benefits of black pepper

Black pepper
1. Black pepper is the fruit of the black pepper plant from the Piperaceae family and is used as both a spice and a medicine. The chemical piperine, which is present in black pepper, causes the spiciness. It is native to Kerala, the southern state of India. Since ancient times, black pepper is one of the most widely traded spices in the world. It is not considered a seasonal plant and is therefore available throughout the year. When dried, this plan .....
Good for the Stomach
2. Pepper increases the hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach, thereby facilitating digestion. Proper digestion is essential to avoid diarrhea, constipation and colic. Pepper also helps to prevent the formation of intestinal gas, and when added to a persons diet, it can promote sweating and urination, which remove toxins from the body. Sweating removes toxins and cleans out the pores of any foreign bodies that may have lodged there, and it can .....
Weight Loss
3. The outer layer of peppercorn assists in the breakdown of fat cells. Therefore, peppery foods are a good way to help you shed weight naturally. When fat cells are broken down into their component parts, they are easily processed by the body and applied to other, more healthy processes and enzymatic reactions, rather than simply sitting on your body and making you look overweight. .....
Skin Health
4. Pepper helps to cure Vitiligo, which is a skin disease that causes some areas of skin to lose its normal pigmentation and turn white. According to researchers in London, the piperine content of pepper can stimulate the skin to produce pigment. Topical treatment of piperine combined with ultra violet light therapy is much better than the other harsher, more chemicallybased treatments for vitiligo. It also reduces the chances of skin cancer due to .....
Respiratory Relief
5. In Ayurvedic practices, pepper is added to tonics for colds and coughs. Pepper also provides relief from sinusitis and nasal congestion. It has an expectorant property that helps to break up the mucus and phlegm depositions in the respiratory tract, and its natural irritant quality helps you to expel these loosened material through the act of sneezing or coughing, which eliminates the material from the body and helps you to heal from whatever inf .....
Antibacterial Quality
6. The antibacterial property of black pepper helps to fight against infections and insect bites. Pepper added to the diet helps to keep your arteries clean by acting in a similar way to fiber and scraping excess cholesterol from the walls, thereby helping to reduce atherosclerosis, the condition highly responsible for heart attacks and strokes. .....
Antioxidant Potential
7. An antioxidant like pepper can prevent or repair the damage caused by the free radicals and thus help to prevent cancer, cardiovascular diseases and liver problems. Free radicals are the byproducts of cellular metabolism that attack healthy cells and cause their DNA to mutate into cancerous cells. Antioxidants like black pepper neutralize these harmful compounds and protect your system from many conditions, even premature aging symptoms like wrin .....
Enhances Bioavailability
8. Black pepper helps in transporting the benefits of other herbs to different parts of body, maximizing the efficiency of the other health foods that we consume. That is why adding it to foods not only makes them taste delicious, but also helps make those nutrients more available and accessible to our system. .....
Cognitive Impairment and Neurological Health
9. Piperine, one of the key components of black pepper, has been shown in numerous studies to reduce memory impairment and cognitive malfunction. Chemical pathways in the brain appear to be stimulated by this organic compound, so early research demonstrates the possibility for pepper to benefit Alzheimers patients and those that are suffering from dementia and other agerelated or free radicalrelated malfunctions in cognition. .....
Peptic Ulcers
10. A number of studies have shown that black pepper may have beneficial effects on gastric mucosal damage and peptic ulcers, due to its antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. More research is still being done on this aspect of black pepper health effects. .....
Asthma and Whooping Cough
11. Pepper is a good treatment for respiratory conditions like due to its properties as an expectorant, as well as its strong antiinflammatory properties. Preparing grounded pepper powder at home is better than buying readymade pepper powder. .....
Ayurvedic medicine
12. According to Ayurvedic medicine, black pepper also helps to prevent earaches and gangrene. It is also good for conditions of hernia, hoarseness and insect bites. It is also commonly used to treat conditions of tooth decay and toothache. In ancient times, pepper was also administered to treat vision problems. .....
A Word of Warning
13. Pepper may cause sneezing. Patients who have undergone abdominal surgery should not add excessive pepper to their diet because it can have an irritating effect on the intestines. It is also not good for people with ulcers. Black pepper should not be taken in high concentrations, and if you show signs of an allergic reaction, discontinue its use and consult a doctor! .....
