Black pepper is a staple in our everyday life but most don’t think much about pepper. I guess that is why it is considered a staple. Black pepper is used at almost every meal and also used in most recipes. The qualities of black pepper are enhanced by heating so be sure to use it in recipes. What you probably didn’t know is that pepper is an excellent accent when used in sweet dishes such as cookies, ice cream and with cooked fruit.  As with all culinary herbs and spices, black pepper is good for your digestion -- stimulating the production of saliva and gastric juices.  Black pepper is mildly stimulating, and has antibacterial properties that ease bloating, constipation and nausea. Pepper has a warming effect on the body.

 Black Pepper also has an essential oil. The essential oil of black pepper has many of the same uses as ground black pepper as it stimulates the body, is good for nervous digestion, for the circulatory system, and for soothing indigestion. Black pepper oil is used externally in carrier oil only. So, the next time you pick up the pepper shaker take a moment to think about how good it is for your body and your health.  Check out the Pepper Milk recipe on our blog! >>Candace  Listen to Candace's podcast report - GO>>

My pick this week is the book The Secret Life of Dust by Hannah Holmes.  I promise you, you will never look at dust the same way! This book contains fascinating facts about dust and how dust affects you and the planet and where the dust on your coffee table might have come from. Dust is anything but boring! >>Candace