Abstract

Dr. Vishesh Duggal*, Dr. Omprakash Sharma and Dr. Naresh Garg

ABSTRACT

The dry fruit of Marich (Piper nigrum L.) is an ingredient of more than 3500 Ayurvedic formulations. Its bioavailability enhancing activity on accompanying ingredients and its imperative ‘pharmacological actions rationalize this. Piper nigrum has been proved to possess bioavailability-enhancing activity with various structurally and therapeutically diverse drugs. Various mechanisms responsible for the action are reviewed in this paper. Taking into consideration the exclusive principles behind Ayurvedic pharmaceutics; the significance of its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics as a part of a formulation is immense. It is possible to carry out the bioavailability study of an Ayurvedic formulation containing Marich using piperine as a marker. Various researchers have elaborated important its pharmacological actions viz anti-inflammatory, anti-metastatic, anti-per oxidative [cancer preventing], anti-oxidant, anti-depressant, anti-diarrheal actions. This supports the rationale of its being a part of most rejuvenating, anti-inflammatory, digestive, and anti-diarrheal Ayurvedic formulations.