Helps prevent cancer
14. Black pepper was found to prevent the development of breast cancer tumors. They found that the piperine content of black pepper plays a key role in preventing cancers. It further stated that when combined with turmeric its anticancer properties are heightened. Apart from the piperine, black pepper also contains Vitamin C, Vitamin A, flavonoids, carotenes and other antioxidants that help remove harmful free radicals and protect the body from cance .....
Helps in digestion
15. The piperine content of black pepper makes it a great digestive. It stimulates the taste buds to signal the stomach toproducemorehydrochloric acid. This acid is essential to digest proteins and other foods in the stomach, which when left undigestedcauseflatulence, indigestion,diarrhoea,constipationandacidity. The excess hydrochloric acid secreted helps in preventing these conditions. .....
Relieves gas
16. Known for its carminative properties (a substance that prevents the formation of gas) black pepper is great to relieve discomfort caused due to flatulence and colicky pain. Adding pepper to your meals instead ofchili powder will help relieve flatulence. .....
Can give you clear skin
17. Apart from a great way to help you sweat and release all the toxins from your skin, it acts a great exfoliant. Pepper when crushed and added to a face scrub, helps slough off dead skin, stimulates circulation and helps deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the skin. The antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties help keep the skin safe from infections like acne. .....
Beats dandruff
18. Black pepper is the best treatment. Add a teaspoonful of crushed pepper to a bowl of curd and apply it on your scalp, leaving it on for 30 minutes or so. Wash off with water. Do not use shampoo. If you want, you can shampoo the next day, as this will give the mixture ample time to work on the dandruff. Remember not to overdo the pepper as excess will make your scalp burn, causing extreme discomfort. .....
Clears up a stuffy nose and relieves cough
19. Due to its antibacterial properties, black pepper is a very effective natural remedy to cure colds and coughs. Its warm, spicy flavour also helps loosen phlegm and relieve a stuffy nose. Try sprinkling freshly ground pepper on hot soup or rasam. It will immediatelyloosen up the phlegm and help you breathe easier. (Also read: Healthy recipe for black pepper and garlic rasam) .....
Helps people with anorexia
20. Black pepper is known to improve digestion and stimulate the taste buds. Because of this property, it is a great natural remedy for people with anorexia (a condition where the person does not eat) by helping them regain their appetite. Adding a little pepper to their food, will go a long way in resolving anorexia. .....
Helps the body use nutrients more efficiently
21. Black pepper is known to have properties that help enhance bioavailability. This means that it helps in the proper transport and absorption of nutrients from food. This property also helps drugs work more efficiently. .....
Is a natural antidepressant
22. Black pepper increases the cognitivefunctionof the brain and helps beat depression. It was also found that pepper eaten on a regular basis helps the brain function properly. Add it to your daily meal, or eat it as seasoning on a salad. Pepper in any form can help make you smarter and less depressed. .....
Black pepper is one of the most common spices
23. Black pepper is one of the most common spices used in different cuisines around the world. It is used in both whole and grounded form. It contains potassium, magnesium, iron, vitamin K and vitamin C. Apart from a strong flavour, it also has certain health benefits which must be taken into account. .....
The rich contents of black pepper
24. This seemingly small black spice is packed with an array of rich properties that can help you improve your health. Essential nutrients such as manganese, potassium, iron, dietary fiber and vitamins C and K can be found in black pepper. It has antibacterial, antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties which make it an amazing medicinal spice. Apart from helping in treating cough and cold and other diseases like cancer and intestinal problems, addi .....
Antibiotic properties
25. Black pepper has natural antibiotic characteristics owing to its Vitamin C content. They curb harmful free radical reactions. This is one of the prime uses of black pepper. Pepper became an important spice that catalyzed much of the spice trade. This not only led to exploration of many undiscovered lands, but also to the development of major merchant cities in Europe and the Middle East. .....
Gastro diseases
26. Black pepper eases the digestion process by secreting hydrochloric acid as an alert before food consumption and hence, helps in prevention of diseases related to the intestine and stomach. .....
