The Peruvian Pepper Tree sometimes just known as the Pink pepper , reaches a height of 15 metres and grows wild from Mexico to Southern Chile.
It is not related to black pepper, but the dried, red, berry-like fruits are used in a similar way as a spice. The essential oil of ‘The Peruvian Pepper Tree has a sweeter character, the berries going well even in fruit sauces, vinaigrettes, and desserts. The berries are also used to prepare a traditional Peruvian alcoholic drink.
REPORTED ATTRIBUTES:
The Peruvian Pepper Tree Peppercorn is helpful for treating poor circulation, arthritis, respiratory ailments, digestive problems, infections, colds, ‘flu, and viral illnesses.
The oil is dominated by monterpenes and sesquiterpenes, with alpha-cadinol as one of the major oxygenated compounds. The oil has found a use in perfumery as it brings diffusivity, adds a creamy aspect, and blends well with musks.
BLENDS WELL WITH
Works well with all citrus oils, musky scents like Patchouli and Sandalwood and resinous aromas like Juniper.
HISTORY:
A resinous gum obtained from the bark has been used in folk medicine to treat digestive disorders. A purgative known as ‘American Mastic’ is obtained from the tree.