1. Increases Bioavailability- Piperine inhibits certain liver enzymes (e.g.,
UDP-glucuronosyltransferase) responsible for metabolizing curcumin, thus
slowing its breakdown and prolonging its presence in the bloodstream.
Studies suggest that piperine can increase curcumin’s bioavailability by
as much as 2000%, making it significantly more effective at lower doses.
2. Improves Absorption- Piperine enhances intestinal absorption by increasing the permeability of
the intestinal lining. This ensures more curcumin enters the bloodstream
directly.
3. Inhibits Efflux Pumps- Piperine inhibits P-glycoprotein, a transporter protein in the gut that
expels curcumin back into the intestinal lumen. This allows more curcumin to
remain available for absorption.
4. Synergistic Effects-Piperine and curcumin together may have synergistic therapeutic effects,
particularly in combating inflammation, oxidative stress, and cancer
development.