Bacterial infections
27. Black pepper helps in treating diseases caused due to bacteria. The influence of black pepper has been observed while treating conditions like constipation, diarrhoea and colic. .....
Cough and cold
28. Surprisingly, the spice is also acts as a remedy for cough and cold. The antibacterial properties of black pepper are used for treating respiratory disorders. black pepper actually has healthful properties. Of all of the benefits of this spice, it is its ability to enhance the function of the digestive tract that makes it a good reason to put it in the dishes you cook. .....
Flu and congestion
29. Black pepper eases congestion. The freeradical scavenging activity of black pepper helps in treatment of cancer. It slows down the activity of some types of cancer. Black pepper finds its application in skin cancer. .....
Free radical suspension
30. It generates free radical killing action that curbs the cancerous activities in the body. The reason that pepper was so cherished is that it served important culinary purposes. Not only could its pungency spice up otherwise bland foods, but it could disguise a foods lack of freshness, the latter being an especially important quality in the times before efficient means of preservation. .....
Metabolism
31. Black pepper helps in boosting metabolism in the body. It burns unwanted calories and helps in reducing belly fat. Black pepper is very effective against obesity. Daily consumption of black pepper helps in reducing stomach related problems. .....
Dental health
32. Black pepper is helpful in improving dental health. It helps fight tooth decay and provides quick relief from tooth ache. The medicinal benefits of black pepper reach beyond its taste and flavoring of your foods. .....
Skin treatment
33. The use of black pepper in diet helps to improve skin condition and promotes weight loss. Black pepper finds it application in Ayurveda also. If you have not tried black pepper in the daily diet, go for it. .....
Antidepressant
34. Black pepper is a natural antidepressant. Piperine present in black pepper acts as an antidepressant and stimulates the nervous system. As a result of that, the cognitive capacity is improved. Black pepper has demonstrated impressive antioxidant and antibacterial effectsyet another way in which this wonderful seasoning promotes the health of the digestive tract. .....
Vitiligo Cure
35. Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes skin to lose its pigmentation in certain areas. When your skin loses its natural pigmentation, it turns white. There are many different treatments for this skin disease but a majority of them involve use of harsh chemicals. Many patients are now turning to black pepper as a cure. .....
Pigmentation problem in skin
36. According to some researchers from London, Piperine found in black pepper stimulates production of pigmentation in the skin, providing a safe, natural alternative to chemicalbased treatments. Black pepper is the most pungent and flavorful of all types of peppers and it is available as whole or cracked peppercorns or ground into powder. .....
Goodbye wrinkles
37. The high amount of antioxidants present in black pepper helps your skin by protecting it against symptoms of premature ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots. Instead of buying expensive creams and serums that promise to rejuvenate your skin, add black pepper to your daily diet and see its miraculous effect on your skin. .....
Cancer Prevention
38. Black pepper is a wellknown deterrent against skin cancer that is caused by excessive exposure to harmful UV radiation. black pepper help you derive the most benefit from your food, the outer layer of the peppercorn stimulates the breakdown of fat cells, keeping you slim while giving you energy to burn. .....
Exfoliation
39. Crush some black pepper and make a scrub to remove dead skin cells and exfoliate your skin. This will help remove toxins from your skin, leaving it soft and radiant. Black pepper also helps promote blood circulation and provides more oxygen and nutrients to your skin. Its antiinflammatory and antibacterial properties help prevent acne. .....
Dandruff Treatment
40. Black pepper is the best treatment. Add a teaspoonful of crushed pepper to a bowl of curd and apply it on your scalp, leaving it on for 30 minutes or so. Wash off with water. Do not use shampoo. If you want, you can shampoo the next day, as this will give the mixture ample time to work on the dandruff. Remember not to overdo the pepper as excess will make your scalp burn, causing extreme discomfort. .....
Hair Revitalization
41. Mixture a teaspoonful of ground black pepper and lemon seeds and apply to your scalp and hair. This will revitalize your hair, making it shiny, lustrous and soft. Leave the mixture on for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse off with cold water. .....
How to select
42. Black pepper can be found in crushed and whole varieties. Whole peppercorns are better as they are mostly adulterated. While purchasing whole peppercorns, always make sure that they are small, heavy and free of blemishes. .....
