From Ancient Spice to Advanced Science: Therapeutic, Nutraceutical and Nanotechnological Insights into the Fruits of Piper Longum Linn for Modern Drug Development

Ankita Bhatia,1 Jyoti Mehta,1 Ahmed Raza Hashmi,2 Mahendran Sekar,2,3 Anwesha Bandyopadhyay,4 Tarun Pal,4 BR Prashantha Kumar,5 Nur Najihah Izzati Mat Rani,3 Ling Shing Wong,6 Vinoth Kumarasamy7 1Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India; 2School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia; 3Faculty of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Royal College of Medicine Perak, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia; 4School of Bioengineering and Food Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences & Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India; 5Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, Karnataka, India; 6Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, INTI International University, Nilai, Malaysia; 7Department of Parasitology & Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaCorrespondence: Mahendran Sekar, Email [email protected] Vinoth Kumarasamy, Email [email protected]: Piper longum Linn (P. longum), a historically revered culinary spice and medicinal herb, has transitioned from its traditional roots in Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani medicine to modern biomedical and technological applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of its phytochemistry, therapeutic potential, and translational relevance in drug development. Rich in bioactive compounds such as piperine, piperlongumine, and piperlonguminine, P. longum exhibits significant antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities. Emerging studies also highlight its role as a bioenhancer, functional food ingredient, and sustainable source for nutraceuticals. Furthermore, advances in nanotechnology including liposomes, cubosomes, and transgelosomes, have enhanced its solubility, bioavailability, and targeted pharmacological efficacy. Industrial applications span nutraceuticals, phytopharmaceuticals, and green nanotechnology, underscoring its potential for commercialization. Clinical and preclinical studies validate its efficacy and safety within therapeutic ranges. By bridging ancient knowledge with modern innovations, this review highlights P. longum as a versatile candidate for integrative medicine and novel drug delivery strategies. Keywords: Piper longum Linn, phytochemistry, therapeutics, nutraceuticals, nanotechnology, drug delivery, industrial applications