Name: Black pepper Latin name: Piper nigrum Family: Piperaceae Parts Used: Fuit Taste: Pungent, spicy Energetics: Hot, dry Key actions: Alterative, hepatoprotective, circulatory & digestive stimulant Precautions/Contraindications: Black Pepper, known for its culinary uses, supports the digestive system and aids in food metabolism. What may surprise some is that Black pepper also supports the respiratory system and aids in protecting the body against oxidative damage.*