To store black pepper
43. To store black pepper, keep them in a glass jar that is wellsealed and airtight and store the container in a cool and dry place. Ground pepper can be stored for about 3 months while whole peppercorns can be stored for an indefinite amount of time. Freezing pepper is also a great storage method although the taste may change a little and become stronger. .....
Improve Digestion and Promote Intestinal Health
44. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)stimulates the taste buds in such a way that an alert is sent to to the stomach to increase hydrochloric acid secretion, thereby improving digestion. Hydrochloric acid is necessary for the digestion of proteins and other food components in the stomach. .....
Description
45. Black pepper comes from the berries of the pepper plant. Black pepper, green pepper and white peppercorns are actually the same fruit (Piper nigrum); the difference in their color is a reflection of varying stages of development and processing methods. .....
Nutritional Profile
46. Black pepper is an excellent source of manganese and vitamin K, a very good source of copper and dietary fiber, and a good source of iron, chromium, and calcium. Black pepper is an excellent source of manganese and vitamin K, a very good source of copper and dietary fiber, and a good source of iron, chromium, and calcium. .....
InDepth Nutritional Profile
47. An indepth nutritional profile for Black pepper is also available. This profile includes information on a full array of nutrients, including carbohydrates, sugar, soluble and insoluble fiber, sodium, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids and more. .....
Culinary uses
48. Black pepper is one of the most versatile spices used in virtually in all kinds of savory cooking. In order to keep their fragrance and flavor intact, they are generally ground just before preparing dishes and added at the last minutes in the recipes (since prolonged cooking results in evaporation of essential oils). .....
Safety profile
49. Consumption of dishes prepared with excessive amounts of black pepper can cause gastrointestinal irritation, and bleeding from the ulcer sites. Therefore, recipes prepared with pepper should be avoided in individuals with stomach ulcers, ulcerative colitis, and diverticulitis conditions. (Medical disclaimer). .....
Black pepper may help in weight loss
50. The outer layer of the peppercorn contains substances that boost fat metabolism. Adding black pepper to foods may help in the treatment of obesity. Black pepper is a natural antibiotic and a great dietary source of fiber, potassium, iron and vitamins C and K. .....
Black pepper improves bioavailability
51. Eating black pepper promotes the absorption of nutrients to all the tissues of the body, improving overall health. piperine, is an effective treatment for vitiligo, a skin disease that causes areas of the skin to lose their pigment. Pepper is also believed to decrease susceptibility to skin cancers caused by excess ultraviolet radiation. .....
Black pepper is a natural antidepressant
52. Black pepper has been the investigated for its antidepressant properties. Animal studies showed that treatment with black pepper improved cognitive function and stimulated the central nervous system. .....
Black pepper is a powerful antioxidant
53. Pepper has a rich natural content of phenols, organic chemicals that have strong antioxidant properties. Adding black pepper to foods may help in the treatment of obesity. black pepper from the pepper vine that can grow at least thirty feet tall in the stifling climates of the tropical parts of the world. .....
Black pepper reduces inflammation
54. Animal research has revealed that peppers active ingredient, piperine, has natural antiinflammatory effects. black pepper may be consumed safely in moderate quantities. Adding pepper, along with other potent medicinal spices like turmeric, cumin, fenugreek, cinnamon and ginger is a great natural way to enhance overall body health. .....
Black Pepper Basics
55. A teaspoon of ground black pepper contains 6 calories and only a trace amount of fat. That same teaspoon of ground black pepper also supplies 0.6 gram of fiber. That doesnt sound like much, but in that tiny amount of food you get 3 percent of the minimum of 20 grams of fiber you need each day, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. A teaspoon of ground black pepper contains 3.8 micrograms of vitamin K, a nutrient that helps your blood .....
Black Pepper for Absorption
56. When you eat black pepper, your body might be able to absorb all of those vitamins and minerals more easily when you eat black pepper. According to Murray and Pizzorno, black pepper contains a compound called piperine. Piperine can help your body absorb certain nutrients, such as B vitamins, selenium and betacarotene, more efficiently and in larger doses. .....
