Thippili (Valmilagu)

Thippili (Piper longum Linn) also known as Indian long pepper or valmilagu is a climbing perennial plant that belongs to the pepper family (Piperaceae). It is native to the southern regions of India, specifically in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, and found growing in the wild or cultivated. The plant can reach a height of several meters, it has perennial woody stems, green leaves and small flowers that grow in spikes. The fruit is a drupe, which is long, thin and curved with a red color when ripe. The root and fruit of the plant are used for medicinal purposes. The root is used in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine to treat respiratory disorders, fever, and pain. The fruits are used as a spice in southern Indian cuisine for its pungent taste. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic properties. The plant is also considered to have potential antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.