Piperine
Piperine is an active ingredient extracted from black pepper. It is responsible for the pungent taste of pepper. However, piperine not only has a flavoring function, but also a health function. In this article, you will find out what piperine can do for dogs and what you should look out for if you want to give it to your four-legged friend.
What is piperine and how does it work?
Piperine is an alkaloid found in the fruits of the pepper bush. It has a number of properties that may be of interest for the health of dogs:
- Piperine increases the bioavailability of other active ingredients. This means that it improves the absorption and utilization of certain substances in the body. This applies, for example, to curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and pain-relieving effects. If you give your dog turmeric, you should therefore always add some pepper or piperine to enhance the effect.
- Piperine has a thermogenic effect. This means that it increases the body temperature and stimulates the metabolism. This can help to burn fat and reduce weight in overweight dogs.
- Piperine has an antimicrobial effect. It can inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi and parasites and thus prevent or fight infections.
- Piperine has an immunomodulating effect. It can strengthen and balance the immune system and thus alleviate or prevent allergies, inflammation and autoimmune diseases.
What are the benefits of piperine for dogs?
Piperine can be helpful for various ailments or diseases in dogs:
- Digestive problems: piperine stimulates the production of stomach acid and bile, aiding the digestion of food. It can help with diarrhea, constipation, flatulence or inflammation of the stomach lining.
- Respiratory diseases: Piperine has an expectorant and bronchodilator effect and can therefore relieve coughs, colds or asthma.
- Joint diseases: Piperine enhances the effect of curcumin, which is used for osteoarthritis, arthritis or other joint inflammation. It can reduce pain, improve mobility and slow down the breakdown of cartilage.
- Cancer diseases: Piperine has an antitumor effect and can inhibit or even kill the growth of cancer cells. It can also increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
What are the disadvantages of piperine for dogs?
Piperine is a natural active ingredient that is generally well tolerated. However, there are some points you should consider before giving it to your dog:
- Dosage: piperine is very potent and should therefore only be given in small amounts. An overdose can lead to irritation of the mucous membranes, gastrointestinal complaints or allergic reactions. The recommended dosage is around 0.5 to 2 mg per kg of body weight per day. This corresponds to about a pinch of pepper or a pinch of piperine.
- Interactions: Piperine can strengthen or weaken the effect of other medicines or food supplements. This can lead to undesirable side effects or overdoses. If your dog is taking medication, you should therefore always consult your vet before giving him piperine.
- Contraindications: Piperine is not suitable for all dogs. It should not be given to dogs with stomach ulcers, blood clotting disorders, liver or kidney disease, pregnancy or breastfeeding. Caution is also advised with puppies or very old dogs.
Piperine is a versatile active ingredient that can promote the health of dogs. It can improve the absorption of other active ingredients such as curcumin and thus enhance the effect of turmeric. It also has its own effects that can help with various ailments or illnesses. However, piperine should only be given in small amounts and after consultation with the vet to avoid side effects or interactions.
If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.
Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