Additional Health Benefits
57. The piperine in black pepper can boost the livers ability to detoxify your body, Murray and Pizzorno note. Black pepper might also aid in normal digestion. According to Murray and Pizzorno, the spiciness of black pepper encourages your body to produce more stomach acid, which makes digestion more efficient. A 2010 article published in Nutrition Today, reports that black pepper has antimicrobial, antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties, as wel .....
Iron
58. Used to build redblood cells and for repairing worn out cells. Manganese helps to ensure healthy bone structure, bone metabolism and helping in building essential enzymes for building bones and also to regulate thyroid functions. While Iron is necessary for the production of Hemoglobin. .....
Potassium
59. For regulation of heart beat and maintaining blood pressure. To cure urinary and anal irritations and burning sensations, consume a mixture of powdered pepper grains, jaggery and curd rice. .....
Calcium
60. For strong bones and teeth. To reduce Toothache, take wellpowdered pepper and massage the gums with the powder, which will induce salivation. black pepper actually had monetary value. It was used in the market place and in other places in place of money. .....
Manganese
61. For bonebuilding and metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Black pepper is also used in various other home remedy preparations. It has diuretic (promotes urination) properties. It induces urination, which is good when the kidneys are not functioning properly. .....
Magnesium
62. For proper nerve and muscle functioning and conversion of blood sugar to energy. Black pepper is a good source of manganese and iron. Manganese helps to ensure healthy bone structure, bone metabolism and helping in building essential enzymes for building bones and also to regulate thyroid functions. While Iron is necessary for the production of Hemoglobin. .....
Zinc
63. Eliminates cholesterol deposits and is important for growth. Black pepper is proven to be a good antioxidant and has antibacterial effects. It also helps to reduce the damage caused by a diet full of saturated fats. .....
Chromium
64. Helps metabolize fats and carbohydrates in the body. . One of the very important compounds found in pepper is piperine, which acts as an antioxidant compound, and nullifies the effect of any excess oxygen molecules present in our bodies. .....
Vitamin K
65. Consuming kali mirch also helps you reach your recommended daily vitamin K intake. Each 2tablespoon serving of kali mirch contains 23 micrograms of vitamin K, which is 26 percent of the Institute of Medicines recommended daily intake for women and 18 percent for men. The main role of vitamin K involves blood coagulation it allows your body to form blood clots needed to prevent or stop bleeding. .....
Vitamin C & Vitamin A
66. For healthy mucous membranes, essential for proper night vision and promotes skeletal growth. When foods are eaten with black pepper, the body is able to absorb valuable vitamins and nutrients from the food much easier. .....
Niacin and Riboflavin
67. Regular functioning of tissues and enables conversion of carbohydrates to energy & Releasing energy to cells and enables break down of fats. It stimulates the appetite and has been used to treat anorexics and people with eating disorders. .....
Pyrodoxine & Thiamine
68. Prevents water retention and enables conversion of carbohydrates to energy & Growth and development of skeletal structure, promotes digestion. Black pepper is diaphoretic (promotes sweating). Black pepper induces sweating, which consequently cools down the body and relieves feverish symptoms. .....
Blood Pressure
69. Black pepper has major compounds that regulate blood pressure levels in our bodies. It is also rich in vitamin C which helps prevent hypertension by increasing the excretion of lead from our bodies. The high levels of essential minerals like potassium, calcium and iron in black pepper are blood pressure lowering compounds. The major underlying cause of high blood pressure can be attributed to very high levels of sodium in the body. Black pepper c .....
Brain Food
70. Black pepper contain antidepression properties that can help you cheer up. Research also shows how black pepper is very effective in proper brain function, cognitive function and stimulates central nervous system. Additionally, piperine also helps increase endorphins in the brain. .....
Heart Disease
71. Black pepper may also help regulate blood cholesterol and suppressing bad cholesterol which eventually ends up clogging arteries surrounding the heart, thereby causing cardiovascular problems. Sprinkle a dash of ground black pepper to your fresh salad for a healthy wellfunctioning heart. .....
