Pepper, Black (Organic)

Black pepper oil is assumed to share the pungency of the spice. The heat of pepper comes from piperine, which is not volatile and does not pass over in distillation. The oil carries the aroma of the peppercorn without its bite.

01 · Origin

Piper nigrum is a woody climbing vine of the Piperaceae, native to the Western Ghats of southern India. The berries are picked unripe and dried to give black pepper. This oil is distilled in Sri Lanka from the fruits of certified organic vines.

02 · Chemistry

Limonene and beta-caryophyllene lead. Alpha- and beta-pinene and delta-3-carene follow. The sesquiterpene fraction gives the warm, woody base; the monoterpenes give the fresh top. Older oil can oxidise, so storage cool and well closed matters.

03 · In Practice

Fresh, spicy and dry, with a woody warmth on the drydown. A middle note. Massage blends, diffusion and natural perfumery, where it sharpens florals and spice accords. A drop or two is enough in a body oil. Blends with frankincense, sandalwood, orange, rosemary, ginger, lavender and clove.

General information: For external use only. Dilute before applying to skin. Keep away from heat and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.