Piper guineense (Uziza)

 Piper guineense leaf sometimes referred to as West African Black pepper or Ashanti pepper is a popular leaf in Nigeria’s Eastern region. It’s a medicinal herb with a long history of use in African traditional medicine. This leaf is used by almost every tribe in Nigeria and other African countries. This leaf is called Uziza in Igbo language and Iyere in Yoruba language.

The leaves and seeds are used for many popular dishes and recipes including 

Ofe Nsala

pepper soup

Banga soup

Afiaefere

Egusi soup

Ogbono soup

Ukwa

Because it is a hot spice with a unique flavor and aroma. It can also be used in other delicacies. 

Uziza leaves contain:

  • Protein
  • Dietary fiber
  • Alkaloids
  • Glycosides
  • Flavonoids
  • Essential oils
  • Tannins
  • Saponins
  • Phenols
This amazing leaf and the seeds can be used for so many things. Some of the medicinal values of Uziza include:





  • Fertility treatment
  • Anti-cancer
  • Treats intestinal disorders.
  • Lower cholesterol
  • Treat rheumatism
  • lowers blood sugar/good for diabetic
  • hypertension
  • lowers blood pressure/prevent
  • Aid postpartum recovery
  • Improve appetite
  • Treat dysentery/diarrhea
  • Ease indigestion
  • Natural insecticides/repels insects
  • Lose weight
  • Pain relieves
  • Treats constipation
  • Improves fertility especially ovulation
  • Relieves stomach pain


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