Shillong, Dec 7: In the mist-kissed hills of Meghalaya, a spice long shrouded in tradition has unveiled a fiery new identity. Farmers believed they were cultivating a variant of the familiar Piper longum, or long pepper, but groundbreaking research by the ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) has revealed something extraordinary: a unique species now named Piper peepuloides.
Unveiling a New Species
The journey to this discovery began in December 2023 when researchers from IISR explored the pepper vines in Kynrang, Pyndenwar, and Mawpud villages. Unlike the upright growth of Piper longum, this newly identified vine climbs elegantly, boasting distinct leaves and fruit structures. Through advanced analyses, including Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), researchers, led by Dr. Shivakumar M.S. and Dr. Maneesha S.R., confirmed Piper peepuloides as a species distinct from its cousin.
A Spice with Unique Chemistry
What sets Piper peepuloides apart is its chemical profile. While Piper longum is renowned for its piperine content, this wild pepper is a treasure trove of compounds like copaene, beta-caryophyllene, and beta-sesquiphellandrane. These compounds possess potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and therapeutic properties, making it a spice with immense medicinal potential.
Cultural and Economic Significance
Locally known as “wild pepper,” Piper peepuloides has been central to Khasi and Jaintia traditional medicine, used in remedies for severe cough and leprosy. At ₹800 per kilogram, it already commands a premium price in regional markets. Experts believe this discovery could pave the way for obtaining a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, boosting its global appeal and market value.
Empowering Meghalaya’s Farmers
The Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission (MFEC), which initiated this study, has been instrumental in promoting the crop. Since 2021, MFEC has collaborated with local research stations and farmers to develop cultivation packages, establish nurseries, and train over 100 farmers. Advisor and Chairman BK Sohliya highlighted a proposal to expand this initiative under an indigenous crop scheme, potentially benefiting many more farmers.
A Future of Global Recognition.
The discovery of Piper peepuloides underscores Meghalaya’s biodiversity and the value of its traditional knowledge. With optimized cultivation techniques, genetic studies, and value-added products, this pepper could become a global sensation, empowering local farmers and boosting the state’s economy.
The world of spices has a bold new contender—Piper peepuloides, the wild pepper from Meghalaya that’s set to make its mark on the global stage.
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