amounts to raise the absorption of other ingredients rather than for its own effects. The classic human study showed that 20 mg piperine taken with 2 g curcumin produced far higher curcumin blood levels than curcumin alone. It is added to curcumin, CoQ10, and many multi-ingredient formulas, but the same mechanism means it can alter the absorption of medications.
Research summary
Piperine inhibits intestinal and hepatic glucuronidation and CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein activity, slowing the metabolism and efflux of co-ingested compounds.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of compound.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | 5–20 mg | 20 mg | — |
5 to 20 mg per day, taken together with the ingredient it is meant to enhance. The curcumin bioavailability study used 20 mg alongside curcumin. Higher amounts add pungency and GI irritation without clear extra benefit. Because it is so potent by weight, use a pre-diluted trituration or careful blending for content uniformity.
Standardization: 95% piperine
Source material: black pepper fruit extract
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Pungent and irritating in powders at more than a few milligrams per serving; fine in capsules and softgels.
Formulation notes
Enhances absorption of curcumin, CoQ10, beta-carotene, and others. Inhibits CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, so it can raise blood levels of some drugs; flag for label review whenever included.
- Notable drug interactions
Sources
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