Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Black pepper (Piper nigrum) has been traditionally used in various systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, to address digestive complaints, including belching (excessive burping), bloating, and indigestion. The main rationale behind its use is its carminative properties—meaning it is believed to help expel gas from the digestive tract, thus reducing discomfort. In Ayurvedic texts, black pepper is classified as a “deepana” (appetizer) and “pachana” (digestive aid), and it is commonly prescribed in small amounts to stimulate digestive fire (“agni”), which is thought to help in the breakdown and assimilation of food, thereby reducing symptoms like belching.

From a scientific perspective, there is limited direct evidence supporting black pepper specifically for belching. Some studies have shown that piperine, its active component, can stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes and increase gastrointestinal motility, which might theoretically help reduce excess gas and associated belching. However, most research focuses on general digestive enhancement rather than targeted relief of belching. Overall, while there is a solid traditional basis for its use in this context, robust clinical trials specifically addressing belching are lacking, so the evidence level remains modest.

More about black pepper
More about Belching

Other ingredients used for Belching

Other health conditions supported by black pepper

Products containing black pepper