Cooling the Body
72. You can beat the summer heat by adding hot spices including black pepper to your diet. Since black pepper is a hot spice, it helps cool the body by increasing blood circulation and also by inducing sweating which releases the excessive heat from our bodies. Black pepper also helps to rapidly raise your body temperature then lower it at intervals and this eventually cools down your internal body temperature. .....
Native Region
73. India and Indonesia are the major producers of black pepper in the world. It is also grown in Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, China and Brazil.Tropical regions are considered favorable for its growth. Pepper or Kali Mirch belongs to the Piperaceae family. Chili pepper, jalapeno pepper, bell pepper, cayenne pepper, etc. fall under the genus Capsicum. .....
Healing Properties
74. Pepper (Kali Mirch) has carminative, analgesic, antiinflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiseptic, laxative and diuretic properties. Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals in the body and enhance the action of other antioxtants such as catalase, glutathione, vitamin C, vitamin E, etc. .....
Precautions
75. Those who are about to have an abdominal surgery are suggested to avoid pepper or Kali Mirch for a few weeks because it tends to cause irritation in the intestines. Besides, excessive use of this spice can stimulate the kidneys. .....
Enhancing Nutrient Absorption
76. Piperine also may be more effective at increasing absorption of nutrients. This is because, unlike drugs, the body recognizes nutrients and wants to use them, not eliminate them. In five different human studies, 5 mg of standardized piperine (Bioperine) was administered simultaneously with standard doses of the nutrients betacarotene, selenium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and coenzyme Q10. A control group received the nutritional supplements, but no p .....
How Effective is Peppering Food
77. If youre a heavy pepper user, you may come close to reaching the 5mg level of piperine found beneficial in the scientific studies. While researchers believe that piperine is most effective when combined with nutritional supplements in a concentrated dose, the evidence suggests that regular pepper applications may help promote healthy nutrient absorption. So peppers popularity may be more than pungency. .....
The Exceptional Alkaloid
78. Piperine is not harmful in high daily doses. These characteristics make piperine particularly suitable for its medicinal role: making drugs and nutrients more bioavailable by increasing absorption in the gut and slowing the rate at which drugs in particular are neutralized and eliminated. .....
Fiber
79. Kali mirch serves as a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber makes what you eat more filling by absorbing water in your digestive tract to physically fill your stomach. As a result, fiberrich foods tend to help stave off hunger between meals. Dietary fiber also helps prevent digestive disorders, such as constipation, and helps lower your risk of heart disease. Using 2 tablespoons of kali mirch in your cooking boosts your fiber intake by 3.5 grams, .....
Common Names
80. Black Pepper, Common Pepper, Gol Mirch, Maricha, Kara biber (Turkish), Poivre (French), Pfeffer (German). Black pepper isnt like salt that can make food less healthy if too much is added. Black pepper is a spice that has the potential to make food more beneficial when used in various recipes and as a table spice. .....
Uses of Pepper
81. Pepper benefits in getting rid of cold. To prepare this natural cure, add 24 black peppercorns (ground), ginger, crushed cloves and a few holy basil leaves in a cup of water and let the solution boil. Finally, mix some lemon juice and honey in the solution and drink it. Alternatively, you can add the abovementioned ingredients in your teawhile it boils. .....
Habitat
82. Pepper plant is native to India and it is found in the states of Kerala, Karnataka, Konkan and Assam. In South East Asia it is found in countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. Peppers are the fruits of the plant which are harvested, dried and sold in the market. These fruits are harvested during the months of December to April depending upon the climate surrounding the plant. .....
Antimicorbial properties
83. Studies on pepper extracts revealed that some of the compounds possess antibacterial properties against bacterial species such as Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus sphaericus, and Staphylococcus aureus in the Gram +ve category, and Klebsiella aerogenes and Chromobacterium violaceum in the Gram .....
Reduces intestinal gas
84. Black pepper provides a natural solution to the embarrassing problem of intestinal gas. The stimulation of hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach reduces the intestinal gas problems. .....
The pepper plant
85. The pepper plant is a tropical, perennial climbing vine with aerial roots, growing up to 4 meters in height on the supporting trees or poles. The plant consists of wide, glossy, green leaves that are grown in alternate manner on the stem and bears dense spikes of white flowers. The berries are green when unripe and turn red as they mature. .....
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