Pepper
Family Piperaceae. This woody vine grows to about 15 feet, contains vitamin K and minerals (including Iron, Magnesium and Potassium) and is the source of black pepper (the dried berry), white pepper (dried ripe berry with the out part removed) and pepper oil (obtained through steam distillation of the black pepper). Geography: Native to Southern India and cultivated in tropical countries worldwide.
Historical Uses
A source of antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits.
Stories & Legends
Discovered over 4000 years ago, pepper is believed to be the earliest known spice and the most heavilly traded in history. Though used today as an everyday product of the masses, in ancient times, the rich were the only ones who could afford to buy it.