PEPPER

Origin:  Western Asia

Preservative

Incorporate pepper into pickling brines or dry rubs for meats to aid in preservation.

Congestion Relief

Add pepper to hot teas or soups when suffering from colds to help clear congestion.

Pest Deterrent

Sprinkle ground pepper in areas where pests are entering the home or garden as a deterrent.

Natural Exfoliant

Mix ground pepper with honey and use as a facial scrub, but be cautious to avoid sensitive areas and open wounds.

Companion Planting

Plant black pepper near other crops to take advantage of its natural pest-repellent properties.

Infusions

Add whole peppercorns to olive oil or vinegar and let sit for a few weeks to infuse, then use in dressings or cooking.

DIY Skincare

For a body scrub, mix ground black pepper with sea salt and olive oil; use with caution and avoid sensitive areas.

Composting

Mix spent or stale black pepper into your compost pile to enrich the compost with organic material.

Weight Loss Support

Incorporating black pepper into a balanced diet may aid in managing weight, though it should be part of a comprehensive approach to health.