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Alligator pepper is an Aphrodisiac - 11 Health benefits

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Dr Pete Njoku, MD, FRCS, FRSM Eng.


     
          Alligator peppers are my favourite. They are extremely hot and spicy with a sweet after taste. They are commonly taken with kola nuts in parts of West Africa. 

Alligator pepper (Afromomum melegueta) is of the plant family Zingiberaceae and known as 'the grain of paradise',  as 'ose oji' in Igbo and 'ata ire' in yoruba languages. 

Its distinct very spicy, menthol flavour definitely an acquired taste and not recommended for children. 

Like chillies they cause a rush of blood to the brain, stimulate the release  of natural endorphins which makes you feel good and elevates your mood.

In this articles I will examine its proven health benefits.

1. Digestive Properties

The seeds aid easy digestion of food by stimulating the production of gastric juice and digestive enzymes, thereby preventing constipation and bloating.

2. Anti-oxidizing Properties

Alligator pepper seeds are an excellent source of phytonutrients such as terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, saponin and phenolic compound. 

Phytonutrients scavenge for free radicals and offer protections against viruses, allergens, microbes, platelet aggregation, tumours, ulcers and hepatotoxins (chemical liver damage) in the body. 

This suggests why it is commonly used in folk medicine for preventing and tackling intestinal problems.

3. Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders

The seeds extracts of the alligator pepper can be used for treating gastrointestinal disorders such as stomach pain, diarrhea, ulcer and intestinal worms.

4. Wound Healing

The seeds can be crushed and used for preparing concoctions for treating and healing wounds. 

Alligator pepper contains a high amount of tannin that is distinguished by its stringent property and as such it is very effective for healing wounds, treating burns and soothing inflamed mucous membrane.

5. Antimicrobial Properties

The seed extract has antimicrobial properties due to its constituents of phenolic compounds that are normally used as disinfectants. 

Studies reveal that aframomum melegueta extract is broad spectrum and as such has inhibitory effect on the growth of bacteria such as Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia etc.

6. Aphrodisiac Properties

Studies reveal that the alligator pepper is aphrodisiac in nature, increases libido in both sexes and thus can be used for stimulat.

7. Anti-inflammatory Properties

The seed has anti-inflammatory properties due to its constituent of gingerol that inhibits the leukotriene and prostaglandins synthesis. 

It therefore offers protection against cellular inflammation in the body.

8. Analgesic Properties

The aqueous extract of the plant is analgesic in nature and as such can be used for relieving and alleviating pains such as joint pain, toothache, stomach pain, arthritic pain and rheumatoid pain.

9. Dermatological Care

Alligator pepper can be used for preparing herbal remedy for treating infectious skin diseases such as measles, chickenpox and smallpox.

10. Stimulating Properties

Due to its stimulating properties and peppery pungent taste, the alligator pepper is normally chewed as a stimulant to keep the body alert. Very similar to the effects of caffeine.

11. Blood Cholesterol lowering

A scientific 2016 study, published in the Journal, Pathophysiology, showed that alligator pepper caused a significant reduction in bad cholesterol levels. 

This reduction in blood cholesterol is comparable to the effect of simvastatin. Simvastatin is a common drug currently in use for the treatment of high cholesterol level.

Bonus.

Alligator peppers are a diuretic. This helps in the control of blood pressure by flushing out excess sodium from the body.

There are not just a treat to accompany palm wine in the traditional african setting but have many health benefits as well.

Have you tried it and do you have it in your country.  Comment and share your experience with alligator pepper.

Thanks for being here and goodluck on your journey to optimal health and wellness. I invite you to check out other articles that may interest you using the search button at the top of the page. God-isLove.


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